Julie Newmar

Early Life

Julie Newmar was born on August 16, 1933, in Los Angeles, California, as the eldest of three children to Don and Helene Newmeyer. Her father was a head of the physical education department at Los Angeles City College and a former professional football player, while her mother was a fashion designer who later became a real estate investor. Raised in the Christian Science faith, Newmar began dancing at a young age and became a prima ballerina with the Los Angeles Opera by the age of 15.

Career

Newmar's career began in the early 1950s, where she appeared in various films as a dancer, including notable roles in "Slaves of Babylon" and "Demetrius and the Gladiators." She made her Broadway debut in 1955 and gained fame for her role as Katrin Sveg in the 1958 production of "The Marriage-Go-Round," which earned her a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play. She reprised this role in the film adaptation in 1961, receiving a Golden Globe nomination for Most Promising Newcomer. Newmar is also well-remembered for her iconic portrayal of Catwoman in the 1960s television series "Batman."

Personal Life

Newmar's personal life has been marked by her advocacy and resilience. After a brief marriage to lawyer J. Holt Smith, she became a single mother to her son John, who was born with Down Syndrome and later became deaf. Newmar took it upon herself to learn sign language to communicate with him. An avid supporter of LGBT rights, she received a lifetime achievement award from the Gay and Lesbian Elder Housing organization in 2013. Despite facing health challenges, including Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease, Newmar remains active in her community and continues to advocate for various causes, including environmental issues.