Nina Hartley

Nina Hartley is the stage name of Marie Louise Hartman, an American pornographic film actress, director, and sex educator.

Nina Hartley is the stage name of Marie Louise Hartman, an American pornographic film actress, director, and sex educator. Born in Berkeley, California, she began her adult-entertainment career in the 1980s and became one of the best-known figures in the industry. She has also appeared in mainstream film and public discussions of sexual health and sex-positive feminism.

Early life and education

Hartley was born Marie Louise Hartman in Berkeley, California, and later studied nursing at San Francisco State University. Sources say she graduated from nursing school before fully transitioning into adult entertainment.

Adult film career

Hartley entered adult entertainment in the 1980s and made her film debut in Educating Nina (1984). She became one of the industry’s most prolific and recognizable performers, with more than 1,000 adult-film appearances reported by 2017.

Public image and advocacy

Hartley is widely described as a sex educator and advocate for sex-positive feminism and sexual freedom. She has also been presented in media coverage as an outspoken feminist and a public spokesperson for the adult industry.

Mainstream work

Hartley appeared in the 1997 film Boogie Nights, which brought her wider mainstream recognition. That role is one of the best-known non-adult-screen credits associated with her career.