From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Marilyn Eastman (December 17, 1933 - August 22, 2021) was an American actress known for her role as Helen Cooper in the film Night of the Living Dead (1968). She also appeared in the films Houseguest (1995) and Santa Claws (1996). Contrary to popular belief, Eastman was not married to her co-star from Night of the Living Dead, Karl Hardman, who played her husband in the film. She was married to writer and broadcaster John F. Eastman. However, despite not ...