Diane Varsi, born Diane Marie Antonia Varsi on February 23, 1938, in San Mateo, California, was an American film actress best known for her performances in "Peyton Place" and "Wild in the Streets." She grew up in a challenging environment, with her parents Russell Varsi, a florist, and Beatrice DeMerchant.

Diane Varsi had a troubled childhood, dropping out of high school and working various jobs such as a waitress, dress shop model, and fruit picker before pursuing acting.

Her breakthrough came when she was cast as Allison MacKenzie in the 1957 film "Peyton Place," for which she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress and a Golden Globe Award for Most Promising Newcomer. She studied poetry at Bennington College in Vermont and became involved in various artistic endeavors.

In addition to "Peyton Place," she appeared in several other films, including "From Hell to Texas" (1958), "Ten North Frederick" (1958), and "Compulsion" (1959). She also starred in the cult film "Wild in the Streets" (1968). Her career was marked by her rebellious nature and her desire to avoid the spotlight, leading her to turn down many roles.

Diane Varsi was married three times, first to James Dickson, then to Michael Hausman, and finally to Russell Parker. She had two children, Shawn Michael and Jennifer.

Diane Varsi passed away on November 19, 1992, in Los Angeles, California.