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Actresses Who Have Portrayed Catwoman Over the Years

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

Julie Newmar in Batman
Julie Newmar enchants as the original Catwoman in Batman, setting the standard for the iconic role

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

Eartha Kitt in Batman
Eartha Kitt dazzles as Catwoman in Batman, with her sultry voice and magnetic presence

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 in Catwoman
Halle Berry shines as Catwoman in Catwoman, delivering a bold and dynamic performance

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

Anne Hathaway in The Dark Knight Rises
Anne Hathaway captivates as Catwoman in The Dark Knight Rises, blending elegance with cunning prowess

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

Zoë Kravitz in The Batman
Zoë Kravitz redefines Catwoman in The Batman, bringing a fierce and modern twist to the iconic character

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

Michelle Pfeiffer in Batman Returns
Michelle Pfeiffer mesmerizes as the iconic Catwoman in Batman Returns, delivering a purr-fectly unforgettable performance

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.

abubakarbilal
abubakarbilal
Abubakar is a writer and digital marketing expert. Who has founded multiple blogs and successful businesses in the fields of digital marketing, software development. A full-service digital media agency that partners with clients to boost their business outcomes.
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