Singer, actress Eartha Kitt dies at 81

Eartha Kitt

Eartha Kitt as "Catwoman

Singer and actress Eartha Kitt has died, her publicist, Patty Freedman, told CNN on Thursday. She performed almost until the end of her life.

Her recording of the saucy Christmas song "Santa Baby" was certified gold last week.

Kitt was well known for her distinctive voice and made a name for herself in her portrayal of Catwoman in the television series "Batman." That role produced Kitt's recognizable sultry cat growl.