Bo Derek, originally named Mary Cathleen Collins, was born on November 20, 1956, in Long Beach, California, and was raised in a middle-class family. Her father, Paul Collins, was a public relations executive, while her mother, Norma Bass, worked as a hairstylist and makeup artist.
Influenced by her parents’ careers, Bo developed a keen interest in the entertainment industry from an early age.
Her journey to fame began in her late teens when she met John Derek, an actor and director 30 years her senior. They began a relationship and married in 1976 after John divorced actress Linda Evans. John played a pivotal role in shaping Bo’s career.
Bo’s major breakthrough came with the 1979 film “10,” directed by Blake Edwards, where she played Jenny Hanley. The famous scene of her running on the beach in a nude one-piece swimsuit made her an instant sex symbol and propelled her to international fame.
Acting Career
Following the success of “10,” Bo Derek starred in several films throughout the 1980s, including “Tarzan, the Ape Man” (1981), “Bolero” (1984), and “Ghosts Can’t Do It” (1989), all directed by her husband, John Derek. While some of these films were commercially successful, they often received poor reviews from critics. Nonetheless, Bo remained a cultural icon during that period.
Life Beyond Acting
As her film career declined, Bo Derek shifted her focus to other interests. She became an advocate for animal rights and served on the California Horse Racing Board. Additionally, she has been active in various charitable activities and supported veteran causes.
In 2002, Bo published her autobiography, “Riding Lessons: Everything That Matters in Life I Learned from Horses,” providing insights into her life and career.
Bo’s marriage to John Derek lasted until his death in 1998. Their relationship, marked by a significant age difference and professional collaboration, frequently attracted media attention.
After John’s death, Bo found companionship with actor John Corbett, known for his roles in “Northern Exposure” and “Sex and the City.” The couple has been together since 2002, leading a relatively private life.
Her advocacy for animal rights and involvement in charitable activities have further cemented her legacy beyond her acting career.