The first woman to win the Miss America title and simultaneously have a successful acting career, starring in films and TV shows, including the iconic role of Catwoman in the 1966 Batman movie.
Lee Meriwether is an American actress and former model, best known for her iconic portrayal of Catwoman in the 1966 film version of Batman, as well as her award-nominated role as Betty Jones in the 1970s crime drama Barnaby Jones. With a career spanning over six decades, Meriwether has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Born on May 27, 1935, in Los Angeles, California, Meriwether grew up in San Francisco after her family moved there from Phoenix, Arizona. She attended George Washington High School, where she was classmates with the legendary singer Johnny Mathis. Later, she enrolled in City College of San Francisco, where she met fellow actor Bill Bixby.
Meriwether's journey to stardom began when she won the Miss San Francisco title, followed by the Miss California crown in 1954. Her crowning achievement came in 1955, when she was crowned Miss America, impressing the judges with her recital of a John Millington Synge monologue.
Following her reign as Miss America, Meriwether joined the
Meriwether's most notable role was as Betty Jones, the secretary and daughter-in-law, in the popular crime drama Barnaby Jones. Her performance earned her two Golden Globe Award nominations in 1975 and 1976, as well as an Emmy Award nomination in 1977.
In addition to her work on Barnaby Jones, Meriwether is known for her portrayal of Catwoman in the 1966 film version of Batman, replacing Julie Newmar. She also had a recurring role as Ruth Martin on the daytime soap opera All My Children, until the show's conclusion in 2011.
Meriwether has been married to Marshall Borden since 1986. She has one brother, Don Brett Meriwether. Despite rumors of an engagement to baseball legend Joe DiMaggio, the two never actually became engaged.
With a career spanning over six decades, Lee Meriwether has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Her iconic portrayal of Catwoman and her award-nominated performance in Barnaby Jones have cemented her place as one of the most beloved actresses of her generation.
Meriwether's legacy extends beyond her on-screen presence, as she has inspired countless young women to pursue careers in the entertainment industry. Her tireless work ethic, elegance, and grace have made her a timeless icon of American entertainment.
97 Years Old
Iconic actor and entrepreneur best known for playing the titular role in the 1960s TV series "Batman," bringing a campy, over-the-top flair to the character.
81 Years Old
The iconic actor who played Robin in the 1960s TV series "Batman," starring alongside Adam West as the Caped Crusader, and later became an animal rights activist.
93 Years Old
A talented comedic actor and impressionist, best known for his iconic role as the Riddler on the 1960s TV show "Batman".
Born in 1907
A charming, mustachioed actor who brought iconic villains to life, most notably the Joker in the 1960s Batman TV series.
Born in 1907
A talented artist who excelled in various fields, including acting, singing, directing, producing, and screenwriting, with iconic roles in films like "The Day of the Locust" and "Rocky."
92 Years Old
An iconic actress and dancer, best known for her iconic role as Catwoman in the 1960s TV series "Batman" and her Tony Award-winning performances on Broadway.
89 Years Old
A talented performer who danced with the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo and played the iconic Batgirl in the 1960s TV series, bringing a touch of elegance to the superhero genre.
