Actress/singer Eartha Kitt, who rose to fame for singing ‘Santa Baby,’ has passed away in New York from colon cancer complications according to her daughter Kitt Shapiro.

She was performing almost until the end, taping a PBS special six weeks ago in Chicago, Illinois. The show is set to air in February.

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.

She worked in film, theater, cabaret, music and on television during her lengthy career. According to Kitt’s official Web site, she was nominated for a Tony three times, a Grammy and Emmy twice.

Only appropriate that the actress known for singing “Santa Baby” would die on the day that Santa makes his yearly appearance.

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