Eartha Kitt's Catwoman: Behind The Scenes Of Batman's Villain!

Did you know that one actress breathed such palpable life into a feline fatale that her performance remains an iconic touchstone in pop culture? Eartha Kitt's portrayal of Catwoman in the 1960s Batman TV series was nothing short of revolutionary, forever changing how villains could slink, purr, and scheme their way into our hearts.

While Julie Newmar initially purr-fected the role of Catwoman on the first two seasons of the Batman TV show, it was Eartha Kitt who clawed her way into the annals of television history during the show's final five episodes. She didnt just play Catwoman; she embodied her, becoming synonymous with the seductive and cunning villainess. Some would even argue that the 1960s Catwoman was as much of a formidable foe as the Joker or the Penguin, adding another layer of complexity to Batmans world.

Eartha Mae Keith, born on January 17, 1927, in North, South Carolina, to Annie Mae Keith, who was of Cherokee and African descent and worked on a cotton plantation, had a humble beginning. Information regarding her father remains unknown, and it's believed she was born out of wedlock. Her journey from a cotton plantation to the bright lights of Hollywood is a testament to her resilience and undeniable talent.

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The role of Catwoman wasn't just another gig for Kitt; it was a cultural statement. The show's producer, Charles Fitzsimons, recalled that executive producer Bill Dozier's decision to cast Kitt was considered "a very provocative idea." Some say that Julie Newmar herself recommended Eartha Kitt for the role, citing Kitt's distinctive purr as the perfect fit for the feline fatale. However, the social climate of the time, particularly the racial sensitivities in the southern United States, led to a downplaying of Catwoman's flirtatious interactions with Batman in the third season. Instead, there were different creative decisions like the exploration of a potential romance between Batman and Batgirl was considered.

Kitts Catwoman made her first appearance in the inaugural issue of DC Comics' Batman '66 comic book, titled "Riddler's Ruse." This cemented her place in the broader Batman universe, extending beyond the television screen. She became more than an actress portraying a role; she was Catwoman in the hearts and minds of fans.

Her portrayal was one of a seductive villainess who often captivated the Caped Crusader, wanting him as her partner in crime. Yet, her criminal nature always allowed Batman to see through her seductions, preventing him from compromising his duty. It was a dance of attraction and repulsion, a key element that made Catwoman such a compelling character. In one particularly memorable episode, the flirting between Batman and Catwoman reached new heights, set against the backdrop of a deadly trap where Batman narrowly avoids being drenched in sulfuric acid.

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While Julie Newmar and Lee Meriwether both brought their unique interpretations to the character, Eartha Kitt had something they didn't: a groundbreaking presence. As a biracial actress in a prominent role, Kitt broke barriers and challenged the norms of the time. Her casting was a bold move that resonated deeply with audiences and continues to inspire conversations about representation and diversity in media.

Eartha Kitt's impact extended far beyond her role as Catwoman. She was a celebrated singer, known for her highly distinctive singing style and her iconic recordings of "C'est Si Bon" and the holiday classic "Santa Baby." Her career thrived in nightclubs, theater productions like "Mrs. Louis Blues" (1958) and "Anna Lucasta" (1959), and numerous television appearances. Her performance as Catwoman was just one facet of a multifaceted and extraordinary career.

The 1960s Batman TV show remains a classic, and Catwoman's appearances, portrayed by three different actresses, are a significant part of its legacy. Lee Meriwether portrayed Catwoman in the 1966 spinoff movie, while Julie Newmar and Eartha Kitt brought the character to life on the small screen. In 2008, a reporter for the San Jose Mercury wrote, "Even as a preadolescent growing up in subarctic Rochester, N.Y., watching Eartha Kitts Catwoman taunt Adam Wests Batman, I always felt a little, um, hot." This sentiment captures the enduring appeal of Kitts portrayal a captivating blend of danger, seduction, and undeniable charisma.

Eartha Kitt passed away in 2008, but her legacy as a performer and cultural icon lives on. From her humble beginnings to her groundbreaking role as Catwoman, she left an indelible mark on the world. She wasnt just an actress; she was a force of nature, a true original who redefined what it meant to be a villain, a performer, and a star.

Even decades later, Eartha Kitt's Catwoman remains a vibrant and unforgettable part of Batman's rogues' gallery. Her unique blend of sensuality, wit, and cunning created a character that was both alluring and dangerous, a purr-fect villain who continues to captivate audiences.