May 15, 2024

First actress to play the Feline Fatale turns 87 today!

Julie Newmar, who was the first actress to portray Catwoman in a live-action venue, has another one of those birthdays today!

Born Julie Charlene Newmeyer in Los Angeles on 16 August 1933, she clearly made her impact when she slipped into the Lurex catsuit with the ears 54 years ago on Batman. Her impact was considerable, both with the audience and with the comics. Catwoman had been absent from the comics for 12 years before Ms. Newmar came along in March 1966. Later that year, the Feline Fatale resurfaced in the comics, where she has remained a constant presence.

Ms. Newmar’s appearances, like those of many other performers, have been curtailed due to Covid-19, and it is possible that her days of appearing at future conventions may be over with. We hope that is not the case. At any rate, we wish Julie Newmar all the best on this day, and may she have many more birthdays!