Bo Derek, with her iconic blonde hair, piercing blue eyes, and unforgettable braided hairstyle, was the epitome of beauty and charm in the late 1970s and 1980s. Known for her sultry on-screen presence, she became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences during her brief yet memorable stint in Hollywood. But as the years passed, fans have wondered what became of this blonde bombshell, why she stepped away from acting, and what her life looks like now. Let’s explore the life of Bo Derek, from her rise to fame to her life today.

The Early Life of Bo Derek

Before she became known as Bo Derek, she was Mary Cathleen Collins, born on November 20, 1956, in Long Beach, California. Raised in a modest, working-class family, her father worked as a sales executive while her mother was a makeup artist. From a young age, Mary showed an interest in two distinct passions—horses and acting. An avid equestrian, she often competed in events and showcased her riding skills. Alongside her love for horses, she nurtured an ambition for acting, taking lessons to hone her craft and prepare for a potential career in the spotlight.

Bo Derek’s Breakthrough in Hollywood

Bo’s Hollywood journey began with small roles, including her appearance in the 1977 film Orca, where her character faced a gruesome fate at the hands of a killer whale. However, her true breakthrough came in 1979 with Blake Edwards’ romantic comedy 10. The film featured Bo in a now-iconic scene, running along the beach with her hair styled in distinctive blonde braids. This hairstyle, combined with her natural beauty, made her an instant sensation.

Following the success of 10, Bo starred in a series of films that showcased her striking looks and on-screen presence. These included Tarzan, the Ape Man (1981), Bolero (1984), and Ghosts Can’t Do It (1990). While these films received mixed reviews, Bo’s popularity continued to rise, solidifying her status as a cultural icon.

Her Relationship with John Derek

Bo’s personal life also became a topic of intrigue. At just 16 years old, she met filmmaker John Derek, who would later become her husband. At the time, John was married to actress Linda Evans, and their relationship caused quite a stir. To avoid the legal complications of their significant age difference—John was 48 and Bo was just 19—the couple traveled to Europe and Mexico, where they could be together without interference. They eventually married in 1976, shortly after Bo turned 19.

Despite the controversy surrounding their union, Bo and John enjoyed a strong partnership, both personally and professionally. John directed several of Bo’s films, often emphasizing her physical appeal to generate attention for his projects. While this approach brought Bo fame, it also limited her career, as she became pigeonholed as a sex symbol rather than a versatile actress.

Bo later reflected on her relationship with Linda Evans, expressing guilt over the pain their affair caused. She once remarked, “I was at least partially to blame for some severe suffering Linda experienced. She was incredibly kind and gracious, and even now, seeing her reminds me of what a wonderful person she is.”

The Legacy of Her Iconic Braided Hairstyle

While John Derek did not direct her most famous film, 10, he played a role in shaping Bo’s iconic look. He suggested the braided hairstyle that became her signature. According to Bo, the idea was to create a distinctive appearance that set her apart from other actresses of the time. The experiment worked, cementing her image as a blonde bombshell with a unique flair.

Life After John Derek’s Passing

In 1998, John Derek passed away at the age of 71 due to cardiovascular illness. Bo was devastated by the loss, describing it as one of the most challenging periods of her life. She never imagined finding love again, but years later, she met actor John Corbett, known for his role in Sex and the City. The couple began dating and, after over two decades together, quietly tied the knot in a private ceremony surrounded by close friends and family.

Bo Derek’s Role as a Humanitarian

Following her Hollywood career, Bo chose to step away from the limelight and focus on her passion for animal welfare. A lifelong equestrian, she became an advocate for preserving and protecting animals, dedicating her time to various causes. Additionally, she served as the honorary chair for the VA’s National Rehabilitation Special Events, supporting initiatives aimed at improving the lives of veterans. Bo once stated, “Helping veterans heal in body and spirit is an honor, and it’s a cause I deeply believe in.”

Where Is Bo Derek Now?

Today, Bo Derek lives a quieter life with John Corbett, balancing her advocacy work with her love for horses. Although she no longer graces the silver screen, her legacy as an icon of beauty and a symbol of 1970s and 1980s Hollywood remains strong. For fans who remember her as the dazzling blonde in 10, Bo Derek will always be a treasured memory of an era defined by her timeless allure and charm.