Bo Derek, originally named Mary Cathleen Collins, was born on November 20, 1956, in Long Beach, California.
She grew up in a middle-class family with her father, Paul Collins, who worked as a public relations executive, and her mother, Norma Bass, a hairstylist and makeup artist.
Bo had a keen interest in the entertainment industry from a young age, heavily influenced by her parents’ involvement in the field.
Bo Derek’s rise to fame began in her late teens. She met John Derek, a well-known actor and director, who was 30 years her senior. They began a relationship and eventually married in 1976 after John divorced his then-wife, actress Linda Evans. John played a pivotal role in shaping Bo’s career.
Her breakthrough came with the film “10” (1979), directed by Blake Edwards, where she played the role of Jenny Hanley. The iconic scene of her running on the beach in a nude one-piece swimsuit turned her into an instant sex symbol and catapulted 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 of which were directed by her husband, John Derek.
Despite the commercial success of some of these films, they often received negative reviews from critics. Nonetheless, Bo maintained her status as a cultural icon during this period.
Life Beyond Acting
After the decline in her film career, Bo Derek shifted her focus to other pursuits. She became an advocate for animal rights and served on the California Horse Racing Board. Additionally, she has been active in various charitable endeavors and has worked to promote veteran causes.
In 2002, she published her autobiography, “Riding Lessons: Everything That Matters in Life I Learned from Horses,” offering insights into her life and career.
Bo Derek’s marriage to John Derek lasted until his death in 1998. Their relationship, marked by a significant age difference and professional collaboration, was often a subject of media interest.
After John’s passing, Bo eventually 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, living a relatively private life.
Her work in animal rights and other charitable activities has also cemented her legacy beyond her acting career.