For those who grew up in the 1970s, Bo Derek remains an enduring icon. Known for her stunning looks, signature blonde hair, piercing blue eyes, and unforgettable braided hairstyles, Bo captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. But as time passed, many fans began to wonder—where did she go? What led her to step back from Hollywood? And what is she doing today? Let’s take a journey through her life and find out.
Bo Derek’s Early Years: The Beginning of a Star
Before becoming the Hollywood sensation known as Bo Derek, she was born Mary Cathleen Collins on November 20, 1956, in Long Beach, California. Raised in a typical American household, Mary grew up with her father, a hardworking sales executive, and her mother, a cosmetics artist.
From a young age, Mary developed two great passions: horses and acting. She became an avid horse rider, competing in numerous events and showcasing her talent in equestrian sports. At the same time, she had a deep interest in acting, prompting her to take classes to hone her skills and pursue a career in the entertainment industry.
Breaking Into Hollywood: From “Orca” to “10”
Bo Derek’s first break came in 1977 with the film Orca, where she played a character whose leg is bitten off by a killer whale. However, it was her role in Blake Edwards’ 1979 hit film 10 that catapulted her to stardom. With her sun-kissed skin, braided blonde hair, and undeniable screen presence, Bo became an instant icon. Her look in the film became a cultural phenomenon, symbolizing beauty and confidence.
Following the success of 10, Bo appeared in several films during the 1980s, including Tarzan, the Ape Man (1981), Bolero (1984), and Ghosts Can’t Do It (1990). Despite her popularity, Bo chose not to chase a high-profile Hollywood career filled with action-packed roles. Instead, she focused on projects that aligned with her interests and personal life.
The Controversial Relationship with John Derek
Bo Derek’s personal life became just as much of a headline as her acting career. At the age of 16, Bo met John Derek, a renowned director who was 30 years her senior. At the time, John was married to actress Linda Evans. The two began a relationship, which was controversial due to Bo being a minor. To avoid legal complications in the United States, they traveled to Mexico and Europe together.
The couple married when Bo was 19, and John was 48. In a candid interview with Interview Magazine, Bo reflected on her relationship with Linda Evans, admitting, “I always felt a pang of guilt whenever Linda was around. She was incredibly kind and gracious, but I knew I had caused her pain.” Despite the complicated start, Bo and John remained married until his passing in 1998.
Crafting Her Iconic Braided Look
While John Derek did not direct 10, he was instrumental in crafting Bo’s signature braided hairstyle that became her trademark. The idea came about when John, a talented photographer, suggested a look that would set her apart. “At the end of the 1970s, everything was fluffy and blonde. John thought the braids would be a striking look for me, so we decided to try it,” Bo recalled. Blake Edwards loved the look, and it became an iconic part of the film, forever cementing Bo’s image in pop culture.
Life After Losing John Derek
In 1998, Bo faced a heartbreaking loss when John Derek passed away from cardiovascular disease at the age of 71. The couple had shared a deeply personal and creative life together, and his death left Bo devastated. She admitted she never thought she would find love again after losing him. However, life had other plans.
Years later, Bo met actor John Corbett, best known for his role in Sex and the City. The two began a relationship that has now spanned over two decades. In 2020, after being together for nearly 20 years, they decided to marry quietly, away from the public eye, with only close friends and family in attendance.
A Life Beyond Hollywood: Bo Derek the Humanitarian
As Bo Derek stepped back from the Hollywood spotlight, she found new passions that focused on making a positive impact. Her love for horses never faded, and she dedicated herself to equestrian pursuits. However, her true calling emerged in the realm of animal advocacy. Bo became a prominent voice in animal rights, working tirelessly to protect and care for various species.
Bo’s humanitarian efforts didn’t stop with animals. She was honored as the National Rehabilitation Special Events Chair by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Reflecting on her role, Bo said, “VA’s National Rehabilitation Special Events promote healing of both body and spirit, helping veterans achieve better quality of life and independence. It’s a true honor to serve as an honorary chair for such a noble cause.”
Bo Derek’s Enduring Legacy
While Bo Derek may no longer be gracing the big screen, her legacy endures. She remains a beloved figure for her iconic roles, her timeless beauty, and her commitment to causes that matter to her. Her life story is one of reinvention, resilience, and dedication—not just to her craft but to the things she cares deeply about.
Bo has shown that there is more to life than fame and glamour. Today, she continues to enjoy a quiet life with John Corbett, focusing on her passions for animal welfare and supporting veterans. For fans who remember her from the golden era of the 1970s, Bo Derek will always be that timeless beauty running on the beach in 10. But for those who know her today, she is a dedicated advocate, an animal lover, and a woman who has lived life on her own terms.
As Bo Derek moves forward, her name remains etched in the hearts of her fans, not just as a Hollywood bombshell but as a person who chose a meaningful path beyond the spotlight. Her story reminds us all that reinvention is possible, and that true fulfillment often comes from giving back.
