Full Name and Common Aliases

Eartha Mae Kitt was a renowned American actress, singer, model, and true television personality. She was also known as the "Miss Kitt" of _Batman_ fame.

Birth and Death Dates

Born on January 17, 1927, in St. Matthew's Hospital in North, South Carolina, Eartha Kitt passed away on December 25, 2008, at the age of 82 due to complications from colon cancer.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Kitt was a proud American citizen by birth. Throughout her illustrious career, she worked as an actress, singer, model, and television personality.

Early Life

Eartha Mae Kitt grew up in a poor household with her mother, Anne Bailey, a sharecropper, and her father, William Kitt, a half-white man. Eartha's father abandoned the family when she was just a toddler. Due to poverty and racism, Eartha and her sister moved from town to town throughout their childhood.

In 1940, Eartha and her mother settled in New York City, where they became involved with the city's vibrant arts scene. It was during this time that Eartha began singing and dancing on the streets of Harlem. Her natural talent caught the attention of people working for the famous Billy Rose, who offered Eartha a job singing at his nightclub, the Copacabana.

Major Accomplishments

Eartha Kitt's illustrious career spanned over five decades. Some of her notable achievements include:

Winning two Tony Awards for Best Actress in 1950 and 1976.
Being nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1968 for _Romeo and Juliet_.
Performing on Broadway in musicals such as _Shinbone Alley_ (1957) and _New Faces of 1952_.
Singing the iconic song "C'est Si Bon" which reached No. 10 on the Billboard charts.

Notable Works or Actions

Eartha Kitt's acting career flourished with notable roles in:

Batman as Catwoman (1966-1968)
_Romeo and Juliet_ (1968) - She played the role of The Nurse.
* _Douglas Fairbanks Presents_ (1955-1957), an anthology series where she hosted and starred.

Eartha Kitt also used her platform to speak out on social issues. In 1968, during a White House press conference, Eartha expressed her opinions about the Vietnam War, which led to her being banned from performing at the White House for three years.

Impact and Legacy

Eartha Kitt's impact on popular culture is undeniable. She broke down barriers for African American women in the entertainment industry. Her performances inspired future generations of artists. Eartha's commitment to social justice continues to inspire people today.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Eartha Kitt's unique voice, captivating stage presence, and unwavering commitment to her craft have cemented her place as an iconic figure in American entertainment history. Her legacy serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and talent.