Bo Derek, with her striking blonde hair, piercing blue eyes, and unforgettable braided hairstyle, remains an icon for those who grew up in the 1970s and 1980s. Her brief but memorable career in Hollywood made her a household name and a symbol of beauty and allure. Many fans still wonder about her life after stardom, why she stepped away from the spotlight, and what she’s doing today. Let’s take a look at Bo Derek’s fascinating journey, from her rise to fame to her life as a humanitarian.
The Early Life of Bo Derek
Before becoming Bo Derek, she was Mary Cathleen Collins, born on November 20, 1956, in Long Beach, California. Raised by working-class parents, Mary grew up in a typical American household. Her father worked as a sales executive, while her mother was a makeup artist. From a young age, Mary developed two passions that would shape her life: horses and acting. She was an accomplished equestrian, frequently competing in events and showcasing her skills. At the same time, she pursued acting, taking lessons to refine her talents and prepare for a future in the entertainment industry.
Hollywood Stardom
Bo Derek’s entry into Hollywood came with roles in films like Orca (1977), where she played a character who meets a grisly fate at the hands of a killer whale. However, it was Blake Edwards’ romantic comedy 10 (1979) that catapulted her to fame. In the film, her iconic scene running along the beach with her braided blonde hair captured the imagination of audiences and made her an overnight sensation.
Following 10, Bo appeared in a series of films, including Tarzan, the Ape Man (1981), Bolero (1984), and Ghosts Can’t Do It (1990). While these movies garnered mixed reviews, they cemented her status as a cultural icon. Despite her success, Bo chose not to pursue a career filled with daring action-packed roles, instead focusing on projects that reflected her unique style and persona.
A Controversial Union with John Derek
At the age of 16, Bo met filmmaker John Derek, who would become her husband. At the time, John was married to actress Linda Evans, and his relationship with Bo caused significant controversy. To avoid legal issues due to Bo’s young age, the couple left the United States and lived in Mexico and Europe until she was legally able to marry him.
In 1976, when Bo was 19 and John was 48, they tied the knot. Despite the scandal surrounding their relationship, their marriage proved to be a strong partnership. Bo later admitted to feeling guilty about the pain their affair had caused Linda Evans. Reflecting on their relationship, Bo shared, “Linda was incredibly kind and gracious. Even now, seeing her reminds me of what an amazing person she is.”
Together, Bo and John collaborated on several projects, with John often using his wife’s beauty to draw attention to his low-budget films. These roles helped Bo stay in the spotlight, though critics often questioned the depth of the films she starred in.
The Birth of Her Iconic Braided Hairstyle
Although John Derek didn’t direct 10, he played a significant role in shaping Bo’s image. He suggested the braided hairstyle that became synonymous with her name. Bo explained, “It was the late 1970s, and everything was fluffy and blonde. John thought the braids would make me stand out, and he was right. It became part of who I was.”
John encouraged her to show the look to director Blake Edwards, who loved it and incorporated it into the film. The hairstyle became a defining feature of Bo’s image and contributed to her status as a pop culture icon.
Life After John Derek
In 1998, John Derek passed away at the age of 71 due to cardiovascular illness. His death was a devastating loss for Bo, who never thought she would find love again. However, years later, she met actor John Corbett, best known for his role in Sex and the City. The couple has been together for over two decades, marrying in a private ceremony surrounded by close friends and family.
A Shift to Advocacy and Animal Welfare
After her Hollywood career peaked, Bo chose to step back from acting and focus on her lifelong passion for horses and animal welfare. She became a dedicated advocate, working to protect and preserve animals. Her efforts extended beyond animal rights; she also took on humanitarian roles. Bo was appointed honorary chair of the National Rehabilitation Special Events for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), supporting programs aimed at improving the lives of veterans.
Speaking about her involvement, Bo said, “VA’s National Rehabilitation Special Events promote the healing of body and spirit, helping veterans improve their independence and quality of life. It’s an honor to be part of such a noble cause.”
Where Is Bo Derek Today?
Today, Bo Derek lives a quieter life with John Corbett, balancing her advocacy work with her love for horses. Though she no longer stars in films, her legacy as a blonde bombshell and cultural icon endures. Her story is a testament to how fame can be fleeting but also how one can channel their passion into meaningful endeavors. For those who remember her from the 1970s and 1980s, Bo Derek will always be a symbol of timeless beauty, charm, and grace.
