Karen Summer (July 22, 1962 – December 18, 2023) was an iconic American pornographic actress from the golden age of adult films. Born in Los Angeles, California, as an only child, she grew up in Tarzana and Encino in the San Fernando Valley. Her father, an Oscar-nominated sound engineer, immersed her in show business. Summer started in mainstream entertainment as an extra, photo double, stand-in, and production assistant, notably for 'The Dukes of Hazzard' (1983-1985) and an uncredited role in 'Fast Times at Ridgemont High.'
She launched her adult career in 1982, appearing in over 200 features. Known for her energetic and versatile performances, she starred in classics like 'Confessions of a Candy Striper,' 'Miss American Dream,' 'Taboo 4' and '5,' and 'Rocky X' opposite John Holmes. A hardworking starlet, Summer was inducted into the AVN Hall of Fame and XRCO Hall of Fame in 2015.
She passed away at age 61 from lung failure after a hospitalization around Thanksgiving 2023.