Retired actress Bo Derek, celebrated for her iconic roles in films like 10 and Tarzan, the Ape Man, has turned her passion toward a cause close to her heart: horse welfare. At 66, she has devoted much of her energy to advocating for the protection of horses, particularly against export for slaughter. Her love for these animals began in 1983 when she started a ranch in California and became a breeder of Andalusian horses, a breed she deeply admires for its beauty and temperament.

Derek’s activism centers on the Safeguard American Food Exports (SAFE) Act, legislation designed to end the practice of U.S. horses being purchased by third-party buyers and sent to neighboring countries like Canada and Mexico for slaughter. While domestic horse slaughterhouses in the U.S. closed in 2007, the export loophole has allowed the practice to continue. Derek has long opposed this loophole and remains determined to see the law passed, despite resistance from powerful industry groups such as the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.

Her dedication to the cause has required persistence. Derek has famously recounted writing and calling congressmen repeatedly, sometimes until they voted in her favor just to stop her calls. She encourages others to take similar action, believing that passionate advocacy can make a tangible difference. According to Horses In Our Hands, the organization she works with, efforts to push the SAFE Act forward have seen significant success this year, bringing hope to supporters of horse welfare.

In addition to her activism, Derek has launched a business venture called Bo Derek Pet Care, producing shampoos and other products for animals. Her motivation came from discovering that many existing pet care products were harsh and potentially harmful to animals’ skin. Through this line, she combines her love for animals with practical solutions to improve their wellbeing.

On a personal level, Derek has found happiness with actor John Corbett, whom she met on a blind date. The couple lives a quiet life on a Santa Barbara ranch, sharing their home with four horses and two German Shepherds. Their relationship began after the passing of her first husband, John Derek, in 1998, and has provided her with companionship and stability. Between her advocacy, business, and personal life, Bo Derek continues to live a fulfilling and purpose-driven life away from the Hollywood spotlight.