In June 1952, legendary photographer Gordon Parks created a memorable series of portraits featuring Eartha Kitt for LIFE magazine.The photo essay captured intimate and stylish moments of Kitt while she performed at New York City's Blue Angel nightclub during the early peak of her career.The photographs included Kitt with kittens, riding a bicycle in the streets of New York, rehearsing at the nightclub, and quietly reflecting at home.

Parks, notable as LIFE's first Black staff photographer, was celebrated for documenting both the stark realities of social issues and the glamour of high-profile personalities.

Years later, Kitt would become the first Black woman to portray Catwoman in the 1960s Batman television series, cementing her legacy as an iconic and trailblazing performer.

Praised by Orson Welles as “the most exciting woman in the world,” Kitt’s elegance, independence, and sharp wit often earned her the media description of being “cat-like.” Parks’ photographs not only showcase her charm and style but also provide a historical snapshot of a rising star in mid-20th century America.