Burt Ward

Burt Ward, best known for his role as Robin in the 1960s *Batman* television series, was a multi-talented individual with a strong athletic and intellectual background. As a teenager, he excelled in various sports, including wrestling, track, tennis, and golf, and was also skilled in martial arts. A gifted chess player and high achiever academically, he ranked in the top 3% of U.S. students in math and science tests at UCLA and was recognized as the world's fastest reader, with a reading speed of 30,000 words per minute and 90% comprehension. He was featured in the article "Will the Real Boy Wonder Please Stand Up?" and appeared on the TV show *Read Right*. With the help of his father, a prominent real estate broker in Beverly Hills, he became one of the youngest real estate agents in California and met producer Saul David, who connected him with a Hollywood agent. His first screen test was at 20th Century Fox, where he performed a martial arts demonstration for Adam West, including breaking a 1-inch pine board with his hand. He later earned a black belt in karate under All Korean champion Young Ik Suh. Burt was a close friend of Bruce Lee, and their first filmed fight scene was between the two. In October 2015, he was inducted into the International Karate and Kickboxing Hall of Fame. In 1966, he was cast as Robin in the *Batman* series for ABC, a role that made him a household name. The show was an instant success, and he and Adam West made numerous public appearances and were featured in major magazines, including the cover of *Life*. In 1994, Burt and his wife, Tracy Posner Ward, a philanthropist and daughter of former corporate raider Victor Posner, founded Gentle Giants Rescue and Adoptions after rescuing a Great Dane in distress. Horrified to learn that other dogs had been euthanized, they established a nonprofit rescue organization dedicated to saving and rehoming giant dog breeds. Located 50 miles east of Los Angeles, Gentle Giants has rescued and adopted more than 15,500 dogs of various breeds over 22 years. Through their care, feeding program, and all-natural Gentle Giants Dog Food, they have extended the lifespan of giant dog breeds from an average of 6 to 8 years to up to 27 years. The organization also produces and sells its dog food in over 1,250 stores in California and 339 Walmart Supercenters in several states, as well as through online retailers. Gentle Giants also offers wet dog food and premium dog supplements and treats. Burt Ward's journey from the Caped Crusader to the Canine Crusader reflects his lifelong commitment to both entertainment and animal welfare.