Marsha Jordan, the renowned queen of softcore cinema in the 1960s, was born Carolyn Marcel Jordan in the small Southern town of Gadsden, Alabama. Growing up in a Catholic convent as the granddaughter of a minister, she was instilled with strong moral values. However, she cites John Wayne as her ultimate hero, indicating a fascination with the rugged and unconventional.
Before her foray into the adult film industry, Marsha worked as a stewardess for Delta Airlines, showcasing her versatility and adaptability. Her journey into softcore cinema began during a vacation in Los Angeles in 1960, where she appeared in a string of adult films throughout the 1960s and into the mid-1970s.
Throughout her career, Marsha alternated between lead roles and supporting parts, showcasing her range and versatility. Some of her most notable performances include the titular character in Lady Godiva Rides (1968),Marsha: The Erotic Housewife (1970),and Sweet Georgia (1972). She also appeared in the cult classic Count Yorga, Vampire (1970),alongside Robert Quarry.
Marsha's striking physical appearance, including her sweetly pretty face, long blonde hair, and buxom figure, made her a fan favorite among male audience members. Additionally, her down-to-earth personality earned her a significant female following. She further solidified her fame by making public appearances at movie theaters in the South and Midwest, commanding a fee of $100 to $125 per day or $1,000 per week at the height of her career.
Throughout her career, Marsha worked with legendary "smut cinema" moguls Harry H. Novak and David F. Friedman, appearing in films such as Nude Django (1968) and guest-starring on popular TV shows like Gunsmoke (1955) and Star Trek (1966). She even made a memorable appearance in a TV commercial for Charmin paper towels.
Marsha eventually retired from acting in softcore films in the mid-1970s due to the rising popularity of hardcore pornography. She now resides in San Miguel, California, with her husband John Moore, and they have one son and three daughters together.
