Yvonne Craig was an American actress and ballet dancer best known for her groundbreaking role as Batgirl in the 1960s television series Batman. Born on May 16, 1937, in Taylorville, Illinois, and raised in Columbus, Ohio, she trained as a ballerina before transitioning into acting. Her graceful physicality and on-screen charisma quickly landed her roles in film and television. Craig’s early career included supporting parts in movies such as Gidget (1959) and It Happened at the World’s Fair (1963), where she starred opposite Elvis Presley. Her combination of charm, athleticism, and comic timing made her a natural fit for television, and her big break came in the late 1960s.

In 1967, Craig joined the cast of the Batman TV series as Barbara Gordon, aka Batgirl, during its third and final season. Her portrayal of Batgirl was historic—it marked one of the earliest depictions of a female superhero on television. As Barbara Gordon, a librarian by day and a caped crusader by night, Craig’s character brought a fresh dynamic to the show. She performed her own stunts and proved that women could hold their own alongside male superheroes. The role earned her a lasting place in pop culture and inspired generations of young viewers, especially girls, to see themselves as capable, clever, and courageous.

Outside of Batman, Yvonne Craig had a diverse acting career throughout the 1960s and ’70s. She appeared in popular TV series like Star Trek, where she played the green-skinned alien Marta in the episode “Whom Gods Destroy,” as well as The Man from U.N.C.L.E., McHale’s Navy, and The Wild Wild West. Her performances were known for their energy and versatility, and she became a familiar face in many households during that era. Though she never achieved leading-lady status in Hollywood, her memorable guest roles left a lasting impression on fans and contributed to her cult following.

After stepping back from acting in the 1980s, Craig pursued a successful career in real estate and became an advocate for various causes. She was especially passionate about equal pay for women and worked with public service campaigns, including one that promoted vaccination against HPV. In later years, she embraced her status as a pop culture icon, frequently attending fan conventions and engaging with her loyal followers. Craig’s appreciation for her fans and her role as Batgirl never faded, and she remained proud of her contributions to television history.

Yvonne Craig passed away on August 17, 2015, after a battle with breast cancer, but her legacy endures. As Batgirl, she broke barriers for women in action roles and helped shape the future of female superheroes on screen. Her trailblazing work continues to be recognized and celebrated by fans of classic television and comic book culture alike. Craig’s life was a testament to the power of grace, courage, and determination—on screen and off.