Batman Returns: Michelle Pfeiffer Wasn’t Originally Catwoman

Fans can argue that the most iconic roles in the history of DC characters on cinema belong to both Batman and Superman. They have both been portrayed by many iconic actors such as Christopher Reeve, Michael Keaton, Adam West, and more.

Even Wonder Woman has since been personified by the amazing Gal Gadot. But there’s another woman who has carved her name into the pantheon, even if other fans don’t tend to agree. Michelle Pfeiffer has since claimed the role of Catwoman, even after Julie Newmar, Eartha Kitt, Anne Hathaway, and Halle Berry. While each actor has done their best to establish themselves as the leather-clad jewel thief, Pfeiffer might be the most iconic.

However one of the most memorable actors to ever play the role was almost never cast to begin with.

According to Pfeiffer, who spoke about the gig during the Hollywood Reporter’s own retrospective with the cast and crew for the 25th anniversary, she was never supposed to play Catwoman. The role originally belonged to Annette Bening, much to the dismay of Pfeiffer.

“As a young girl, I was completely obsessed with Catwoman. When I heard that Tim was making the film and Catwoman had already been cast, I was devastated,” Pfeiffer said. “At the time, it was Annette Bening. Then she became pregnant. The rest is history. I remember telling Tim halfway through the script that I’d do the film, that’s how excited I was.”

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Many actors have portrayed Catwoman in both live action films and animated movies and TV shows, but few have had the impact that Pfeiffer has had as the character.

Ben Affleck will reprise his role as Batman in the forthcoming Justice League. While rumors have swirled about, no one has yet to be cast as Catwoman in the new DC extended universe for film.

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