She made her foray into the world of pornographic movies during her junior year, in 1984. Her debut performance was in the film Educating Nina which was produced by the veteran porn star Juliet Anderson, and this proved to be a massive hit. Since then she has gone on to feature in over 400 first-run adult films, and has become one of the most enduring and recognisable performers in the industry.

She is best known within the adult film industry for her bubble butt buttocks, and her anal and lesbian scenes.

Hartley crossed over into mainstream Hollywood with an appearance in the 1997 film Boogie Nights in which she played a porn star.

Hartley has been an advocate for the adult film industry's right to exist, and, prior to the rise to stardom of Jenna Jameson, had often been called upon when television news programs and talk shows required an articulate, leading adult film actress to support the pro side. She appeared most notably on the Oprah Winfrey show with fellow porn actress Ona Zee. The two came under hard scrutiny from the mostly female audience, but refused to back down and were outspoken in their support of the industry. She and Ona Zee also spoke strongly out against illegal drugs in the industry.

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