After retiring from a career in software development, Norman, to the surprise of his family, colleagues, and fellow poker players, became a background actor in local film productions. At the end of 2020, he added another avocation: crossword puzzle constructing. In July, 2021, HBO filmed some scenes of a mini-series near Norm’s home in Woodstock, N.Y. His role in the production rekindled memories of 1970s’ burglaries and espionage.