Two weeks after her birthday, Julie Newmar was still celebrating her 90th year with an intimate dinner with friends. The actress is best known for portraying Catwoman in the “Batman” television show from the 60s.
However, it was not a celebrity or turning a page on the calendar that changed the new nonagenarian’s life. She told Closer that it was the birth of her son, John Jewl Smith, in 1981 that made her “life great.” He was born with Down syndrome.
“Parents should never feel like they have an afflicted child,” she advised. She proudly shared that her “adorable” only child is a gifted artist and mentioned his exhibition at the Washington Reid Gallery in Culver City, California. The star explained:
“He’s the cause of the great expansion of my outlook on life. He’s responsible for my understanding and practice of unconditional love.”
Last year, she uploaded photos from his 41st birthday bash in March. Entertainment was provided by a clown that first donned a chef’s outfit and later a red suit and matching bowler hat.
Born August 16, 1933, she also marked her birthday over multiple days last year. At the beginning of September 2022, she posted a photograph with her son, John Jewl Smith, and other family members at a banquet.
Newmar shares her special day with fascinating people like Madonna, Kathie Lee Gifford, Marvel director Taika Waititi, and Angela Bassett.
‘I’m 100% Guilty as Described,’ Julie Newmar Wrote
Before focusing more on social media, the Broadway talent posted musings about her life on her blog, Julie Newmar Writes. In a post dated May 12, no year specified, she penned her ordeal with “The Big C.”
“Last week was the 7th or 8th surgery for cancer I have had on my face. I don’t understand,” she wrote. “I never went out in the sun. My mother’s advice was always wise.”
The ’60s pinup included an article she found online about the “Emotional Causes of Cancer.” “There are seven stated typical personality traits found in those with cancer,” the survivor stated. “I’m 100% guilty as described.”
Julie Newmar admitted going to Dr. Moelleken, a “fancy doctor in Beverly Hills,” because, as the breadwinner of five people, her “face is important.”