Yvonne Craig, born on May 16, 1937, in Taylorville, Illinois, was an American actress and dancer best known for her portrayal of Batgirl in the 1960s Batman television series. With her vibrant personality, athleticism, and charm, she became a trailblazer for female superheroes on screen.
Craig began her career as a ballet dancer before transitioning to acting in the late 1950s. She appeared in films such as Gidget (1959) and Kissin’ Cousins (1964) alongside Elvis Presley. However, it was her role as Barbara Gordon/Batgirl in Batman (1967–1968) that made her a pop culture icon. As one of the first live-action portrayals of a female superhero, her performance inspired generations of fans.
Beyond Batman, Craig guest-starred in numerous TV series, including Star Trek, where she played the memorable green-skinned Orion slave girl Marta in the episode Whom Gods Destroy. Her career also included voice work and later ventures into real estate and philanthropy.
Craig was a strong advocate for equal rights, particularly for women in television and film. She continued to engage with fans and promote female empowerment throughout her life.
Yvonne Craig passed away on August 17, 2015, but her legacy as Batgirl and her contributions to entertainment continue to be celebrated by fans of classic television and superhero history.