Bo Derek was a blonde bombshell who captured the world’s attention in the 1979 film 10. With her striking appearance, captivating presence, and unforgettable beach scene, she became an iconic figure in Hollywood. However, after her breakthrough role, she disappeared from the limelight. What happened to Bo Derek, and what is she doing today? Let’s take a look at her journey since becoming a Hollywood star.
A Star Is Born: Bo Derek’s Rise to Fame
Born as Mary Cathleen Collins on November 20, 1956, in California, Bo Derek found herself in the spotlight at an early age, thanks to her mother’s connections in the entertainment industry. With an agent at just 16 years old, Bo was able to break into Hollywood with her first film role in Once Upon a Love. It was during the filming of this movie in Mykonos, Greece, where Bo met her future husband, John Derek. He was 47 years old, and Bo was only 17 at the time, marking the beginning of a relationship that would create media buzz for years.
Despite the scandalous nature of their romance, which began while John was still married to actress Linda Evans, the couple eventually married in Las Vegas in 1976. With John as her husband and manager, Bo’s career began to take off.
The Movie That Changed Everything: 10
Bo Derek’s breakthrough role came in 1979 with the film 10, where she played the beautiful woman who captures the attention of Dudley Moore’s character. The movie was a box-office hit, and Bo became an overnight sensation. In the film, she sported a now-famous look—her cornrowed blonde braids. Interestingly, it was Bo’s husband, John Derek, who suggested she try the braids to stand out and create a distinctive look for her character. The style became a defining feature of Bo’s image and cemented her as an icon of beauty and allure during that time.
Bo Derek, UK, 30th September 1984 (Photo by Georges De Keerle/Getty Images)
Following the success of 10, Bo went on to appear in several other films, many of which were produced by her husband, including Tarzan, The Ape Man (1981), Bolero (1984), and Ghosts Can’t Do It (1990). Unfortunately, these films were met with mostly negative reviews, but Bo remained a prominent figure in Hollywood during the 1980s.
Beyond Hollywood: A New Chapter
After spending much of the 1980s in front of the camera, Bo Derek shifted away from acting in major films. In the 1990s, she made appearances in various television series such as 7th Heaven, Lucky, and Queen of Swords. However, her focus increasingly turned toward advocacy work, especially for causes she deeply cared about, such as animal rights and supporting military veterans.
Bo has always had a passion for horses, particularly the Lusitano breed, and she has written a memoir, Riding Lessons: Everything That Matters in Life I Learned from Horses. She also became an advocate for animal safety and campaigned against horse slaughter, which she believes is a cruel and unnecessary practice.
In addition to her work with animals, Bo became involved with the rehabilitation of war veterans, serving as the honorary chair of the VA’s National Rehabilitation Special Events. Her dedication to improving the lives of veterans and promoting their independence and well-being shows a side of Bo that goes beyond the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.
Love, Marriage, and Family Life
Bo’s personal life saw a major change in 2002 when she met actor John Corbett, best known for his role in Sex and the City. The two were introduced by Hollywood agent Norby Walters, and it didn’t take long for them to form a connection. Despite their 15-year age difference, Bo and John have shared a loving relationship for over two decades. In August 2021, after nearly 20 years together, the couple secretly married in a private ceremony.
Bo has stated that they are both private people, and they didn’t feel the need to make a public announcement about their marriage until they were comfortable sharing the news. Today, they enjoy a quiet life together in California, surrounded by family, including Bo’s sister and their two children.
A Timeless Icon
Even though Bo Derek may no longer be a constant fixture in Hollywood, her legacy as a cultural icon remains intact. She continues to enjoy a fulfilling life with her husband and remains active in the causes she cares about. Her appearance in 10 and her iconic beach scene will forever be etched in pop culture, representing the beauty and style of an entire era.
Bo Derek may not appear in the big films anymore, but she has found happiness and purpose in her personal life and charitable efforts. As a timeless icon, she continues to inspire others, not just for her beauty but for her dedication to making the world a better place.
Wikipedia Commons / Gage Skidmore
Conclusion
Bo Derek’s journey from Hollywood starlet to philanthropist and advocate demonstrates how much one person can evolve and impact the world in multiple ways. From her breakthrough in 10 to her advocacy for veterans and animals, Bo has never been content with just the spotlight. She has carved out a fulfilling life that goes beyond her on-screen persona and continues to make a difference in the lives of others.
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