'OITNB' Character Profile: Norma Romano

Though it may seem weird to think that a character who never speaks could be one of the most interesting, Orange is the New Black’s Norma Romano (Annie Golden) may be one of the most intriguing characters. Out of Red’s (Kate Mulgrew) kitchen aids, Norma is the least known because she hasn’t spoken a word in the whole series. The only time we get to hear her voice is at the Christmas concert in the first season finale, when she decides to sing a solo when Crazy Eyes’ (Uzo Aduba) freezes up and doesn’t sing.

We learn that Norma is one of the most loyal and kind people incarcerated at Litchfield during Red’s flashback to her earlier days in prison. Red had fallen for Vee’s (Lorraine Toussaint) fake offering of friendship and was beaten up by Vee’s crew when she wouldn’t allow Vee to bring drugs through her kitchen. The only person by Red’s side as she was lying on the floor in horrible pain was Norma. She stays by Red’s side throughout the two seasons, and even forgives Red for accidently burning one of the girls who used to work for her in the kitchen. In season 2, Norma proves her loyalty to Red when she plots to kill Vee. It’s surprising to see the nice, quiet Norma planning something so sneaky and violent.

It would be incredible to see a backstory about Norma in order to find out how she ended up in Litchfield. One wouldn’t picture a woman like Norma participating in an illegal activity that would land her prison. Fans would love to know if Norma ever spoke or if it was her reaction to being locked up. Her mysteriousness and gentleness are what make Norma an interesting character.