Julie Newmar, 92, Reflects on Catwoman Fame and Life Philosophy
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jun 8
Julie Newmar, 92, Reflects on Catwoman Fame and Life Philosophy
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jun 8
Summary
At 92, Julie Newmar says her life is now centered on beauty, service and metaphysical calm, speaking from the Brentwood garden where she has lived for decades with her son John.
The original 1960s TV Catwoman said the 1966 role finally fit her unusual screen presence, and she shaped it herself by studying cats and altering the costume to heighten the character’s feline sensuality.
Newmar said that fame still endures: she attends autograph signings, posts Catwoman images online and recently drew 5,000 likes in 10 minutes, with fans spanning comics, Hollywood nostalgia and queer communities.
Beyond acting, she described a second life managing family real estate, raising John alone after his 1981 birth and learning sign language when he lost his hearing after meningitis at age 3.
The interview also highlighted her unapologetically old-school views on men and Hollywood, alongside spiritual beliefs that help explain the optimism she says has guided her through career, motherhood and aging.