Yvonne Craig, Who Originated Batgirl Role, Dies At 78

Yvonne Craig, the first actress to ever play the part of Batgirl, died on Monday following a battle with breast cancer. She was 78.

Yvonne Craig Dies

Craig’s family announced her passing in a statement Tuesday, revealing that she died surrounded by loved ones at her Pacific Palisades, Calif., home.

“She felt that she lived a wonderful life and was blessed in many ways,” the statement said. “She was able to travel the world and see many places. Yvonne spent quality time with those that she loved and was able to accomplish many goals and ambitions that she set for herself. “

Craig was best known for playing Batgirl/Barbara Gordon in 60s TV series Batman alongside series stars Adam West and Burt Ward. Previously, the Illinois-born actress had been a member of the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo and had picked up a number of TV credits, including in Perry Mason, High Time, The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis, 77 Sunset Strip and The Man from U.N.C.L.E.

Following Batman, Craig continued to act predominantly on TV, landing guest-starring roles on Mod Squad, Star Trek, The Partners, The Six Million Dollar Man, Starsky and Hutch and Fantasy Island. Her film roles included Kissin’ Cousins with Elvis Presley and Mars Needs Women.

Craig’s last credit was voicing the Grandma character in animated Nickelodeon series Olivia.

Craig is survived by her husband, sister and nephews.