Eartha Mae Kitt, born on January 17, 1927, in North, South Carolina, was an extraordinary talent whose journey from a tumultuous childhood to international stardom remains a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of art. Her undeniable charisma, sensuality, and vocal prowess led her to become one of the most iconic performers of the 20th century.
The Early Years
Kitt’s early years were fraught with difficulties. Born to a mixed-race mother, Annie Mae Keith, and an unknown white father, she grew up in a society where being of mixed heritage was a significant social stigma. Consequently, she experienced abandonment and severe poverty. After her mother’s death, young Eartha was sent to live with an aunt in Harlem, New York, at just eight years old.
Life in Harlem brought new challenges for Kitt but also opportunities. The cultural mecca of Harlem in the 1930s and 1940s became her training ground. She attended the Metropolitan Vocational High School, where she studied music and dance. Eartha’s exceptional talent was evident from the start, and her dedication to honing her skills would eventually open doors to a world beyond her wildest dreams.
Career Beginnings
Eartha Kitt’s career began in earnest when she joined the famed Katherine Dunham Dance Troupe as a teenager. With the troupe, she toured internationally, performing in Europe, South America, and Mexico. During a performance in Paris, Kitt caught the eye of a renowned nightclub owner, Carroll Reed. He offered her a chance to perform solo at his club, The Blue Angel. This opportunity would prove to be the turning point in her career.
In 1950, Orson Welles cast Kitt as Helen of Troy in his “Doctor Faustus” stage production, further cementing her status as a rising star. Her performance garnered rave reviews, and Welles himself famously referred to her as “the most exciting woman in the world.”
Singing Sensation
Kitt’s sultry, distinctive voice and her ability to sing in multiple languages made her a hit with audiences worldwide. She recorded her first album, “RCA Victor Presents Eartha Kitt,” in 1953. The album featured her signature song, “C’est Si Bon,” which showcased her seductive vocal style and captured the hearts of listeners.
Throughout the 1950s, Kitt released a series of successful albums, including “That Bad Eartha” and “Down to Eartha,” featuring hits such as “I Want to Be Evil” and “Santa Baby.” These songs showcased her unique ability to combine theatricality, sensuality, and a touch of humor, turning her into an international sensation.
The small screen beckoned, and Kitt made her television debut in 1953 on the “Colgate Comedy Hour.” She continued appearing on various TV shows throughout the decade, enchanting viewers with her magnetic presence and unforgettable performances.
Iconic Roles
Eartha Kitt’s acting career took off in the 1960s, as she secured a number of iconic roles that showcased her versatility as a performer. Her most memorable role came in 1967 when she was cast as Catwoman in the third season of the popular “Batman” television series. With her slinky, feline grace, and alluring voice, she became an instant fan favorite, leaving an indelible mark on the character’s legacy.
Kitt’s stage and screen career flourished during this time, with roles in films such as “Synanon” and “Up the Chastity Belt.” She also made a splash on Broadway, starring in the 1965 production of “The Owl and the Puss
Here are some fabulous photos of Young Eartha Kitt from her career.
