Yvonne Craig (1937–2015) was an American actress and ballet dancer who captured hearts as Batgirl in the iconic 1960s Batman TV series. Born in Illinois and raised in Ohio, she initially trained as a ballerina before making the leap to acting. Her early roles included appearances in Gidget (1959) and It Happened at the World’s Fair (1963), where she starred alongside Elvis Presley. But it was in 1967 that she truly made her mark, stepping into the role of Barbara Gordon/Batgirl. As one of TV’s first female superheroes, Craig redefined the role of women in action series, performing her own stunts and inspiring a whole generation of viewers.
Beyond Batman, Craig graced the small screen with unforgettable guest spots on shows like Star Trek, The Man from U.N.C.L.E., and The Wild Wild West. Though she never became a leading lady, her memorable performances won her a devoted following that endures to this day.
After retiring from acting in the 1980s, Craig turned to real estate and dedicated herself to advocacy, championing women’s rights and public health causes.
Yvonne Craig remained incredibly proud of her Batgirl legacy throughout her life, often connecting with fans who cherished her role. She embraced her place in pop culture, attending conventions and sharing stories from her time as one of TV’s first female superheroes. Her enduring connection with her fans only deepened her status as a beloved icon, leaving a lasting impact on generations of viewers.
Yvonne Craig passed away in 2015 after a brave battle with breast cancer. She is remembered not only as a trailblazer for women in action roles but also as a lasting pop culture icon. Her portrayal of Batgirl broke new ground for female superheroes on television, inspiring countless fans and paving the way for future generations of women in action-packed roles. Her legacy continues to shine, both in her unforgettable performances and in the impact she had on the entertainment industry.
