The Exciting Life of 80s Icon Bo Derek

Through connections involving Ann-Margret, the 16-year-old Mary auditioned for actor and filmmaker John Derek. He was preparing a romantic drama initially titled Once Upon a Love and selected the inexperienced teenager for one of its central roles.

John was already an established Hollywood figure and was married to actress Linda Evans when they met. For Mary, the project offered her first substantial chance to act in a movie and travel outside the United States. The professional relationship quickly placed her under his strong creative influence, but their connection would not remain limited to the film set.