Maila Nurmi, known as Vampira, was an American actress and television personality born on January 11, 1922. She gained fame in the 1950s for her role as a horror movie hostess on the television show "The Vampira Show." Her character was characterized by a distinctive gothic appearance, featuring a dramatic black dress and striking makeup, which became iconic in popular culture. In addition to her television work, Nurmi appeared in several films, including Ed Wood's cult classic "Plan 9 from Outer Space." She was a significant figure in the horror genre and influenced later characters, such as Elvira, Mistress of the Dark. Maila Nurmi passed away on January 10, 2023, leaving behind a legacy in horror entertainment.