If you were a kid or teenager in the 1960s, there’s a good chance you rushed to the TV every Wednesday and Thursday night at 7:30 to catch the latest episode of Batman, the campy, colorful series featuring Adam West as the iconic superhero. One of the unforgettable faces of that series was none other than Catwoman, portrayed by Julie Newmar. Even though Newmar only appeared in 12 episodes of Batman between 1966 and 1967, her portrayal of the sultry, smart, and crafty villain left a lasting mark on pop culture. Now, at 90 years old, Julie Newmar’s legacy continues to thrive. Join us as we explore her extraordinary life, career, and the enduring appeal of the original Catwoman.
Julie Newmar: The Early Years and Entry into Showbiz
Julie Chalene Newmeyer was born on August 16, 1933, in Los Angeles, California, to a Swedish-French fashion designer mother and a father who was a professional football player and educator. From a young age, Julie was immersed in a world of performance. Standing at an impressive 5’11”, she quickly became known for her exceptional ballet talent. She performed with the Los Angeles Opera, captivating industry insiders who recognized her beauty and skill.
At just 15 years old, Julie began to catch the eye of Hollywood studios, including MGM and Universal. She appeared in several early uncredited roles, but it wasn’t until 1954 that she landed her first credited film role as Dorcas Gaylen in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. The film was a critical and commercial success, earning several Academy Award nominations.
Julie’s career didn’t stop at film. She ventured into Broadway, starring in Silk Stockings and Ziegfeld Follies. Her big break came when she landed the role of Stupefyin’ Jones in the 1956 musical Li’l Abner, which she reprised in the film adaptation. This role marked the beginning of her reputation as a stunning, unforgettable performer who could captivate an audience in just a few minutes on stage.
From Broadway to Hollywood: A Career in Transition
Julie Newmar’s versatility allowed her to transition seamlessly between the stage, television, and film. She didn’t just become a beloved figure in Hollywood; she became a cultural icon. During the early 1960s, she made memorable guest appearances on several popular TV shows like The Twilight Zone, The Defenders, and Route 66. She also starred in the Broadway musical The Marriage-Go-Round, and in 1964, she took on her first major TV role in My Living Doll.
Despite the intriguing premise of My Living Doll, the show failed to capture the audience’s attention and was canceled after just one season. However, Julie’s resilience in bouncing back from this setback paved the way for her legendary role as Catwoman in Batman.
Becoming Catwoman: The Role That Changed Everything
In 1966, Julie Newmar’s life took a dramatic turn when she was cast as Catwoman in Batman. Her portrayal of the character was nothing short of iconic. With her sultry voice, seductive moves, and sharp wit, she transformed Catwoman from a simple comic book villain into a character full of depth and allure. Her performance not only made Catwoman a fan favorite but also set the stage for how the character would be portrayed in future adaptations.
Julie’s Catwoman was not just a villain but a sophisticated and powerful woman who held her own against Batman. This role made her a household name and cemented her place in pop culture history. What’s truly remarkable is that although Julie only appeared in 12 episodes, her influence on the character was so profound that her version of Catwoman became the blueprint for later portrayals, including those by Michelle Pfeiffer and Anne Hathaway.
Life After Catwoman: Diversifying and Thriving
After her time as Catwoman, Julie Newmar continued to make her mark in Hollywood. She starred in films such as Mackenna’s Gold and The Maltese Bippy in the late 1960s. Additionally, she made guest appearances on a range of popular TV shows, including The Monkees, Star Trek, and Columbo. But it wasn’t just about acting for Julie; she sought to expand her career in other areas as well.
In the 1970s, Julie patented a line of pantyhose and bras called “Nudemar,” marketed as “nearly invisible.” She also ventured into real estate, building a fortune through savvy investments in Los Angeles properties.
But even as she moved into these new ventures, Julie didn’t abandon her love for acting. She appeared in TV movies like The Feminist and the Nerd and Fools, Females, and Fun, and she even reprised her role as Catwoman in animated films like Batman: Return of the Caped Crusaders (2016) and Batman vs. Two-Face (2017).
Love and Family: A Personal Life Worth Admiring
Julie Newmar’s personal life is just as fascinating as her professional career. She had a series of notable romantic relationships before marrying lawyer J. Holt Smith in 1977. Together, they had a son, John Jewl Smith, who was born with a hearing impairment and Down syndrome. Despite the challenges she faced as a mother to a special-needs child, Julie remained deeply committed to her son and became an advocate for special needs children.
Her marriage to Smith ended in divorce in 1984, but Julie continued to thrive both personally and professionally. Her passion for life and work was evident as she balanced raising her son, building a successful business, and pursuing her acting career.
Julie Newmar Today: A Timeless Icon
Now in her 90s, Julie Newmar is as vibrant as ever. She remains a passionate advocate for LGBT rights, a cause close to her heart due to her brother’s sexuality. Julie’s resilience and beauty continue to captivate everyone she meets, and her contributions to the entertainment industry remain influential.
Julie Newmar’s legacy as the original Catwoman will forever be etched in the hearts of fans. But beyond her iconic role, she is celebrated for her intelligence, grace, and strength. In every stage of her career, Julie has proven that talent, charisma, and hard work are the true keys to success.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Julie Newmar
Julie Newmar’s seven-decade career is a testament to her talent, versatility, and enduring appeal. From her unforgettable portrayal of Catwoman to her wide-ranging achievements in film, television, and business, Julie has shown the world that true stars shine bright no matter the stage. At 90, she remains an icon whose legacy continues to inspire generations of fans and performers alike.
