Celebrity Info
John Derek was an actor and director best known for playing a pivotal role in launching the career of his final wife, Bo Derek. Before stepping into the spotlight, he was born into a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry as the son of actor and director Lawson Harris and actress Dolores Johnson. From an early age, John was cast in small film roles, largely due to his striking good looks and family connections. Over the course of his life, he was married four times—to actress Pati Behrs on October 10, 1948; then to Ursula Andress on February 2, 1957; followed by a marriage to Linda Evans in 1968; and finally to Bo Derek, his most famous spouse, on June 10, 1976. Each of these relationships played a significant role in shaping his personal and professional journey.
He actually directed Bo Derek in Tarzan, the Ape Man, you know — it was one of those films that really sparked a lot of discussion at the time. He really took a chance with that project, and honestly, his direction played a big role in shaping how the movie turned out. He definitely had a clear vision, even though the film received mixed reviews overall. He worked closely with Bo Derek throughout production, helping bring her character to life in a way that stood out. Yeah, he truly made his mark with that one.
