At 69, Bo Derek proved that Hollywood’s golden era still has sparkle when she stepped out at the 41st annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival this week. The actress, who became an instant sensation for her unforgettable beach run in the 1979 romantic comedy 10, appeared radiant on the red carpet in a chic black turtleneck topped with a cream coat a picture of effortless elegance that had cameras clicking.
Derek’s rise to stardom began nearly five decades ago when her braided-blonde look and iconic scene alongside Dudley Moore captivated audiences around the world. While many stars from that era have faded from the public eye, Derek’s presence at this year’s event underscored her enduring appeal.
At the festival’s Arlington Theatre, she proudly presented the Montecito Award to Swedish actor Stellan Skarsgård, reminding fans and critics alike of her long, varied journey in entertainment. Although she pursued roles in films like Tommy Boy and Tarzan the Ape Man, it’s that early performance in 10 that remains etched in pop-culture history.
Off camera, Derek’s life in Santa Barbara, USA is delightfully low-key. Reflecting on her daily routine in an earlier interview, she said, “Right now, if I’m home, I wake up, make coffee, feed the horses, feed the dogs, feed myself…” a charming snapshot of her simple rhythms away from Hollywood’s bustle.
Her longtime partner, actor John Corbett, remains a source of joy in her life. Derek told Entertainment Tonight, “It’s that twinkle in his eye. His humor. He has a lot of joy in him and I feed off of it.” Their two-decade-long bond, anchored in laughter and everyday pleasures, seems as timeless as Derek’s own legacy.
