The Exciting Life of 80s Icon Bo Derek

By the time Mary was 17, her connection with John Derek had developed into a romantic relationship. John was still married to Linda Evans, the actress known for her work in television and films, making the situation controversial from the beginning.

Their age difference added another serious concern. John was almost three decades older than Mary and held considerable influence over her first acting opportunity and developing career. Linda later described the breakup of her marriage as painful, while Mary increasingly built her life around John. Soon, the couple would make a drastic decision to avoid trouble in California.