Maila Nurmi, best known as TV's "Vampira."
Nurmi horror-hosted the Vampira show in the mid-1950s in my hometown of Hollywood, setting the stage for sexy vamp horror hostesses long before anyone else. She was quite a sensation in the ultra-conservative '50s, with her smoldering sensuality, tiny wasp-waist, and super villain eyebrows. LOVED her!!!
(The Munsters and the Addams Family shows were not to be for nearly a full decade; the Elvira show did not become a reality until almost 30 years later)
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In the late '80s and early '90s, I used to see her occasionally walking around in Hollywood. She was tall, very thin, and had a determined, regal sort of strut, very purposeful. I always wanted to approach her and find a reason - ANY reason! - to speak with her ... but was far too shy to do so. How I wish I had!
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There was one time in particular in 2004, when me and my Dad were having lunch at a fancy restaurant in the Burbank/North Hollywood area. About halfway through our meal, in walked Ms. Nurmi, followed by three or four men who were less than half her age. She sat directly behind me, and proceeded to give the young gentlemen an interview. My mouth went dry... I couldn't speak, couldn't eat! I kept trying to "casually" turn my head to look around to see her... OMG! I could have reached over and tapped her on the shoulder, she was that close to me. My Dad thought it was hilarious and just laughed at me, but I squeaked to him that "Vampira's butt is right next to mine!"
RIP, you wonderful Glamour Ghoul... 1921-2008
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