Yvonne Craig was an American actress and ballet dancer, best remembered for her groundbreaking role as Batgirl in the 1960s Batman TV series. Born on May 16, 1937, in Taylorville, Illinois, and raised in Columbus, Ohio, Craig trained as a ballerina before shifting to acting. Her grace and charisma quickly earned her roles in both film and television, with early appearances in movies like Gidget (1959) and It Happened at the World’s Fair (1963), where she starred alongside Elvis Presley. Her unique blend of charm, athleticism, and comedic timing made her a natural fit for TV, and she got her big break in the late ’60s.
In 1967, Craig joined the Batman TV series as Barbara Gordon, aka Batgirl, in its third and final season. Her portrayal was groundbreaking, marking one of the first female superheroes to appear on television. Batgirl, a librarian by day and a crime-fighter by night, brought a new dynamic to the series. Craig performed her own stunts, showing that women could stand strong alongside male superheroes. The role secured her a lasting place in pop culture and inspired generations of young viewers, particularly girls, to see themselves as strong, clever, and courageous.
Beyond Batman, Craig had a diverse career in the 1960s and ’70s, appearing in popular TV shows like Star Trek (where she played the green-skinned alien Marta in “Whom Gods Destroy”), The Man from U.N.C.L.E., McHale’s Navy, and The Wild Wild West. Known for her energy and versatility, she became a familiar face in many households. Though she never reached leading lady status in Hollywood, her guest roles earned her a dedicated fan base and a cult following.
After retiring from acting in the 1980s, Craig pursued a successful real estate career and became an advocate for causes such as equal pay for women and public health campaigns, including one promoting HPV vaccination. In her later years, she embraced her iconic status, attending fan conventions and staying connected with her loyal followers. She remained proud of her legacy and her role as Batgirl, which continued to inspire.
Yvonne Craig passed away on August 17, 2015, after battling breast cancer. Her legacy lives on as a trailblazer for women in action roles, helping to shape the future of female superheroes. Her contributions to television and comic book culture remain celebrated, and her life is a testament to grace, courage, and determination—both on screen and off.