Barbara Bach

Model-turned-actress Barbara Bach's exotic looks allowed her to pass for characters of several different ethnicities, an asset further aided by her fluency in four languages. She received her big break and most lasting notoriety when chosen to be the newest Bond Girl for "The Spy Who Loved Me" (1977). One of the most striking women to grace the series, Bach's character also proved to be pleasingly intelligent and capable. A key performer in the Bond pantheon, Bach memorably helped advance the evolution of the series' heroines from sex kittens to smart and strong women who existed on an equal plain with Britain's invincible superspy. However, in a major career disappointment, Shelley Hack was chosen over Bach as Kate Jackson's replacement on "Charlie's Angels" (ABC, 1976-1981) and Bach quickly found herself relegated to low-grade fare. A decorative role in "Caveman" (1981) introduced Bach to former Beatle Ringo Starr and a new chapter in her life as his wife. However, years of privilege and indolence led to rampant drug and alcohol abuse by both parties and a frightening instance of domestic violence that left her badly injured. The couple finally got their lives back on track after treatment and managed to stay true to their goal of sobriety. Bach ultimately stepped out of the spotlight, but was remembered fondly for her luminous beauty, which brightened her lesser work and received its most loving showcase in what many considered the best James Bond movie of the 1970s.