Perhaps best known as the creator of the Batmobile, George Barris was a legendary customizer who designed cars for films and television as well as for private customers. Barris, who was based in Los Angeles and Sacramento for most of his career, embodied and defined the custom scene in the 1960s. Born in Chicago, IL, he moved to Northern California as a child, moving to Los Angeles after World War II.
Barris and his brother Sam started customizing cars early, and eventually created Barris Kustom Industries together. The Batmobile was certainly his most well-known creation, and was sold at auction at Barrett-Jackson in 2013 for $4.62 million. He was also known for designing the Munster Koach, the Beverly Hillbillies car, and KITT.
But George Barris was equally known for his larger than life personality, and support for the custom car community. If you were in Southern California, attending a big vehicle event, George was often there, full of enthusiasm for the industry and the builders. He was working on new projects all the way until the end.
News of his passing was announced on Facebook by Barris' son Brett:
"Sorry to have to post that my father, legendary kustom car king George Barris, has moved to the bigger garage in the sky," Brett Barris wrote.
Our thoughts go out to his friends and family. His presence will be missed!