From Zoë Kravitz’s Uncertain Future To Julie Newmar’s Latest Sighting: The Definitive List Of Every Catwoman Actress And Their Legacy
The character of Catwoman, Selina Kyle, is arguably the most complex and enduring anti-heroine in the DC Universe, a fascinating blend of villain, lover, and ally to Batman. Her cinematic and television history is a rich tapestry of transformations, with each actress bringing a unique blend of athleticism, wit, and feline grace to the iconic black suit. As of the current date, December 22, 2025, the conversation around the character is more dynamic than ever, fueled by major news regarding the most recent actress to hold the whip and speculation about who might be next.
The legacy of the Feline Fatale is a story told by seven major live-action actresses, spanning six decades of pop culture. From the purr-fectly campy 1960s to the gritty realism of the 2020s, the evolution of Catwoman’s portrayal reflects changing times and evolving cinematic styles. The latest and most crucial update involves Zoë Kravitz, whose critically acclaimed turn in The Batman now faces uncertainty regarding her return in the sequel, a development that has sent the fandom into a frenzy of speculation.
The New Queen of Gotham: Zoë Kravitz's Complete Profile
Zoë Kravitz stepped into the role of Selina Kyle for Matt Reeves’ 2022 film, The Batman, offering a grounded, street-smart, and deeply empathetic portrayal that was instantly praised by critics and fans. Her version of Catwoman was less theatrical villain and more a survivor seeking justice, a major shift in the character's live-action history.
Zoë Kravitz Biography & Profile
- Full Name: Zoë Isabella Kravitz
- Born: December 1, 1988
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, U.S.
- Parents: Musician Lenny Kravitz and actress Lisa Bonet (making her Hollywood royalty)
- Notable Filmography Highlights:
- No Reservations (2007) - Debut Film
- X-Men: First Class (2011) - Played Angel Salvadore / Tempest
- The Divergent Series (2014–2016) - Played Christina
- Fantastic Beasts Film Series (2016–2022) - Played Leta Lestrange
- Big Little Lies (TV Series, 2017–2019) - Played Bonnie Carlson
- High Fidelity (TV Series, 2020) - Played Robyn Brooks
- The Batman (2022) - Played Selina Kyle / Catwoman
- Recent Career Update: Kravitz made her directorial debut with the thriller film Blink Twice (formerly titled Pussy Island), which premiered in 2024.
The Shocking News: Will Zoë Kravitz Return for The Batman Part II?
Despite the critical success of her performance and her palpable chemistry with Robert Pattinson’s Batman, recent reports have created significant buzz that Zoë Kravitz may not reprise her role in the highly anticipated sequel, The Batman Part II. While the studio reportedly desires her return, insiders suggest that a deal is far from certain, or that the narrative direction of the sequel may shift focus away from Selina Kyle. This uncertainty is a massive, breaking development for fans, who largely saw her Selina Kyle as the definitive modern interpretation of the character.
The possibility of her absence has instantly reignited the debate over which actress holds the title of the best Catwoman and has intensified the speculation over who the next Selina Kyle might be in DC's broader cinematic universe.
The Definitive Lineup: Ranking the Most Iconic Live-Action Catwomen
Catwoman's history is defined by the seven women who brought her to life on the big and small screens. Each interpretation has left an indelible mark on the character’s legacy and the broader superhero genre.
1. Michelle Pfeiffer (Batman Returns, 1992)
Michelle Pfeiffer's portrayal remains arguably the most iconic and critically acclaimed in cinematic history. Her transformation from the meek secretary Selina Kyle to the vengeful, stitched-up Catwoman in Tim Burton's dark fairy tale is legendary. Pfeiffer's performance built the foundation for the modern, complex, and psychologically damaged version of the character. For the role, she became proficient in whip skills, adding to the character's dangerous allure. Her black vinyl, stitched costume is still the most referenced Catwoman look.
2. Julie Newmar (Batman TV Series, 1966–1967)
The original live-action Catwoman, Julie Newmar, set the standard with her sultry voice, playful menace, and signature gold necklace. Her performance was the epitome of the 1960s camp style, defining the character's flirtatious dynamic with Adam West's Batman. In a fresh update, the 91-year-old actress was recently spotted making a rare public appearance, reminding fans of the enduring legacy of the first Feline Fatale.
3. Anne Hathaway (The Dark Knight Rises, 2012)
Anne Hathaway’s version of Selina Kyle was a departure from Pfeiffer's gothic take, presenting a highly skilled, morally ambiguous cat burglar in Christopher Nolan's grounded trilogy. Many fans and critics consider Hathaway’s Catwoman to be the most comic-accurate portrayal of Selina Kyle, capturing her essence as a master thief and social revolutionary. Her tactical suit, complete with high-tech goggles that flip up to resemble cat ears, was praised for its sleek, modern design.
4. Eartha Kitt (Batman TV Series, 1967–1968)
Eartha Kitt took over the role for the third and final season of the 1960s TV series, bringing a distinct, purring vocal style and a fierce, memorable presence. She was the first Black actress to portray a major DC character, a groundbreaking moment in the character's history that added a new layer of sophistication and difference to the role.
5. Halle Berry (Catwoman, 2004)
Halle Berry’s standalone film, while a box office disappointment and critically panned, remains a significant part of the character's history. The movie is frequently cited as one of the worst comic book films ever made, but Berry has since reflected on the overwhelming negative reviews and the backlash she received. Her costume, a controversial leather bra and open-cut trousers, was a radical departure from the traditional full-body suit, marking a unique and divisive moment in the Catwoman costume evolution.
The TV Felines (Lesser-Known Entities)
- Lee Meriwether: Played Catwoman in the 1966 Batman: The Movie, filling in for Julie Newmar who was unavailable.
- Camren Bicondova: Portrayed the young Selina Kyle/Catwoman throughout the five seasons of the TV prequel series Gotham.
- Lili Simmons: Took over the role of the adult Selina Kyle for the final moments of the Gotham series finale.
The Future of the Feline Fatale: Casting Rumors and Legacy
The uncertain status of Zoë Kravitz in the DC universe has opened the door for new casting rumors, proving that the role of Catwoman is one of the most coveted in Hollywood. The most prominent current rumor centers on a British actress known for her dynamic, action-oriented roles.
The Vanessa Kirby Casting Rumor
A persistent rumor suggests that actress Vanessa Kirby, known for her roles in Mission: Impossible – Fallout and The Crown, is a strong contender for a future Catwoman role, potentially within the new DC Universe or another iteration of the character. Kirby has addressed the speculation, confirming the rumors are out there and expressing her awareness of the role's prestige. Her ability to blend high-octane action with emotional depth makes her a compelling choice for the next generation of Selina Kyle.
The Enduring Topical Authority of the Costume
The Catwoman costume evolution is a reflection of her journey. It began with the sparkling, sequined onesie of the 1960s, a look that was more about glamour than stealth. Michelle Pfeiffer's black, stitched vinyl suit introduced the element of psychological damage and fetishwear. Anne Hathaway's tactical suit offered a realistic, high-tech approach, while Zoë Kravitz's interpretation featured a minimalist, leather-clad street fighter look that was grounded in reality. The constant reinvention of the suit, from the classic mask to the modern cat-eye goggles, is a testament to the character's timeless appeal and adaptability across different eras.
Ultimately, the actress of Catwoman is more than just a performer; she is a cultural barometer. Each woman who has worn the cowl—Newmar, Kitt, Pfeiffer, Berry, Hathaway, and Kravitz—has added a distinct flavor to the character, ensuring that Selina Kyle remains one of the most complex, compelling, and eternally fascinating figures in all of comic book lore. The latest news surrounding Kravitz merely confirms that the world is always watching, waiting to see what the next purr-fect interpretation will be.
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