It has been 20 years since Warner Bros. Pictures released the first solo Catwoman feature on July 23, 2004. Despite the fact that her alter ego was named Patience Phillips rather than Selina Kyle as in the comics, and the film was neither critically nor commercially successful, this Halle Berry-starring film became the highest-grossing female-led superhero film of all time until Wonder Woman was released in 2017.
Throughout her time in popular culture, Catwoman has had more than just nine identities. Selina Kyle, a comic book character, first appeared in 1940 as part of the DC Comics Batman series. Originally known as “The Cat,” the thief was invented by Bob Kane and Bill Fingers. Frank Miller reinterpreted Catwoman’s heritage in the 1980s, giving Selina a darker backstory.
Julie Newmar brought the antihero (who often swings hard into villain territory) to life in live-action on the Batman TV series in the 1960s, alongside Adam West as the eponymous crime fighter. Since then, Catwoman has featured in a number of films and television programs, notably Matt Reeves’ The Batman in 2022.
From Julie Newmar to Berry to Zoë Kravitz, take a look back at the performers who have portrayed live-action versions of fan-favorite comic character Catwoman.
Julie Newmar in Batman
Known for her glamorous portrayal, Julie Newmar was the original Catwoman in the classic 1960s television series, Batman. Her version was campy, stylish, and imbued with a playful charm that perfectly matched the show’s tone.
Eartha Kitt in Batman
Taking over the role from Newmar, Eartha Kitt brought a more sultry and dangerous edge to Catwoman. Her portrayal was darker and more mysterious, transforming the character into a femme fatale.
Halle Berry in Catwoman
Halle Berry starred in a standalone Catwoman film, aiming to give the character her own spotlight. While the film received mixed reviews, Berry’s portrayal was physically impressive and showcased her action-oriented abilities.
Anne Hathaway in The Dark Knight Rises
In Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight Rises, Anne Hathaway brought a grounded and athletic interpretation to Catwoman. Her Selina Kyle was a skilled thief with a moral compass, challenging the traditional villain archetype.
Zoë Kravitz in The Batman
The latest iteration of Catwoman is Zoë Kravitz in Matt Reeves’ The Batman. Her portrayal is gritty and grounded, focusing on Selina Kyle’s origins as a street-wise survivor. Kravitz’s Catwoman is a complex character with a strong sense of justice.
These actresses have contributed to the rich tapestry of Catwoman’s character, each adding their unique flair and interpretation to the iconic feline anti-heroine. From the campy charm of the 1960s to the gritty realism of modern cinema, Catwoman continues to captivate audiences and inspire new portrayals.
Michelle Pfeiffer in Batman Returns
Tim Burton’s Batman Returns introduced a more complex and tragic Catwoman with Michelle Pfeiffer. Her performance was both terrifying and sympathetic, as she brought depth and vulnerability to the character that resonated with audiences.