Brinke Stevens

Brinke Stevens (born Charlene Elizabeth Brinkman; September 20, 1954) is an American actress, model, and writer. A native of San Diego, Stevens initially pursued a career as a marine biologist prior to becoming an actress, earning an undergraduate degree in biology from San Diego State University before studying marine biology at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Unable to find employment in the field of biology, Stevens began modeling in Los Angeles in 1980, and she worked as a film extra.Her first major film role was in the slasher film The Slumber Party Massacre (1982). She went on to appear in a number of horror films, including Sorority Babes in the Slimeball Bowl-O-Rama (1988), Nightmare Sisters (1988), Grandmother's House (1988), and Mommy (1995).In addition to acting, Stevens has co-written several films, including the comedy horror feature Teenage Exorcist (1991).

Stevens was born Charlene Elizabeth Brinkman on September 20, 1954 in San Diego to Charles Brinkman II, an aircraft riveter, and Lorraine Brinkman. She is of German and Mongolian descent. Stevens was raised in Crest, California along with her brother, Kerry. She graduated from Granite Hills High School in El Cajon, and was a gifted student, becoming a member of Mensa International while still in high school. As a teenager, was a fan of Star Trek, and frequently attended sci-fi-themed conventions. In 1974, Stevens attended San Diego Comic Con and won first place in the first Masquerade Ball. She remained involved in running the masquerade at Comic Con for years after her win.She earned a B.S. degree in biology and psychology from San Diego State University before enrolling to study marine biology at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, California, aspiring to become a marine biologist. Stevens planned to pursue a PhD at the institute, but was barred from completing when it was uncovered that she had incorporated dolphins at SeaWorld as part of her studies, violating the institute's authorization that had given her clearance only to study the vision of seals. Despite this, she was later granted an honorary doctorate.