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Eartha Kitt Biography (1927–2008) (654 hits)

Eartha Kitt Biography (1927–2008)

Singer and actress Eartha Kitt is best known for her holiday song "Santa Baby," and for playing Catwoman in the 1960's TV show 'Batman.'

Who Was Eartha Kitt?

Eartha Kitt became popular in Paris as a nightclub singer, then returned to the United States to appear in films and on Broadway. Her 1953 recording of "Santa Baby" is still a favorite today. In the 1960s, Kitt had a recurring role as Catwoman on TV's Batman, but her career waned after she criticized the Vietnam War during a luncheon with Lady Bird Johnson.

Early Life

Born in North, South Carolina, famed singer and actress Eartha Kitt had a difficult childhood. Her mother abandoned her, and she was left in the care of relatives who mistreated her. Kitt was often teased and picked on because of her mixed-race heritage — her father was white, and her mother was African American and Cherokee.

Around the age of 8, Kitt moved to New York City to live with an aunt. There, she eventually enrolled in the New York School of Performing Arts. Around the age of 16, Kitt won a scholarship to study with Katherine Dunham, and later joined Dunham's dance troupe. She toured with the group for several years before going solo. In Paris, Kitt became a popular nightclub singer. She was discovered in Europe by actor-director Orson Welles. Welles, who reportedly called her "the most exciting woman alive," cast her as Helen of Troy in his production of Dr. Faustus.

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