Catlin Adams, a Los Angeles native, first stepped into the world of film under her birth name, Nira Barab, with a memorable role in Up in the Cellar (1970). In that film, Catlin Adams portrayed the daughter of Larry Hagman and Joan Collins, a character who falls for the allure of a charming young man. After making the move to New York City—where Catlin Adams pursued writing and furthered her studies—she embraced a new identity, adopting the name Catlin Adams, which would soon become synonymous with her rising career. It wasn’t long before she began landing roles, including a part in the NBC TV-movie The Panic in Echo Park (1971). Catlin Adams also immersed herself in the vibrant theater scene, appearing in several Off-Off-Broadway productions that helped sharpen her craft. By the late 1970s, Catlin Adams returned to Hollywood with momentum, securing standout roles such as the enigmatic dominatrix in Steve Martin’s comedy The Jerk (1979) and later portraying the devoted Jewish wife opposite Neil Diamond in The Jazz Singer (1980). Through each phase of her journey, Catlin Adams continued to evolve, leaving a distinct mark on both stage and screen.
When it comes to Catlin Adams, her most acclaimed work by far is The Jerk from 1979—a film that really stands out in her career. Over the years, fans and critics alike have consistently pointed to this movie as the highlight of her filmography. On the other hand, when we look at the lower end of the spectrum, Underworld: Awakening (2012) tends to be viewed much less favorably. While Catlin Adams has been involved in a variety of projects throughout the years, it’s clear that The Jerk remains her highest-rated contribution, whereas Underworld: Awakening unfortunately lands at the bottom. So, if you’re exploring Catlin Adams’s body of work, starting with The Jerk would definitely be the way to go.