04/05/2025
Gotta love those Ginger kitties!
The unforgettable Orangey (1950–1967), the most accomplished cat actor in Hollywood history—a true thespian with a résumé that outshines many human stars. Trained by legendary animal handler Frank Inn (who also worked with Benji and Arnold the Pig from Green Acres), Orangey wasn’t just a talented performer—he was a two-time Patsy Award winner (the animal equivalent of an Oscar), making him the only cat to ever achieve such an honor.
Orangey’s filmography is nothing short of iconic. He brought quiet intensity to Raymond Burr’s sci-fi classic The Incredible Shrinking Man (1957), lent poignant realism to The Diary of Anne Frank (1959), and stole scenes as “Cat” (the “poor slob without a name”) in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961), lounging alongside Audrey Hepburn in one of cinema’s most beloved moments. But his career didn’t stop there—Orangey capped off his legendary run in 1967 as Eartha Kitt’s sly feline companion in two episodes of Batman, purring his way into pop culture history as the perfect sidekick to TV’s most iconic Catwoman.
Known for his striking marmalade coat and unflappable professionalism, Orangey worked with Hollywood’s biggest stars, navigating complex sets with remarkable patience—a rarity for a cat actor. Unlike many animal performers, he wasn’t easily distracted, earning a reputation as one of the most reliable (and well-paid) feline stars of his era.
After a 17-year career, Orangey passed away in 1967, leaving behind a legacy as Tinseltown’s greatest cat actor. Fittingly, he was laid to rest at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Hollywood, a final resting place befitting a true star. As we celebrate International Cat Day, let’s remember Orangey’s unmatched contributions to film and TV—proof that some legends really do have nine lives.
“A cat’s got his own opinion of human beings. He don’t say much, but he’s heard it all.” —Mark Twain (a sentiment Orangey surely would’ve approved of). 🐈🎬
