Eartha Mae Kitt (January 17, 1927 -- December 25, 2008) was an American singer, actress, and cabaret star. She was perhaps best known for her highly distinctive singing style and her 1953 hit recordings of "C'est Si Bon" and the enduring Christmas novelty smash "Santa Baby." Orson Welles once called her the "most exciting woman in the world." Born Eartha May Keith January 17, 1927(1927-01-17) North, South Carolina, U.S. Died December 25, 2008(2008-12-25) (aged 81) Weston, Connecticut, U.S. Occupation Singer/Actress Years active 1943--2008 Spouse John "Bill" McDonald (June 6, 1960--1965)