John Derek, Actor-Director Dies at 71
May 25, 1998 - 0:0
SANTA MARIA, California John Derek, the actor-director reputed to have been the force behind the meteoric career of his wife, Bo Derek, died Friday. He was 71. With family members present, Derek died at 12:45 P.M., said Marian Medical Center spokeswoman Stephanie Grogan. Derek, who had a history of heart trouble, was found unconscious at his Santa Ynez Valley home Wednesday afternoon and underwent lengthy heart surgery.
Dr. Luke Faber said Derek had suffered a catastrophic problem with his aorta and heart. The Hollywood-born Derek began as a movie actor in the 1940s, and despite roles in such notable films as ``All the King's Men,'' ``The Ten Commandments'' and ``Exodus,'' his acting career stalled and he turned to still photography, film directing and producing. (AP)
Dr. Luke Faber said Derek had suffered a catastrophic problem with his aorta and heart. The Hollywood-born Derek began as a movie actor in the 1940s, and despite roles in such notable films as ``All the King's Men,'' ``The Ten Commandments'' and ``Exodus,'' his acting career stalled and he turned to still photography, film directing and producing. (AP)