Zoe Trilling, Star of “Night of the Demons 2,” Passes Away at Age 57

Geralyn Marie Betzler, known by her screen names Geri Betzler and Zoe Trilling, has left behind a legacy of work in the world of film and television from the ’80s and ’90s. Her career featured appearances in various TV series such as Guiding Light, 21 Jump Street, and Married… with Children. She also graced the silver screen in movies like Amityville Horror: The Evil Escapes, They Came from Outer Space, The Borrower, Dr. Giggles, Night Terrors, Hellbound, and Leprechaun 3. However, she is most remembered for her role as Shirley Finnerty in the 1994 horror comedy Night of the Demons 2, where her performance left a lasting impact. Regrettably, it has been confirmed that Betzler / Trilling passed away last month at the age of 57.

Born on May 27, 1966, in Wausau, WI, and passing away on September 8, 2023, in Vista, CA, Geri was a remarkable individual known for her independence and determination. At the age of 18, she relocated from Minnesota to Los Angeles to pursue an acting and dance career. While in LA, she supported herself by working in a bakery and establishing a distributorship for a small fresh juice company, which is known today as Naked Juice. She also taught aerobics, including at Jane Fonda’s studio, and took acting and ballet classes. Her acting career began in 1985, and she appeared in TV series such as Guiding Light. Throughout her career, she performed guest roles in TV series and theater productions in Los Angeles and New York. Her most notable roles were in horror productions, including Genie in Night Terrors and Shirley in Night of the Demons. Later, she transitioned to choreography, working as a choreographer at American Ballroom in New York City and as a yoga instructor and personal trainer in New York and Los Angeles.

Geri is survived by her mother, Phoebe Ruona; brother, Mike Betzler; uncle, Bob Fayfield; step-siblings, Karie Ruona, Mark Ruona, and Julie Ruona; numerous cousins; and lifelong friends, including Loretta Falcone, Michael Libow, Don Schneider, and father, Larry Betzler.

Director Brian Trenchard-Smith, who worked with Zoe Trilling on Night of the Demons 2, paid tribute to her on Facebook, remembering her skill as an actor, her sense of humor, and her warm personality. He also noted her deserved place in a much bigger career. Similarly, director Kevin Tenney, who worked with Trilling in post-production on Pinocchio’s Revenge, recalled her professionalism and immense talent.

Zoe Trilling’s performances have left a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of knowing and working with her. She will be remembered fondly by her family, friends, and fans.