Catwoman

Character Overview

Real Name: Selina Kyle (primary)

First Appearance: Batman #1 (Spring 1940)

Creators: Bill Finger (writer), Bob Kane (artist)

Original Name: “The Cat”

Publisher: DC Comics

Alignment: Anti-hero, sometimes villain

Base of Operations: Gotham City

Introduction

Catwoman stands as one of the most enduring and complex characters in the DC Comics universe. Created in the spring of 1940 by writer Bill Finger and artist Bob Kane, she debuted in the very first issue of Batman’s solo comic series, establishing her as one of the Dark Knight’s oldest and most significant adversaries. Originally introduced simply as “The Cat,” she quickly evolved from a straightforward jewel thief into one of comics’ most nuanced characters, blurring the lines between hero and villain.

Unlike many of Batman’s rogues gallery, Catwoman operates in a moral gray area. She is not driven by madness like the Joker, nor by a need to prove intellectual superiority like the Riddler. Instead, her motivations stem from survival, personal gain, and a complex code of ethics that occasionally aligns with heroism but more frequently serves her own interests. This moral ambiguity has made her one of the most compelling figures in superhero fiction.

Over more than eight decades of publication history, Catwoman has undergone numerous reinterpretations. She has been portrayed as a simple cat burglar, a reformed ally to Batman, a prostitute-turned-vigilante, a protector of Gotham’s East End, and even a crime boss. Each iteration has added layers to her character while maintaining core elements: her exceptional physical abilities, her cat-themed persona, her complicated romantic relationship with Batman, and her fierce independence.

Her status as an anti-hero rather than a pure villain has allowed Catwoman to sustain multiple solo comic series, beginning in 1989 with a limited series and continuing through several ongoing volumes. She has appeared in virtually every major Batman adaptation across film, television, animation, and video games, portrayed by some of Hollywood’s most celebrated actresses including Julie Newmar, Eartha Kitt, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Anne Hathaway.

Catwoman’s influence extends beyond comics. She represents one of the earliest examples of a complex female antagonist in popular culture, predating similar developments in other media by decades. Her evolution from villain to anti-hero to occasional protagonist mirrors broader shifts in how female characters are portrayed in fiction, making her not just an important figure in Batman’s world but in the history of popular storytelling itself.

Catwoman: Creation and Origin

The Creative Genesis

Catwoman emerged from the collaborative partnership between writer Bill Finger and artist Bob Kane at the dawn of Batman’s publishing history. She made her debut in Batman #1, cover-dated Spring 1940, appearing in a story titled “The Cat.” This issue, which also introduced the Joker, established two of Batman’s most significant relationships that would endure for over eight decades.

Initial Concept

Bill Finger conceived Catwoman as a direct foil to Batman. Where Batman was grim and serious, The Cat was playful and flirtatious. Where Batman fought crime, she committed it with style and panache. Finger specifically wanted a female character who could match Batman physically and intellectually while introducing an element of romantic tension that had been absent from Batman’s previous adversaries.

Creative Influences

The character drew heavily from the femme fatale archetypes prevalent in 1930s cinema. Bill Finger was particularly inspired by the glamorous, dangerous women portrayed by actresses such as Jean Harlow and Hedy Lamarr. These film stars embodied a seductive, confident sexuality that was revolutionary for comic book antagonists of the era. The character’s visual design and demeanor channeled the sophisticated, slinky cat burglars that populated crime films of the period.

The cat motif itself was chosen for multiple symbolic reasons. Cats represent independence, agility, stealth, and a certain aloofness, all traits that defined the character. Additionally, cats have long been associated with femininity and mystery in Western culture, providing a rich thematic foundation for the character’s development.

Evolution of the Name

In her initial appearance, the character was simply called “The Cat.” She did not wear a costume, instead appearing as an elegant socialite during a cruise ship robbery. The name “Catwoman” would not be applied until her second appearance in Batman #2 (Summer 1940), where she also began wearing a more distinctive cat-eared disguise. The evolution from “The Cat” to “Catwoman” reflected the growing sophistication of superhero comics and the emerging convention of costumed identities.

Early Development

Throughout the 1940s, Catwoman’s characterization shifted considerably. Initially portrayed as a straightforward jewel thief with no particular malice toward Batman, she gradually developed more romantic undertones in her interactions with the Caped Crusader. By the late 1940s, she had transformed from antagonist to something closer to a love interest who occasionally committed crimes.

The Comics Code Authority, established in 1954, forced significant changes to Catwoman’s characterization. Her seductive qualities were toned down, and she disappeared from Batman comics between 1954 and 1966. Her return coincided with the campy Batman television series starring Adam West, which reintroduced her to mainstream audiences through the performances of Julie Newmar and Eartha Kitt.

Modern Reinterpretations

Frank Miller’s “Batman: Year One” (1987) fundamentally reimagined Catwoman’s origin for the modern era, establishing her as a prostitute who learned martial arts to protect herself before becoming a cat burglar. This darker, more grounded origin influenced subsequent adaptations for decades.

The 1990s brought further evolution through Catwoman’s first ongoing solo series (1993), which expanded her backstory to include a murdered father and a sister named Maggie Kyle. These elements added emotional depth and personal stakes that had been absent from earlier versions.

Each creative team since has added their own interpretations while maintaining the core elements established in 1940: a brilliant, athletic woman in a cat-themed persona, walking the line between criminal and hero, forever intertwined with the Batman.

Catwoman: Backstory

In-Universe Origins

Catwoman’s backstory has undergone numerous revisions throughout her publication history, with different eras offering distinct interpretations of how Selina Kyle became the feline fatale of Gotham City.

Golden Age Version (1940s-1950s)

In her earliest incarnation, Catwoman had a relatively simple origin. She was originally presented as a flight attendant who turned to crime, using her knowledge of routes and schedules to facilitate elaborate heists. This backstory emphasized her intelligence and resourcefulness rather than trauma or tragedy. She was motivated primarily by greed and the thrill of outsmarting authorities, including Batman himself.

Bronze Age Developments (1970s-1980s)

The 1970s introduced more complex elements to Selina Kyle’s past. Comics of this era suggested she had trained in various physical disciplines, including gymnastics and martial arts, though specific details remained vague. The character was portrayed as having grown up on the streets of Gotham, developing her skills out of necessity. This version emphasized her self-made nature and survival instincts.

Modern Origin: Frank Miller’s “Year One” (1987)

Frank Miller’s “Batman: Year One” (published in Batman #404-407, 1987) provided the most influential reinterpretation of Catwoman’s origin. In this version, Selina Kyle worked as a prostitute in Gotham’s East End to survive. She learned various martial arts and combat skills from her former pimp, who was also a skilled fighter.

Miller’s version established that Selina adopted the Catwoman identity partly as a means of escaping her life as a sex worker, but also as a way to gain power and control over her circumstances. This origin emphasized themes of empowerment, survival, and the transformative power of adopting a new identity. It also established her protectiveness toward other vulnerable people, particularly women and children in Gotham’s poorest neighborhoods.

Post-Crisis Consolidation (1980s-2000s)

Following “Crisis on Infinite Earths” (1985-1986), DC Comics sought to consolidate Catwoman’s various backstories into a cohesive narrative. The 1989 Catwoman limited series and the subsequent ongoing series that began in 1993 developed several key elements:

Family Background: - Father: Brian Kyle, an abusive alcoholic who was eventually murdered - Mother: Maria Kyle, who died by suicide when Selina was young - Sister: Maggie Kyle, who became a nun and was later driven insane by Black Mask

Childhood: Selina grew up in the harsh environment of Gotham’s East End, learning to survive through theft and cunning. She spent time in juvenile detention facilities and developed a deep distrust of authority figures and institutions.

Training: After becoming Catwoman, she sought out additional training to compete with Gotham’s costumed criminals and heroes. She studied various martial arts disciplines and continued to refine her acrobatic skills.

The New 52 Reboot (2011)

DC’s “New 52” reboot in 2011 offered another revision to Catwoman’s origin. In this version, Selina Kyle grew up in the Wayne family’s domestic violence shelter, the Thomas and Martha Wayne Home for the Boys and Girls of Gotham. She had no memory of her parents and was eventually separated from her brother (introduced in this continuity). This version emphasized her connection to the Wayne family from early childhood, predating her relationship with Bruce Wayne as Batman.

DC Rebirth and Beyond (2016-Present)

The DC Rebirth initiative (2016) restored many pre-New 52 elements while maintaining some newer additions. Current continuity generally acknowledges:

• Selina’s difficult childhood in Gotham’s East End
• Her training in martial arts and gymnastics
• The murder of her father and its impact on her psyche
• Her sister Maggie and their complicated relationship
• Her early career as a cat burglar before encountering Batman
• Her moral code, which prevents her from killing or harming innocent people

Core Motivations

Regardless of the specific version, Catwoman’s motivations consistently include:

Survival: The fundamental drive to survive and thrive in a world that has repeatedly victimized her.

Independence: A fierce refusal to be controlled by anyone, whether criminals, authorities, or even well-meaning heroes.

Thrill: The excitement of high-stakes burglary and the challenge of outsmarting security systems and heroes.

Protection: A desire to protect vulnerable people, particularly in Gotham’s poorest neighborhoods.

Ambiguity: An ongoing struggle between her better nature and her criminal instincts, often personified by her relationship with Batman.

Catwoman: Powers and Abilities

Physical Abilities

Catwoman possesses no metahuman powers; instead, she relies on extensive training, natural talent, and specialized equipment to operate at peak human capability.

Expert Gymnast and Acrobat

Selina Kyle ranks among the most skilled acrobats in the DC Universe. Her gymnastic abilities rival those of the finest Olympic athletes and approach levels seen in Dick Grayson (Nightwing) and Batman himself. She can perform complex aerial maneuvers, maintain perfect balance on narrow surfaces, and execute flips and twists with feline grace. Her agility allows her to navigate Gotham’s rooftops with ease, leap between buildings, and escape through seemingly impossible routes.

Master Martial Artist

Catwoman has trained in multiple martial arts disciplines to compete with Gotham’s criminal underworld and costumed heroes. Her fighting style incorporates elements of:

• Judo and Jujitsu: For throws, grapples, and using an opponent’s momentum against them
• Boxing: For striking power and defensive maneuvers
• Capoeira: For acrobatic kicks and unpredictable movement
• Karate: For powerful strikes and discipline
• Parkour: For efficient urban movement and escape

Her combat abilities allow her to defeat multiple opponents simultaneously and hold her own against some of the DC Universe’s most skilled fighters, including Batman on several occasions.

Feline Agility and Reflexes

While not superhuman, Catwoman’s reflexes and agility border on the extraordinary. She can dodge bullets, react to sudden attacks with incredible speed, and move with a silence that seems almost supernatural. Her flexibility allows her to escape bonds and squeeze through impossibly small openings.

Mental Abilities

High Intelligence and Cunning

Selina Kyle possesses an exceptional intellect, particularly in areas related to planning, strategy, and improvisation. She can analyze complex security systems, identify weaknesses in defenses, and plan elaborate heists that account for multiple contingencies. Her intelligence extends to social manipulation; she excels at reading people and using her understanding of human psychology to her advantage.

Expert Seductress

Catwoman uses her sexuality as a tool, capable of manipulating targets through flirtation and seduction. This skill proves particularly effective against marks who underestimate her or allow attraction to cloud their judgment. However, this aspect of her character is consistently portrayed as one of many tools rather than her primary capability.

Criminal Skills

Master Burglar and Thief

Catwoman stands as one of the world’s greatest thieves. Her burglary skills include:

• Lock picking: She can open mechanical and electronic locks with minimal tools
• Safe cracking: Expertise in both traditional combination locks and modern electronic security
• Stealth infiltration: Ability to enter heavily guarded facilities undetected
• Pickpocketing: Exceptional sleight of hand for close-quarters theft
• Art appraisal: Knowledge to identify valuable items and forgeries

Stealth and Infiltration Mastery

Few can match Catwoman’s stealth capabilities. She can move silently across any surface, remain hidden in plain sight, and escape detection by trained security personnel and advanced electronic systems. Her infiltration skills have allowed her to breach facilities protected by Wayne Enterprises security, ARGUS, and other high-level organizations.

Equipment

Cat o’ Nine Tails Whip

Catwoman’s signature weapon is a custom-designed whip, typically portrayed as a cat o’ nine tails or a single-tail bullwhip. She wields this weapon with extraordinary precision, using it to: - Disarm opponents - Grapple and swing across distances - Trip or entangle enemies - Deliver painful strikes - Activate switches or retrieve objects from a distance

Retractable Claws

Catwoman wears gloves equipped with razor-sharp retractable claws. These claws can: - Cut through ropes, fabric, and thin metal - Scale walls by digging into surfaces - Serve as close-quarters weapons - Leave distinctive calling cards at crime scenes

Goggles

Her goggles serve multiple purposes: - Night vision capabilities - Protection from bright light and flashbangs - Enhanced visual acuity - When pushed up onto her head, they create the silhouette of cat ears, contributing to her visual motif

High-Tech Gadgets

Depending on the era and story, Catwoman has employed various high-tech devices: - Grapple guns for rapid rooftop traversal - EMP devices for disabling electronics - Cutting lasers for bypassing physical barriers - Communication equipment for coordinating with allies - Catsuit: Her costume provides protection against minor injuries while maintaining flexibility and mobility

Weaknesses

Human Vulnerability

As a baseline human, Catwoman remains vulnerable to injury, illness, and fatigue. She cannot withstand gunshots, severe trauma, or extreme environmental conditions without protection.

Moral Code

Catwoman’s refusal to kill or seriously harm innocent people occasionally limits her options and can be exploited by enemies who recognize this limitation.

Emotional Connections

Her relationships, particularly with Batman and her sister Maggie, can be exploited by enemies. Her protectiveness toward certain individuals has been used against her on multiple occasions.

Equipment Dependence

Many of Catwoman’s most impressive feats rely on her specialized equipment. Deprived of her tools, she remains highly capable but loses some of her signature capabilities.

Catwoman: Major Story Arcs

Golden Age Appearances (1940-1954)

“The Cat” (Batman #1, Spring 1940)

Catwoman’s debut story established her as a jewel thief aboard a luxury cruise liner. Disguised as an elderly woman, she attempted to steal a valuable necklace while flirting with Bruce Wayne. This story introduced the dynamic that would define their relationship: mutual attraction complicated by opposing sides of the law.

Early Batman Comics (1940-1954)

Throughout the 1940s, Catwoman appeared regularly in Batman comics, evolving from straightforward antagonist to a more complex character with romantic undertones. Stories from this era often featured her escaping capture or occasionally assisting Batman against greater threats. The Comics Code Authority’s implementation in 1954 led to her removal from comics for over a decade.

Silver and Bronze Age Return (1966-1986)

“The Fine Feathered Finks” (Batman TV Series influence)

Following her return in 1966, Catwoman appeared in stories influenced by the campy Batman television series. These tales were lighter in tone, emphasizing the flirtatious relationship between Batman and Catwoman while maintaining her criminal activities.

Modern Era Transformation

“Batman: Year One” (Batman #404-407, 1987)

Frank Miller’s seminal story redefined both Batman and Catwoman for the modern age. In this origin tale, Selina Kyle works as a dominatrix in Gotham’s East End before adopting the Catwoman identity. Miller portrayed her as a survivor who takes control of her life through the Catwoman persona, establishing her protectiveness toward vulnerable women and her complex moral code. This version influenced every subsequent interpretation of the character.

“Batman: The Long Halloween” (1996-1997)

Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale’s mystery epic featured Catwoman as a significant supporting character. Her alliance with Batman during the Holiday Killer investigation deepened their relationship while maintaining her ambiguous allegiances. The story emphasized her knowledge of Gotham’s criminal underworld and her willingness to operate outside the law.

“Batman: Dark Victory” (1999-2000)

The sequel to “The Long Halloween” continued Catwoman’s involvement in Gotham’s criminal landscape. Her relationship with Batman grew more complicated as she assisted him while maintaining her criminal enterprises.

Solo Series Era

Catwoman Volume 1 (1989 Limited Series)

Mindy Newell and J.J. Birch’s four-issue limited series established Catwoman’s viability as a solo character. The story explored her psychological depth and established her protective role in Gotham’s East End.

Catwoman Volume 2 (1993-2001)

The first ongoing Catwoman series began in August 1993, written initially by Jo Duffy and later by Doug Moench and others. This series established many canonical elements of Selina’s backstory, including her sister Maggie Kyle and the murder of their father. Major arcs included:

• “Her Sister’s Keeper”: Explored Selina’s relationship with Maggie and introduced the trauma that would eventually drive Maggie insane
• “The Tin Roof Club”: Established Catwoman’s role as an underground information broker
• “When in Rome” (2004): A six-issue miniseries by Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale depicting Catwoman’s early career adventures in Italy

Catwoman Volume 3 (2002-2008)

Ed Brubaker’s acclaimed run (2002-2005) brought noir sensibilities to the series. Under Brubaker, Catwoman operated as a Robin Hood-esque figure protecting the East End while maintaining her criminal activities. Key arcs included:

• “Anodyne”: Introduction of new supporting characters and establishment of her territory
• “Wild Ride”: A crossover with Batman that tested her independence
• “The Replacements”: Featured Holly Robinson temporarily taking up the Catwoman mantle

“War Games” (2004)

This major Batman crossover had devastating consequences for Catwoman. Crime boss Black Mask captured and brutally tortured her, seeking information about Batman. The storyline showed Selina’s resilience while establishing Black Mask as a personal nemesis.

“Batman: Hush” (2002-2003)

Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee’s blockbuster storyline featured an iconic romantic arc between Batman and Catwoman. Batman revealed his identity to her, and they began a serious relationship. The arc culminated in a dramatic breakup when Batman questioned whether their relationship had been manipulated by the villain Hush, causing lasting damage to their trust.

“Heart of Hush” (2008)

Paul Dini’s follow-up to “Hush” saw Thomas Elliot (Hush) return to target Catwoman specifically. He removed her heart surgically, keeping her alive through machines while Batman raced to recover it. This story demonstrated the depth of Batman’s feelings for Selina and her own resilience.

The New 52 Era (2011-2016)

“The New 52” Catwoman (2011-2016)

DC’s universe-wide reboot brought significant changes. The new series by Judd Winick emphasized Catwoman’s criminal activities and featured a controversial first issue showing an intimate encounter with Batman. Major storylines included:

• “Election Night”: Catwoman became a crime boss, controlling Gotham’s underworld
• “Race of Thieves”: A competition among the world’s greatest thieves
• “Death of the Family”: Crossover with the Joker’s attack on the Bat-family

“Batman Eternal” (2014-2015)

This weekly series featured Catwoman as a major player in Gotham’s underground, eventually leading to her becoming a crime boss controlling the city’s organized crime.

DC Rebirth and Current Era (2016-Present)

“Batman: Rebirth” (2016-2017)

Tom King’s run on Batman featured one of the most significant developments in Catwoman’s history. In Batman #24 (2017), Batman proposed to Selina Kyle. She accepted, launching a storyline that culminated in the “Batman/Catwoman” wedding buildup.

“The Wedding” (Batman #50, 2018)

The highly anticipated wedding issue featured a twist: Bane manipulated events to prevent the ceremony, though the couple remained together. This storyline explored their deep connection and the reasons why they both need each other.

“Batman/Catwoman” (2020-2021)

Tom King and Clay Mann’s 12-issue series explored the relationship across three timelines: past, present, and future. The future timeline showed an elderly Selina caring for Bruce Wayne in his final years, providing a poignant conclusion to their long romance.

Current Series (2018-Present)

The current Catwoman ongoing series by writer Ram V (beginning in 2018) has established Selina in multiple locations including Gotham, Villa Hermosa, and Alleytown. Recent arcs have explored her role as a protector of the marginalized while maintaining her criminal identity.

Catwoman: Relationships

Primary Relationships

Bruce Wayne/Batman

The relationship between Catwoman and Batman stands as one of the most enduring and complex romances in comic book history. Beginning with her first appearance in 1940, their dynamic has evolved through multiple phases:

The Attraction: From their first encounter, an undeniable chemistry existed between the two. Even as adversaries, they recognized kindred spirits in each other, both operating outside conventional boundaries while maintaining personal codes.

The On-Again, Off-Again Dynamic: For decades, their relationship followed a pattern of attraction, brief alliances, romantic encounters, and inevitable separation due to their conflicting paths. Batman’s commitment to justice and Catwoman’s criminal activities created an insurmountable barrier.

Serious Commitment: The modern era has seen their relationship deepen significantly. In current continuity, Bruce Wayne proposed to Selina Kyle, and though the wedding was prevented by manipulation, they remain committed partners. The “Batman/Catwoman” series by Tom King established that they will ultimately spend their lives together.

Mutual Understanding: Perhaps more than any other characters, Batman and Catwoman understand each other’s dual nature. Selina sees through Bruce’s playboy facade to the driven, traumatized man beneath. Bruce recognizes Selina’s moral code and capacity for heroism beneath her criminal exterior.

Family

Maggie Kyle (Sister)

Selina’s younger sister represents one of her few true emotional vulnerabilities. While Selina became a criminal, Maggie chose religion, becoming a nun. Their relationship has been strained by their different paths but marked by genuine love. The “War Games” storyline saw Black Mask torture Maggie specifically to hurt Selina, driving Maggie insane and creating lasting trauma between the sisters.

Brian Kyle (Father)

Selina’s father was an abusive alcoholic who was eventually murdered. His abuse shaped Selina’s childhood and contributed to her distrust of authority and protective instincts toward the vulnerable.

Maria Kyle (Mother)

Maria Kyle died by suicide when Selina was young, an event that profoundly affected her development and contributed to her need for independence and control.

Allies

Holly Robinson

Introduced in “Batman: Year One” as a young prostitute Selina protected, Holly became one of her closest friends and confidantes. Holly eventually learned Catwoman’s identity and occasionally served as her replacement when Selina needed to establish alibis. Their relationship represents one of the few truly platonic, supportive friendships in Selina’s life.

Poison Ivy (Pamela Isley)

Catwoman and Poison Ivy share a complex relationship that has occasionally included romantic undertones. They have allied on numerous occasions, particularly when dealing with threats to Gotham’s marginalized populations. Their partnership represents a meeting of two women who have been victimized by society and reclaimed their power.

Harley Quinn (Harleen Quinzel)

The friendship between Catwoman and Harley Quinn developed primarily in recent years, particularly during Gotham City Sirens (2009-2011), a series featuring Catwoman, Poison Ivy, and Harley Quinn as an unlikely team. Despite their different moral codes, they formed a genuine bond of friendship and mutual support.

Leslie Thompkins

The compassionate doctor who helps Gotham’s poor has occasionally served as a moral compass for Catwoman. Their interactions highlight Selina’s capacity for goodness and her protective instincts toward the vulnerable.

Enemies

The Joker

While Catwoman has occasionally allied with the Joker for criminal schemes, their relationship is primarily antagonistic. The Joker’s complete disregard for human life conflicts with Catwoman’s moral code, and his fixation on Batman creates tension. During “Death of the Family,” the Joker targeted Catwoman as part of his attack on Batman’s allies.

Black Mask (Roman Sionis)

Black Mask represents Catwoman’s most personal enemy. During the “War Games” storyline, he captured and brutally tortured her, leaving lasting physical and psychological scars. His subsequent targeting of her sister Maggie made their conflict deeply personal. Catwoman eventually killed Black Mask in retribution, a rare violation of her no-kill code that demonstrated the depth of her trauma.

Two-Face (Harvey Dent)

The former district attorney has been both ally and enemy to Catwoman depending on which personality dominates. Their relationship is complicated by Two-Face’s knowledge of Batman’s identity and his unpredictable nature.

The Penguin (Oswald Cobblepot)

As a fellow Gotham criminal, the Penguin has alternated between business partner and rival. Their relationship is primarily professional, focused on the criminal underworld’s power dynamics.

Hush (Thomas Elliot)

Thomas Elliot specifically targeted Catwoman during “Heart of Hush” due to her relationship with Batman. His surgical removal of her heart represented one of the most horrific attacks she has endured.

The Gotham City Police Department

As a criminal, Catwoman maintains an adversarial relationship with law enforcement. However, her occasional assistance to Batman and protection of certain Gotham neighborhoods have created a complex dynamic where some officers tolerate or even appreciate her activities.

Professional Connections

The Gotham Underworld

Catwoman maintains connections with various criminal figures, fences, and informants throughout Gotham’s underworld. Her reputation as a master thief gives her access to the criminal elite while her independence keeps her from being controlled by any particular organization.

Batman Family

Catwoman’s relationship with Batman’s allies varies: - Nightwing: Generally respectful; he recognizes her importance to Batman - Oracle/Barbara Gordon: Professional respect, occasional information trading - Damian Wayne: Complicated; he views her as an enemy but recognizes her connection to his father - Alfred Pennyworth: Surprisingly warm; Alfred has always been kind to Selina and supported her relationship with Bruce

Intergang and International Criminal Networks

As her operations expanded globally, Catwoman has developed contacts with criminal organizations worldwide, particularly during her time operating in Rome and other European cities.

Catwoman: Adaptations

Live-Action Television

Batman (1966-1968)

The campy ABC television series featured three actresses portraying Catwoman:

Julie Newmar (1966-1967): Newmar originated the role for television, establishing the character’s seductive, playful nature. Her form-fitting black costume and distinctive performance defined Catwoman for a generation. She appeared in 13 episodes across the first two seasons.

Eartha Kitt (1967-1968): Taking over for the third season, Eartha Kitt brought a different energy to the role, emphasizing the character’s feline physicality with distinctive purrs and hisses. Her casting was groundbreaking as one of the first African American women in a prominent villain role on television.

Lee Meriwether (1966 film): Meriwether portrayed Catwoman in the theatrical film spun off from the series when Newmar was unavailable due to other commitments.

Birds of Prey (2002-2003)

The short-lived WB series featured a future Gotham where Catwoman was deceased but appeared in flashbacks. She was portrayed as having been killed by the Joker years before the series’ present day.

Gotham (2014-2019)

The Fox series presented a young Selina Kyle, portrayed by: - Camren Bicondova: Played teenage Selina throughout most of the series, showing her evolution from street orphan to cat burglar - Lili Simmons: Portrayed adult Selina in the series finale

The series established her early connection to Bruce Wayne and her gradual adoption of the Catwoman identity, culminating in her full emergence as the character in the final episodes.

Live-Action Film

Batman Returns (1992)

Tim Burton’s sequel featured Michelle Pfeiffer as Catwoman in a performance widely considered definitive. Pfeiffer’s Selina Kyle was a mousy secretary pushed over the edge by her corrupt boss, Max Shreck. Her transformation into Catwoman was both psychological and physical, with a distinctive stitched leather costume. The film emphasized her fractured sanity and romantic connection to Batman, culminating in a tragic ending suggesting her survival.

Catwoman (2004)

Halle Berry starred in this standalone film, though it featured a different character, Patience Phillips, rather than Selina Kyle. The film introduced a supernatural element with Egyptian cat mythology. Despite Berry’s commitment to the physical performance, the film was critically panned and underperformed commercially.

The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

Christopher Nolan’s trilogy conclusion featured Anne Hathaway as Selina Kyle. While never explicitly called “Catwoman” in the film, her cat burglar persona and costume elements clearly established the character. Hathaway’s portrayal emphasized Selina’s pragmatism and survival instincts, making her an ambiguous ally to Batman against Bane’s forces. The film concluded with her and Bruce Wayne leaving Gotham together.

The Batman (2022)

Zoë Kravitz portrayed Catwoman in Matt Reeves’ noir-influenced film. Her Selina Kyle worked as a waitress at the Iceberg Lounge while seeking revenge for her friend’s murder. Kravitz’s performance emphasized Selina’s righteous anger at Gotham’s corrupt elite and her tentative alliance with Robert Pattinson’s Batman. The film left their relationship open-ended, with Selina leaving Gotham for Blüdhaven.

Animation

Batman: The Animated Series (1992-1995)

Adrienne Barbeau provided the voice for Catwoman in this acclaimed series. The character was portrayed as a socialite and animal rights activist who turned to theft to fund her causes. The series established her complex relationship with Batman and featured her pet cat, Isis. Her design incorporated grey tones rather than black due to animation coloring limitations.

The New Batman Adventures (1997-1999)

The redesigned series featured an updated look for Catwoman with a sleeker, more modern costume. Her episodes continued to explore her moral ambiguity and romantic tension with Batman.

Batman Beyond (1999-2001)

The future-set series revealed that Selina Kyle had a daughter, though her ultimate fate remained ambiguous. A new Catwoman appeared in the future Gotham, unrelated to Selina.

The Batman (2004-2008)

This animated series featured a younger, more athletic Catwoman voiced by Gina Gershon. Her design incorporated more explicit feline elements, including actual cat ears on her costume.

Batman: The Brave and the Bold (2008-2011)

Nika Futterman voiced a more playful, 1960s-inspired Catwoman in this retro-styled series. The lighter tone recalled the campy television series while maintaining the character’s thieving skills.

DC Animated Universe Films

Catwoman has appeared in numerous animated features: - Batman: Year One (2011): Eliza Dushku voiced Selina in this faithful adaptation of Frank Miller’s story - Batman: The Dark Knight Returns (2012-2013): Featured in the future Gotham setting - Son of Batman (2014): Appeared as an antagonist - Batman: Hush (2019): Adapted the famous storyline with Jennifer Morrison voicing Selina - Catwoman: Hunted (2022): An anime-influenced film featuring Elizabeth Gillies as Selina

Video Games

Arkham Series

Batman: Arkham City (2011): Grey DeLisle voiced Catwoman as a playable character with her own storyline. The game established her as a reluctant ally to Batman trapped in the prison city. Her gameplay emphasized stealth and acrobatic combat.

Batman: Arkham Knight (2015): Catwoman played a significant role in the main story, captured by the Riddler and rescued by Batman. Her DLC episodes continued her story after the main game.

Batman: Arkham Origins (2013): Featured a younger Catwoman in the Blackgate prison storyline.

Telltale Batman Series

Batman: The Telltale Series (2016): Laura Bailey voiced a younger Selina Kyle whose relationship with Bruce Wayne could develop romantically based on player choices. The series emphasized her moral complexity and allowed players to determine whether she would become an ally or enemy.

Batman: The Enemy Within (2017): Continued her story with expanded role options based on previous player decisions.

Injustice Series

Injustice: Gods Among Us (2013): Catwoman appeared as a playable character in this alternate universe where Superman became a tyrant. She initially worked with the regime but ultimately sided with Batman’s resistance.

Injustice 2 (2017): Expanded her role with a story mode focusing on her divided loyalties between Batman and a returned Superman.

LEGO Games

Catwoman has appeared in multiple LEGO Batman games, typically as a playable villain character with whip-based abilities and acrobatic skills.

DC Universe Online

The MMORPG features Catwoman as both a quest-giver and a boss character, depending on player alignment.

Radio and Audio

Batman: The Audio Adventures (2021-Present)

This HBO Max audio series features Rosario Dawson as the voice of Catwoman, bringing the character to radio drama format with full production values.

Other Media

Catwoman has appeared in countless merchandise lines, from action figures to clothing to collectibles. She remains one of DC’s most marketed female characters and has been featured in theme park attractions, including Six Flags coasters and Warner Bros. Studio Tours.

Catwoman: Cultural Impact

Pioneering Female Character

Catwoman stands as one of the most significant female characters in comic book history, having predated Wonder Woman’s debut by nearly two years while offering a completely different archetype. Where Wonder Woman represented idealized heroism, Catwoman embodied complexity, moral ambiguity, and self-determination. Her creation in 1940 established that female characters in comics could be more than damsels in distress or simple love interests; they could be formidable adversaries with their own agendas and agency.

Influence on Female Characters in Fiction

Catwoman’s template has influenced countless female characters across media:

The Femme Fatale Anti-Hero: Characters like Black Widow (Marvel Comics), Nikita, and Lara Croft owe debts to Catwoman’s blend of competence, seduction, and moral flexibility. She established that female action heroes could operate in gray areas while remaining sympathetic.

The Hero-Villain Romance: The Batman-Catwoman dynamic has been emulated repeatedly in superhero fiction. The tension between hero and villain with romantic undertones became a staple of the genre, seen in relationships like Daredevil and Elektra, or even Hans Solo and Princess Leia’s initial dynamic.

The Costume Aesthetic: Catwoman’s form-fitting, animal-themed costume established visual conventions for female super-characters that persist today. The combination of practicality (for acrobatics and stealth) with sex appeal created a template that has been both celebrated and critiqued over decades.

Feminist Interpretations

Catwoman has been subject to extensive feminist analysis, with interpretations evolving over time:

Agency and Empowerment: Modern readings emphasize Selina Kyle’s creation of her own identity. Whether escaping prostitution (in some versions) or poverty, she transforms herself through skill and determination. She answers to no one, controls her own sexuality, and defines her own moral code.

Problematic Elements: Critics have noted that Catwoman’s reliance on seduction and her revealing costumes can reduce her to sex appeal. Her initial origin as a prostitute has been debated as either empowering (surviving and transcending) or exploitative (defining her through sexual trauma).

Reclamation: Contemporary creators have generally moved away from the prostitution origin while maintaining her working-class background. The emphasis has shifted to her skills, intelligence, and resilience rather than her sexual history.

Iconic Portrayals and Performances

Certain performances have defined Catwoman for generations:

Julie Newmar established the character’s playful seduction for 1960s audiences.

Michelle Pfeiffer created a portrayal that balanced tragedy, sexuality, and menace, influencing all subsequent interpretations. Her costume, with its visible stitching suggesting DIY construction, became iconic.

Anne Hathaway proved the character could work in a grounded, realistic context, emphasizing competence over camp.

Zoë Kravitz brought a modern social consciousness to the character, emphasizing her righteous anger at systemic inequality.

Merchandise and Marketing

Catwoman ranks among DC Comics’ most merchandised characters. Her image appears on:

• Action Figures: Multiple lines from Mego in the 1970s through modern Mattel and McFarlane Toys collections
• Statues and Collectibles: Premium collectibles from companies like Sideshow Collectibles and Prime 1 Studio regularly feature Catwoman interpretations
• Apparel: Her silhouette and logo appear on clothing worldwide
• Halloween Costumes: Catwoman remains one of the most popular Halloween costumes annually

Fan Culture

Catwoman maintains an extremely dedicated fan following:

Cosplay: She is among the most cosplayed characters at comic conventions globally. The accessibility of her costume (various interpretations range from simple to elaborate) and her recognizable status make her popular among cosplayers of all skill levels.

Fan Fiction: The Batman-Catwoman relationship generates substantial fan fiction exploring various interpretations of their dynamic, from romance to rivalry.

Online Communities: Dedicated forums and social media communities discuss Catwoman comics, adaptations, and collectibles.

Academic and Critical Attention

Catwoman has received significant scholarly attention:

• Comics Studies: Academic books on comics history consistently feature Catwoman as a case study for female character evolution
• Gender Studies: Scholars analyze her representation of female sexuality and agency in popular culture
• Film Studies: Michelle Pfeiffer’s performance has been the subject of multiple academic papers on female performance in superhero films

LGBTQ+ Significance

Catwoman has developed particular resonance within LGBTQ+ communities:

• Her fluid morality and rejection of societal norms have been embraced by queer audiences
• Her relationships with Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn (particularly in Gotham City Sirens) have been interpreted as queer-coded
• The character has been adopted as an icon of sexual fluidity and non-conformity

Lasting Legacy

More than eighty years after her debut, Catwoman remains one of the most recognizable characters in popular culture. She has survived changing social attitudes, multiple reinterpretations, and the evolution of comics from children’s entertainment to a respected artistic medium. Her endurance speaks to the fundamental appeal of her character: a woman who refuses to be defined by others, who takes what she wants, who walks her own path between right and wrong.

In a medium often criticized for simplistic representations of women, Catwoman endures as a complex, contradictory, compelling figure. She is victim and victor, criminal and hero, seductress and fighter, loner and lover. Her multifaceted nature ensures her continued relevance and her place as one of the greatest characters in comic book history.