Bo Derek is a treasured memory for children of the 1970s. She was one of the most stunning bombshells of her era, with her signature blonde hair, blue eyes, and braided hairstyles that redefined beauty standards.
Many people have wondered about her life since her brief period of stardom: where she ended up, why she quit acting, and what she’s up to now. Let’s see what Bo is doing these days.
The Early Years of Bo Derek
Before becoming Bo Derek, Mary Cathleen Collins was born in Long Beach, California, on November 20, 1956. Raised by working-class parents, her father was a sales executive, and her mother was a cosmetics artist. As a teenager, Mary had two passions: horses and acting. She competed in equestrian events and took acting classes to hone her skills.
Bo appeared in the movie “Orca” (1977), where a killer whale bites off her leg. Her real rise to fame came with Blake Edwards’ 1979 film “10.” It was here that her iconic blond braided hair stood out. Following this, she appeared in action-packed films like “Tarzan, The Ape Man” (1981), “Bolero” (1984), and “Ghosts Can’t Do It” (1990).
Union with John Derek
At just 16, Bo met director John Derek, who would become her husband. John was married to Linda Evans at the time, but they began dating a few years later. Since Bo was still a minor, they had to travel to Mexico and Europe to avoid American laws. John was 48, and Bo was 19 when they married.
In an interview with Interview Magazine, Bo reflected on her guilt over the situation with Linda Evans, saying, “I was at least partially to blame for some severe suffering she experienced. She had been really polite and considerate.
Oddly enough, I only saw her yesterday. She remained equally amazing and delightful as before. Being around her makes me feel like sh*t all the time.”
John and Bo began working together, with John directing her in low-budget films to showcase her looks and generate publicity. This made Bo a household name in Hollywood.
Her Braided Hair Look
Though John Derek didn’t direct her most famous movie, “10,” he did design her braided look. He advised Bo to show Blake some of the photos he had taken. Bo said, “It was the end of the 1970s, and everything was fluffy.
John is a fantastic photographer, and we gave it a shot. Then he remarked, ‘Why don’t you show Blake these photos and see if he’ll be interested?’ It would be excellent for the role, making you look unique.”
Sadly, John Derek passed away from cardiovascular disease in 1998 at the age of 71. Bo was devastated and didn’t think she would ever reconnect with anyone after his passing.
Bo Derek, the Humanitarian and Horsewoman
Bo’s love for horses continued to dominate her life after her acting career. She chose to step back from acting to become an advocate for animal welfare, working hard to protect and preserve animals.
Bo also cares deeply about veterans. She was appointed honorary chair of the National Rehabilitation Special Events by the VA. Bo said, “VA’s National Rehabilitation Special Events promote the healing of body and spirit, which helps veterans enjoy a higher quality of life and improve their independence.
To once again serve as the honorary chair of a truly noble cause on behalf of America’s veterans, I am deeply honored and moved.”
Bo is now married to “Sex and the City” star John Corbett. They have been together for over two decades and chose to wed in secret, in front of only their closest friends and family.
Bo Derek’s story is one of beauty, talent, and a heart dedicated to helping others. Share this tale on Facebook to honor her journey.
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