Batman: The Animated Seriesfeatured a litany of classic dialogue, with several memorable quotations being delivered by the Boy Wonder himself: Robin. DC’sBatman: The Animated Serieshas earned a timeless reputation for bringing the Dark Knight and his allies to life, with Robin, aka Dick Grayson, standing as one of the most beloved characters. Robin, introduced as Batman’s loyal sidekick, plays a vital role in adding youthful energy, wit, and a fresh perspective to the otherwise brooding world of Gotham.
Throughout the best Batman: The Animated Series episodes, Robin delivers some of the most memorable lines that not only reflect his growth as a crime-fighter, but also his unique personality and sense of humor. Though introduced later in the series, manyBatman: TAS episodes were aired out of order, meaning that Robin was a sporadic, if regular, feature. Nevertheless, the fearless sidekick proffered some of the show’s most memorable lines.
10 “Excuse Me For Having A Life”
Batman: TAS Season 3, Episode 18 “Old Wounds”
After arriving slightly later than his comrades in Batman: TAS “Old Wounds,” Robin is chastised by Batman, who comments, “you’re late.” Robin simply responds,“Excuse me for having a life.” This quote encapsulates the frustration that Dick Grayson often feels as a young adultbalancing the dual responsibilities of being Robin and maintaining a semblance of a normal life.
In “Old Wounds,” Robin expresses his irritation with Bruce Wayne for expecting him to always be on-call for crime-fighting. As a college student and young man trying to live his own life outside the Batcave, this quote highlights Robin’s desire to step out from under Batman’s shadow and assert his independence. The tone reveals Robin’s internal conflict: he wants to fight crime and uphold justice, but he also longs to experience normal milestones, like socializing with friends or focusing on his studies.
9 “We Were Playing Chicken With A Penguin”
Batman: TAS Season 1, Episode 55 “The Mechanic”
Skip to 2:52 for Robin’s quotation.
Robin’s sarcastic humor shines through in Batman: TAS “The Mechanic.” After narrowly escaping an attack from the Penguin’s armored vehicle, Batman and Robin visit a mechanic. Where Robin quips that they were “playing chicken with a penguin.” This line is a great example of Robin’s tendency to bring levity to the dark and dangerous world of Gotham. Where Batman often keeps his emotions in check, Robin counters with humor, providing a refreshing dynamic between the two.
Robin’s quick wit helps alleviate the tension that often comes with fighting crime, adding a layer of youthful irreverence to their partnership. In many ways, this quote represents Robin’s role as Batman’s foil – where Bruce broods, Dick quips. His humor doesn’t detract from the seriousness of their work; rather, it enhances their relationship by showcasing how they balance each other out.
8 “Even Scum Spend Christmas With Their Families”
Batman: TAS Season 1, Episode 2 “Christmas With The Joker”
In Batman: TAS “Christmas with the Joker,”Robin and Batman are trying to track down the Joker, who has escaped from Arkham Asylum on Christmas Eve. As Batman explains that Gotham’s most notorious criminal has escaped and needs to be watched on Christmas, Robin expresses doubt that the Joker would “make his move” on Christmas Eve, suggesting that “even scum spend Christmas with their families.”
This Batman: TAs line serves as a reminder of Robin’s lighter, more optimistic view of the world in comparison to Batman’s hardened and cynical outlook. While Batman is always expecting the worst, Robin is still able to maintain a sense of humor and hope, even in the face of Gotham’s darkest characters. It’s a small but telling moment that illustrates the fundamental difference in how Robin and Batman see the world.
7 “If I’d Spent More Time In That Immersion Tank, I’d Be Growing Gills.”
Batman: TAS Season 2, Episode 19 “Deep Freeze”
Skip to 1:50 for Robin’s quotation.
When Batman and Robin confront Mr. Freeze in Batman: TAS “Deep Freeze,” Robin is partly frozen by the Batman: TAS villain. After returning to the Batcave, Robin recovers, where he jokes,“If I’d spent more time in that immersion tank, I’d be growing gills.”Robin’s line here reflects his ability to lighten the mood, even in the aftermath of a potentially deadly situation.
By quipping about “growing gills,” Robin highlights his adaptability and endurance while simultaneously poking fun at the outlandish situations they constantly find themselves in as Gotham’s protectors. This Batman: The Animated Series quote is emblematic of the way Robin uses humor as a coping mechanism in dangerous situations. His remark brings a moment of levity and serves as a subtle acknowledgment of the strange and extraordinary circumstances that come with being Batman’s partner.
6 “Good Thing I Decided To Tag Along After All.”
Batman: TAS Season 2, Episode 15 “Second Chance”
In Batman: TAS “Second Chance,” Batman and Robin are investigating Two-Face. After Batman is captured by the duplicitous antagonist, Robin arrives heroically in the nick of time. Swinging into battle, Robin valiantly quips, “Good thing I decided to tag along after all.” This quotation exemplifies Robin’s self-assured confidence in his role as Batman’s partner.
Robin delivers this line with a smirk so infectious that the typically stoic Dark Knight responds in kind. It’s a satisfying moment where both heroes show precisely how much they rely on and respect each other. While Bruce may be reluctant to admit that he needs help, Robin’s persistence and ability to think on his feet make him indispensable. His comment, delivered with his signature blend of humor and confidence, underscores his increasing independence and competence as a crime-fighter.
5 “If I Knew It Was Going To Take This Long, I Would’ve Brought My Homework”
Batman: TAS Season 1, Episode 32 “Robin’s Reckoning Part 1”
When Batman and Robin are staking out a construction site, Robin laments the long wait for action. Robin jokes, “If I knew it was going to take this long, I would’ve brought my homework.” This line from Batman: TAS “Robin’s Reckoning Part 1”highlights the duality of Dick Grayson’s life as both a crime-fighter and a student. The quote perfectly captures Robin’s struggle to balance his responsibilities as a student with his duties as Batman’s partner.
This Batman: TAS line also reminds the audience that, despite his maturity and skill as Robin, Dick is still a teenager dealing with the everyday pressures of school. In “Robin’s Reckoning,” the tension between Robin and Batman becomes even more palpable as the young hero learns more about his own past and seeks justice for his parents. This line serves as an important reminder of his age before delving into his tragic backstory.
4 “Batman, Where Are You?”
Batman: TAS Season 1, Episode 41 “If You’re So Smart, Why Aren’t You Rich?”
Skip to 1:45 for Robin’s quotation.
Robin’s desperate cry for Batman in Batman: TAS “If You’re So Smart, Why Aren’t You Rich?” is one of the more revealing moments in the series. As the two heroes take on the Riddler’s mind-bending puzzles, there’s a moment where Robin finds himself in a perilous situation without Batman by his side. His shout – “Batman, where are you?” – is filled with genuine fear and uncertainty, showcasing that, despite Robin’s skills and confidence, he still relies on Batman, both as a mentor and a protector.
This Batman: TAS moment underscores the deep bond between the two characters. It’s a rare moment of vulnerability from Robin, who is usually depicted as more carefree and lighthearted. The quote highlights that, despite his growth as a crime-fighter, Robin still looks up to Batman and occasionally feels out of his depth in Gotham’s dangerous criminal underworld.
3 “Stuff Your Advice, Batman! You And Your Stone-Cold Heart!”
Batman: TAS Season 1, Episode 33 “Robin’s Reckoning Part 2”
Skip to 1:20 for Robin’s quote.
Robin’s quest for revenge culminates in Batman: TAS “Robin’s Reckoning Part 2,” when he finally tracks down the man who killed his family. Capturing the criminal, Robin prepares to throw him off a pier when Batman arrives. Trying to calm Robin, Batman advises that he shouldn’t let his emotions get the better of him. Robin defiantly responds“Stuff your advice, Batman! You and your stone-cold heart!”Robin’s powerful outburst reveals the depth of his frustration with Batman.
Robin has been consumed by a desire for vengeance and lashes out with this emotionally charged line, accusing Batman of being cold and unfeeling. It’s a pivotal moment in their relationship, as Robin challenges Batman’s emotionally distant approach to justice. This quote not only demonstrates Robin’s anger but also hints at his deeper emotional struggle to reconcile his personal pain with Batman’s strict moral code.
2 “And Here I Thought All You Dusted Was Furniture”
Batman: TAS Season 2, Episode 12 “The Lion And The Unicorn”
Skip to 1:46 for Robin’s quote.
Robin’s trademark humor shines once again in Batman: TAS “The Lion and The Unicorn.” After witnessing Alfred take down an enemy with surprising ease, Robin quips that he thought the butler’s expertise only extended to dusting furniture. This playful jab highlights Robin’s sense of humor and serves as a reminder of the deep respect and affection he has for Alfred.
Robin’s reply underscores the familial dynamics within Wayne Manor, where Alfred is not just a caretaker but a surrogate father figure for each of the Bat-family. This line also adds a touch of humor to the high-stakes action, reminding viewers that even in the midst of danger, Robin never loses his lightheartedness. His playful banter with Alfred is a refreshing change from the usual intensity of Gotham’s crime-fighting duo, further cementing Robin’s role as the heart of the Bat-family.
1 “You’re Only Human, You Do All One Man Can Do, More Than Any Man Is Expected To Do.”
Batman: TAS Season 1, Episode 49 “I Am The Night”
Skip to 3:15 for Robin’s quote.
In Batman: TAS “I Am The Night,” Robin delivers a heartfelt line to Bruce Wayne during one of his darkest moments. After a particularly grueling battle with the Jazzman leaves Commissioner Gordon hospitalized, Batman becomes consumed by guilt and self-doubt, questioning his effectiveness as Gotham’s protector. Robin, seeing his mentor in pain, offers this comforting reassurance,“You’re only human, you do all one man can do, more than any man is expected to do.”
This quote reflects the deep bond of trust and mutual respect between the two characters. Robin’s words also reveal his understanding of the emotional burden that comes with being Batman. Unlike his usual sarcastic or humorous remarks, this line is delivered with sincerity, showcasing Robin’s emotional maturity and empathy. This moment strengthens their partnership and humanizes Batman, reminding viewers that even the Dark Knight is fallible and vulnerable. Consequently, this is Robin’s best line from the entire Batman: The Animated Series.