Norma Eberhardt, a stunning beauty, was born in Oakhurst, New Jersey, and developed a passion for movies at a young age. The turning point in her life came when she was at an Easter Parade event with her mother, and a renowned photographer stopped her, handing her his business card. As she turned 17, she boarded a train and headed straight to New York to find the photographer, only to discover that she needed her mother's signature to model for the photos due to her age. The photographer had to drive her all the way back to New Jersey, and after her mother signed the necessary papers, Norma's modeling career began.
She became a John Robert Powers model and enjoyed a successful stint in New York, which eventually led to a career in television acting. In 1951, Norma made the move to Hollywood, where she was put under contract with Universal International studios. Her first television appearance was followed by her film debut in Sailor Beware (1952),a Martin & Lewis comedy that also starred the late James Dean in a small role.
Norma's first major film role was as Louise, an agoraphobic girl, in Problem Girls (1953),a drama directed by Ewald André Dupont and starring Beverly Garland and Ross Elliot. The film's storyline revolved around a school for troubled girls from wealthy families. In 1955, Norma married French actor Claude Dauphin.
Throughout her career, Norma appeared in numerous television roles, including Whirlybirds (1957),Telephone Time (1956),and Captain Gallant of the Foreign Legion (1955). Her next notable film appearance was in the cult exploitation classic Live Fast, Die Young (1958),alongside Mary Murphy and Mike Connors.
Norma initially resided at The Studio Club For Women, where she met fellow actress Mary Murphy. Her most iconic role remains "Rachel" in The Return of Dracula (1958),a horror film released by United Artists and written by Pat Fielder, with direction by Paul Landres.
