JULIE NEWMAR LOVE Is Everything

The Batman alum talks about her life and the lessons she's learned

- Katie Bruno

Julie Newmar has lived at least nine lives. The dancer-actress, best known for playing Batman’s purrfect nemesis, Catwoman, in the first two seasons of the beloved 1960s-era superhero series, has done a lot of living during her 89 years. “I’ve had a remarkable life,” Julie admits in an exclusive chat with Closer. “My life has been full of surprises.” In fact, landing her role on Batman, after working as a dancer and choreographer, starring in musicals including 1954’s Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, and winning a Tony Award for 1958’s Broadway production of The Marriage-Go-Round, was a complete fluke. “Originally they wanted Suzanne Pleshette,” the statuesque performer confides. “She’s smart, sassy, but a mere 5-foot-4. I was available — with six inches to spare!”

Are you a cat person in real life?

Have you ever owned a dog? I’ve never owned a dog.... [I’ve been a cat person] like furr-ever. I have a very catlike personality: I am meow-sical, I drink purr-secco, and I drive a Furr-ari (when it’s working).

How did you win the role on Batman?

I was in New York, and my brother was visiting me from Harvard with friends. A phone call came, and they asked about Catwoman on Batman. I didn’t know the show and didn’t read the comics. But when my brother heard about Batman — it was a huge hit at Harvard; they would stop their studies and watch the show — he literally pushed me out the door to do it.

Did you have any idea the role would make you a legend?