Julie Newmar is one of those timeless stars whose charm and elegance have left an indelible mark on pop culture. Known for her iconic role as the original Catwoman in the Batman TV series, Newmar’s career spans an impressive seven decades, showcasing her versatility as an actress, dancer, and businesswoman. But while her performance as Catwoman is undoubtedly unforgettable, there’s so much more to Julie Newmar than just that. Join us as we explore her fascinating life and career, from her early days in show business to her continuing impact today.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Julie Newmar was born Julie Chalene Newmeyer on August 16, 1933, in Los Angeles, California. Her background was as unique as her future career. Her mother, a Swedish-French fashion designer, and her father, a professional football player and physical education head at Los Angeles City College, laid the foundation for Julie’s future in the arts.
From a young age, Julie displayed a strong affinity for the arts, especially ballet. At just 15, she was already standing out with her graceful and statuesque physique. Standing at 5’11”, Julie was hard to miss, and her talent as a dancer caught the attention of industry insiders. She began performing with the LA Opera, which eventually led to an MGM contract and numerous roles in films during the early 1950s.
From the Silver Screen to Broadway
Julie’s entry into Hollywood wasn’t immediate fame, but rather a series of uncredited roles, such as in She’s Working Her Way Through College (1952) and Demetrius and the Gladiators (1954). However, her breakthrough came with her role as Dorcas Gaylen in the musical Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (1954). Though her role was minor, the film was a critical success, and it helped establish Newmar’s reputation as a striking beauty with considerable talent.
Julie soon transitioned to Broadway, where she starred in productions like Silk Stockings and Li’l Abner. Her role in Li’l Abner (1956) was a turning point, as her portrayal of Stupefyin’ Jones, a character known for her beauty and charm, became an instant sensation. Even though she appeared in the show for only a short time, her performance left a lasting impression.
Her Broadway work was complemented by numerous television appearances throughout the late 1950s and early 1960s, including guest roles on The Twilight Zone, Route 66, and The Danny Kaye Show. By the mid-60s, Julie had firmly established herself as a versatile actress, one who could effortlessly switch between stage, film, and TV.
Julie Newmar: The Original Catwoman
While Julie Newmar’s career had been building steadily, her role as Catwoman in the 1966 Batman TV series skyrocketed her to fame. Newmar appeared as the sultry villainess in 12 episodes of the show between 1966 and 1967. Her portrayal of Catwoman was revolutionary, combining elegance, danger, and charm in a way that no one had seen before.
In fact, Geoffrey Mark, a pop culture historian, notes, “For Baby Boomers or anyone who’s watched a rerun of Batman, her performance is unforgettable.” Julie’s distinctive portrayal of Catwoman, with her unique body language, outfits, and voice, transformed the character from the comic books into a pop culture icon. Her charisma was so powerful that it resonated far beyond her 12 appearances, cementing her as a key figure in the Batman legacy.
But Julie, ever the savvy actress, was careful not to be typecast by her iconic role. She deliberately chose not to appear in the Batman feature film, recognizing that too much time in the role could limit her career. Instead, she moved on to other opportunities, including movies like Mackenna’s Gold and The Maltese Bippy in 1969, and made guest appearances on shows like Star Trek and Bewitched.
Julie Newmar: A Jet-Setting Career
In the 1960s and 1970s, Julie became known for her ability to seamlessly balance different facets of her career. Whether it was taking roles in films, TV shows, or Broadway productions, Julie’s adaptability was a key to her longevity. She was one of many stars who made the bi-coastal lifestyle—dividing time between Los Angeles and New York—work for her, giving her more opportunities to showcase her talents.
Her ability to bounce between the stage and screen allowed her to thrive in an ever-changing entertainment industry. Newmar’s appearance in Broadway hits like Silk Stockings and The Marriage-Go-Round proved she was just as capable on stage as she was on screen.
But Julie’s talents extended beyond acting. In the 1970s, she launched her own line of “nearly invisible” pantyhose and bras called “Nudemar,” and she ventured into real estate, eventually building a significant fortune. These entrepreneurial ventures only added to her legacy as a multi-faceted talent.
Love, Family, and Personal Life
In 1977, Julie Newmar married lawyer J. Holt Smith, and they welcomed a son, John Jewl Smith, in 1981. John was born with a hearing impairment and Down syndrome, and Julie’s devotion to him as a mother was one of the defining aspects of her life. She often took him with her to public events, and their bond was visible to all who saw them together.
Julie’s personal life also included high-profile relationships, including an engagement to the famous novelist Louis L’Amour and romantic liaisons with actor Ken Scott and comedian Mort Sahl. However, her marriage to Smith ended in divorce in 1984. Throughout it all, Julie remained a fiercely independent woman who balanced her career, family, and personal passions with grace.
Julie Newmar Today: A Timeless Icon
At 90 years old, Julie Newmar remains as captivating as ever. She continues to support various causes, including LGBT rights, and remains involved in the entertainment industry through occasional appearances and voice work. She voiced Catwoman once again in two animated Batman films: Batman: Return of the Caped Crusaders (2016) and Batman vs. Two-Face (2017).
Julie’s beauty and talent are still undeniable, but what truly sets her apart is her resilience, generosity, and the undeniable impact she has had on generations of fans. Geoffrey Mark sums it up best: “Her soul is even more beautiful than her looks.”
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
Julie Newmar’s journey through Hollywood, Broadway, and beyond is one of remarkable talent, resilience, and transformation. From her early days as a dancer to her groundbreaking role as Catwoman, she’s proven that beauty, talent, and strength can carry an artist through seven decades of success. Whether on-screen or in her personal life, Julie’s charisma continues to shine brightly, and her legacy as the original Catwoman will never be forgotten.
