9 Best Live-Action Portrayals of Catwoman in DC History, Ranked

From classic TV charm to modern-day heists, these actresses have defined Catwoman in live-action—see who purrs to the top.

Alison Peake

Published

September 27, 2024

Warner Bros. Pictures

By Alison Peake

Alison is an entertainment writer for Nerdspin. She is also a content marketing consultant and works with lifestyle brands.

Alison is an entertainment writer for Nerdspin. She is also a content marketing consultant and works with lifestyle…

Catwoman, one of DC Comics’ most iconic antiheroes, has graced the screen in numerous live-action adaptations, each bringing a unique blend of charm, danger, and complexity to the character. Selina Kyle walks the line between villain and hero, captivating fans with her alluring presence and razor-sharp wit. Over the decades, several talented actresses have donned the leather suit, leaving their mark on this unforgettable character.

From the 1960s TV shows to modern blockbuster films, these portrayals have each contributed to Catwoman’s enduring legacy. Let’s rank the 9 best live-action portrayals of DC’s Catwoman, from the classic interpretations to the newest adaptations.

9. Halle Berry – Catwoman (2004)

Though Halle Berry’s portrayal in Catwoman took creative liberties with the character that fans didn’t like—playing a new iteration, Patience Phillips—she still brought a distinct style and flair to the role. While the film may not have been a critical success, Berry’s performance remains a notable chapter in the live-action history of Catwoman, with her physicality and commitment to the role standing out.

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8. Lee Meriwether – Batman: The Movie (1966)

Lee Meriwether stepped into the role of Catwoman in Batman: The Movie and brought a sharp, calculating edge to the character. Though she only portrayed Selina Kyle once, Meriwether left a lasting impression with her confident, no-nonsense performance. Her Catwoman was a formidable foe for Adam West’s Batman, marking her place in the legacy of live-action portrayals.

7. Lili Simmons – Gotham (2019)

In the final episode of Gotham, Lili Simmons took over the role of Selina Kyle to depict her as an adult, fully embodying the character of Catwoman. While her screen time recast was brief, Simmons provided a glimpse into Selina’s future, offering fans a satisfying conclusion to the younger character’s journey throughout the series.

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6. Camren Bicondova – Gotham (2014-2019)

Portraying a young Selina Kyle in the origin story series Gotham, Camren Bicondova captured the early stages of Catwoman’s life. Her performance highlighted Selina’s street-smart instincts and emotional depth, exploring the character’s complex relationship with Bruce Wayne. Over five seasons, Bicondova skillfully evolved Selina from a street thief into a budding antihero.

5. Eartha Kitt – Batman (1967-1968)

Eartha Kitt’s portrayal of Catwoman in the third season of the 1960s Batman TV series broke boundaries and left a lasting impression. Her unique voice and sultry demeanor made her Catwoman one of the most memorable, bringing a new level of sophistication and danger to the role. Kitt’s interpretation still resonates with fans, decades after her appearance.

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4. Anne Hathaway – The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

In Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight Rises, Anne Hathaway brought a sleek, modern take on the character. Her Selina Kyle was intelligent, resourceful, and morally ambiguous—perfectly fitting Nolan’s grounded approach to the Batman universe. Hathaway’s portrayal offered a blend of action, wit, and complexity, ensuring her place as one of the top live-action Catwomen.

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3. Julie Newmar – Batman (1966-1967)

The original live-action Catwoman, Julie Newmar, set the standard with her portrayal in the 1960s Batman TV series. Her performance captured the playful and seductive side of Catwoman, paired with a sense of sophistication. Newmar’s Catwoman is iconic for her purring voice and confident demeanor, influencing how future portrayals of Selina Kyle would evolve.

2. Zoë Kravitz – The Batman (2022)

Zoë Kravitz’s take on Selina Kyle in Matt Reeves’ The Batman brought a grounded, modern touch to the character. Kravitz portrayed Selina as a complex, multi-dimensional woman who isn’t afraid to stand her ground. Her chemistry with Robert Pattinson’s Batman added a fresh dynamic, making her portrayal one of the most nuanced and compelling in recent years.

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1. Michelle Pfeiffer – Batman Returns (1992)

Michelle Pfeiffer’s turn as Catwoman in Tim Burton’s Batman Returns is often hailed as the definitive live-action portrayal. Her combination of vulnerability and deadly allure made Selina Kyle a standout character, balancing the line between hero and villain effortlessly. Pfeiffer’s Catwoman was fierce, unapologetic, and unforgettable, with a now-iconic catsuit that has become synonymous with the character.

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