Bo Derek, born Mary Cathleen Collins on November 20, 1956, in Long Beach, California, is an American actress and model renowned for her captivating performances and iconic status in popular culture. She first gained widespread recognition for her role as Jenny Hanley in the romantic comedy film 10 (1979), a performance that not only showcased her beauty but also solidified her as a sex symbol of the era. This breakthrough role earned her a nomination for the Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year – Actress, propelling her into the limelight.

Derek's journey into the entertainment industry began in her childhood when she worked as a model. Encouraged by a talent agent she met through actress Ann-Margret, she shifted her focus towards acting. Her film debut came in 1972 with Once Upon a Love, which was directed by her first husband, John Derek. The film was ultimately released later as Fantasies in 1981. Following this initial foray into film, she became a household name with 10, leading to a series of collaborations with John Derek, including Tarzan, the Ape Man (1981), Bolero (1984), and Ghosts Can't Do It (1989). Despite the lackluster critical reception of these films, they contributed to her enduring presence in Hollywood.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Derek expanded her repertoire with various roles across genres. She appeared in the dramatic-comedy film A Change of Seasons (1980) and showcased her comedic talent in the American buddy film Tommy Boy (1995), which starred Chris Farley and David Spade. In 2006, she ventured into television with a prominent role in the American telenovela series Fashion House, which further demonstrated her versatility as an actress.

Beyond her cinematic endeavors, Derek has been active in philanthropy and public service. She served as the Honorary Chairperson for Veterans Affairs' National Rehabilitation Special Events, focusing on helping disabled veterans engage in sports and competition. In 2002, she was appointed to the Kennedy Center Board of Trustees by President George W. Bush, underscoring her influence beyond the film industry. Her dedication to environmental causes is reflected in her role as a longtime ambassador for WildAid, and in 2006, she was named Special Envoy of the Secretary of State for Wildlife Tracking Issues.

Derek's commitment to equine welfare is evident in her appointment as a commissioner of the California Horse Racing Board, a position she first held in 2008 and was reappointed to in subsequent years. Her advocacy for horses includes her role as a spokesperson for the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act.

After the passing of her husband, John Derek, in 1998, Derek began a relationship with actor John Corbett in 2002. The couple eventually married in December 2020, marking a new chapter in her life. As of now, Bo Derek remains a notable figure in Hollywood, celebrated for her contributions to film, her charitable work, and her enduring legacy as an icon of beauty and grace.