Six actresses have portrayed Catwoman in a live-action format, starting with the ridiculous 1960s Batman television series. So which was the top one? Who was the best Catwoman? Here they are in chronological order.
(RELATED: Spectacular Artwork of Michelle Pfeiffer as Catwoman)
Julie Newmar
Julie Newmar was the first actress to portray the character on the 1960s Batman TV series. Some might argue that because she was the first, she was the best. Indeed, 60 years later, and she has fans who would choose her who weren’t even alive during the entire run of the series.
Eartha Kitt
Eartha Kitt picked up the character on Batman after Newmar vacated it. And you’ll find fans of the original show who think she was the best one of all.
Lee Meriwether
For some reason, Hollywood decided the weird Batman TV series wasn’t enough. And in 1966, Batman: The Movie debuted. This time Lee Meriwether portrayed Batman’s feline femme fatale foe. She was beautiful and some might choose her as the best of all.
Michelle Pfeiffer
It took almost 30 years before audiences would see a live-action Catwoman again. And Michelle Pfeiffer’s version was a far cry from the three versions that came before her. Many fans of the 1960s series weren’t happy about it. But over time, Pfeiffer’s portrayal has gained appreciation. And now a lot of people like her version the best.
Halle Berry
Halle Berry portrayed the character in a 2004 movie of the same name. Few like the film. But did some people like Berry’s portrayal of the cat burglar?
Anne Hathaway
Anne Hathaway portrayed the character in The Dark Knight Rises (2012). Or, at least, she portrayed Selina Kyle. The character is never called Catwoman. (Incidentally, The Dark Knight Rises is the second best of the trilogy, with Batman Begins being the best. Contrary to what most people will try to tell you, The Dark Knight is the third best of the series.)
But I digress.
Hathaway’s version was the closest to a real-world version of Catwoman. On top of that, hers is the only live-action portrayal where she gets to go off and live happily ever after with Batman. Some might argue hers is the best version.
*****
So what do you think? Who was the best Catwoman?
Top Image: Michelle Pfeiffer as Catwoman in ‘Batman Returns’ (1992). Via IMDB.
Honorable mention goes to Adrienne Barbeau from Batman: The Animated Series. She was a rather sophisticated Catwoman – kind of mature and adult. Dry but not overly sassy. Walked the line well between good and bad. She’s like a libertarian 😉
I will allow it. Honorable mention goes to Barbeau. (used to see her in the morning when I’d walk my dog. Just FYI. Nice lady