Alfred Thaddeus Crane Pennyworth is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by DC Comics. The character first appears in Batman #16 (April-May 1943), and was created by writer Bob Kane and artist Jerry Robinson. Alfred serves as Batman’s (and Bruce Wayne's) tireless butler, assistant, confidante, and surrogate father figure. He has sometimes been called "Batman's batman." In the current DC Comics continuity, Alfred looked after Bruce Wayne following the death of his parents. Alfred also provides comic relief, as his sometimes sarcastic and cynical attitude often adds humor to dialogue occurring between himself and the obsessed Batman. Alfred is a vital part of the Batman mythos, and appears in most other media adaptations of the character.

The character of Alfred has been consistently popular over the years, having received a nomination for the R.A.C. "Squiddy" Award for Favorite Supporting Character in 1994 and for Best Character in 2001. He was also nominated for the Wizard Fan Award for Favorite Supporting Male Character in 1994.