Julia Chalene Newmeyer, a talented individual, was born on August 16, 1933, in Los Angeles, California, as the eldest of three children. Her father, Don, had a brief stint as a professional football player, while her mother, Helene Jesmer, was a star of the Follies of 1920 and later became a fashion designer known as Chalene. From a young age, Julie was exposed to various artistic pursuits, including piano, dance, and classical ballet.
Julie graduated from high school at the age of 15 and spent a year touring Europe with her mother and brother. She eventually became the prima ballerina for the Los Angeles Opera and attended UCLA, where she classical piano studied, philosophy, and French. Her academic pursuits were complemented by her passion for the arts.
Newmar's journey to the stage began in New York, where she tried out for various Broadway musicals. Her breakthrough role came in 1955 with her debut as the ballerina in "Silk Stockings." She received critical acclaim for her portrayal of Stupefyin' Jones in "Li'l Abner," but it was her sense of humor that she truly desired to be recognized for.
Julie Newmar's impressive career spanned multiple mediums, including television and film. She made a memorable appearance in Rod Serling's science-fiction series The Twilight Zone, playing the role of Miss Devlin, also known as the devil. Her iconic portrayal of Rhoda the Robot in the sitcom My Living Doll (1964) earned her a cult following.
Newmar's most notable role was that of Catwoman in the popular television series Batman (1966). Although she was unavailable for the third season due to a movie commitment, her iconic performance left a lasting impression on audiences. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, she continued to appear in numerous television series and stage productions, including "Damn Yankees" and "Dames at Sea."
In addition to her acting career, Newmar also ventured into entrepreneurship. In 1977, she was featured in People magazine showcasing her innovative invention, Nudemar pantyhose. The 1980s saw her appear in nine films while balancing her personal life and real-estate business. She even took a few real-estate courses at UCLA.
Newmar's dedication to her craft continued well into the 1990s. She toured in a stage production of "The Women" and occasionally attended fan conventions, showcasing her enduring beauty and charm. Her remarkable journey is a testament to her versatility, talent, and dedication to her craft.
