Julie Newmar has lived a life that could rival any nine lives attributed to a feline. The dancer-actress, best known for her iconic role as Batman's purr-fect nemesis, Catwoman, in the first two seasons of the beloved 1960s-era superhero series, has packed a lot into her 89 years. "I’ve had a remarkable life," Julie reveals in an exclusive chat with Closer. "It’s been a journey filled with surprises at every turn."
In fact, landing her role on Batman was a complete surprise, especially after working as a dancer and choreographer, starring in musicals like 1954’s Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, and winning a Tony Award for 1958’s Broadway production of The Marriage-Go-Round. "Originally, they wanted Suzanne Pleshette," the statuesque performer shares. "She’s smart, sassy, and stands at 5-foot-4. I was available, towering with an extra six inches to spare!"
Are You a Cat Person? Julie Spills the Beans
When asked if she’s a cat person in real life, Julie doesn’t hesitate. "Oh, absolutely! Like forever, I’ve been a cat person," she says with a laugh. "I have a very catlike personality. I’m meow-sical, I sip on purr-secco, and I drive a Furr-ari (when it's running, that is). But I’ve never owned a dog. Cats just resonate with me more."
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How Did Julie Win the Role on Batman?
Julie was in New York when the call came about the role of Catwoman on Batman. "I didn’t know much about the show and hadn’t read the comics," she admits. "But when my brother, visiting from Harvard with friends, heard about it, he was thrilled. Batman was a huge hit at Harvard; they would stop their studies and watch the show religiously. He literally pushed me out the door to audition for it."
Did Julie Know the Role Would Make Her a Legend?
Julie chuckles at the thought. "Of course not. You can feel good about a role when you're performing it. The people around you are supportive, the script is fantastic, and everything just clicks. The other actors—Adam West and Burt Ward—were incredible. It’s one of those magical moments where everything comes together seamlessly."
Who Was Julie’s Favorite on the Batman Set?
Julie fondly remembers Stanley Ralph Ross, the brilliant writer behind her episodes. "Great dialogue can make an actor," she says. "He wrote five of the six episodes I did. Each one was a winner. His writing was genius."
Another Role Julie Loved
Julie also cherished her role as Ultra Witch in the Saturday morning children’s show Monster Squad. "I wore the most dazzling costume," she recalls. "The other characters were brilliantly written and acted. Sometimes, these lesser shows are the hidden gems."
Did Julie Do Her Own Stunts on Batman?
Not a chance. "Cats are wise," Julie explains with a laugh. "They let others do the fighting for them. I was off to the side, filing my nails while the stuntmen were breaking their bones. Cats don’t get into unnecessary fights. That’s for lesser animals."
Favorite Catwoman After Julie?
"Michelle Pfeiffer, no doubt," Julie says. "She’s an incredible actress. She brought creativity and depth to the role that elevated it to new levels. She’s the best."
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Other Favorite Roles Julie Played
Playing the robot in My Living Doll stands out for Julie. "It was a challenging role," she explains. "It was my Shakespeare! It was a show-off part, a gift to any aspiring actor. It required long hours—I even slept on the set until the fire department kicked me off the company lot. But anything challenging is a feather in your cap."
What Does Julie Do for Fun Today?
Julie loves the internet and enjoys writing and thinking. "The immediate resource of ideas and people around the world is incredible," she says. "It’s a huge leap forward. I love where I am now because things move so quickly. It’s the epitome of my life."
Julie’s Memoir
Julie is working on a memoir. "It’s almost done," she shares. "It’s a memoir because who knows me better than myself? There are some witchy tales in there. I think people will find it interesting. It even surprised me."
Experiences from Her Book
Julie hints at a rich story from her time in Cuba with Errol Flynn. "It wasn’t tawdry, but maybe you could call it a sex show," she says with a laugh. "It’s too rich a story for Closer, so you’ll have to read my book to find out more. Writing it made me realize just how full of surprises my life has been."
What Is Julie Proudest Of?
"My son, John, has various handicaps," Julie shares. "He doesn’t talk, he’s deaf, and he doesn’t walk much, but he’s my guru. He makes me smarter, more open, free, and more giving to people. It’s unconditional love."
How Does Julie Stay Fit and Vibrant?
Julie doesn’t weigh herself or count calories. "I only exercise for pleasure," she says. "I let my body decide how to move because I’m 89. I’m still highly disciplined but have a fun streak. I subscribe to about 10 periodicals online. Everything is a gift now."
Julie’s Love for Gardening
"A true garden resolves human problems," Julie explains. "It affects you on a cellular level. It’s better than medicine, though it can be as expensive as a therapist if you crave perfection. Being in nature clears the mind. Its everchanging beauty is mesmerizing."
Julie’s Upcoming Milestone Birthday
Julie will celebrate her 90th birthday in August. "I feel fabulous!" she says. "I don’t think I’ve reached a richer level in my life than where I am right now. It’s profoundly rewarding and exciting. I’m very curious about the future."
