Back to the '70s: Revisiting Your Celebrity Crushes and Seeing Where They Are Now
By Sarah Norman | May 21, 2024
Then: Debbie Harry Made Waves With Blondie
Fasten your seat belts, folks! We're about to jet back to the flamboyant, flare-filled 1970s, when hairstyles reached for the sky, disco reigned supreme, and everyone had their sights set on dating these groovy gals. From Debbie Harry's platinum blonde hair to Cher's daring fashion choices, these women set hearts racing and made the '70s a decade to remember.
Now, we're not just paying homage to their past glories. Get ready to peer through the lens of time to see how these captivating queens of cool have evolved. This gallery is a visual treat of then-and-now snaps that might make you do a double take! So, what are you waiting for? Dust off your bell-bottoms, and let's see what your celebrity crush from the '70s has been up to in the last few decades!
Debbie Harry, the lead singer of Blondie, burst onto the music scene in the '70s with a head full of peroxide blonde hair and a voice that was pure dynamite. With her punk-infused pop and her 'devil may care' attitude, she was the stuff of both teenage dreams and rebellious anthems. From "Heart of Glass" to "Call Me", Harry and her band were tearing up the charts, while she was tearing down the house with her edgy looks and killer confidence. Harry was every inch the quintessential '70s bombshell - glamorous, edgy, and undeniably talented. She was the girl every guy wanted to date and every girl wanted to be. Her iconic style was emulated by fans across the globe, from the distressed tees and leather jackets to her statement smoky eyes.
Then: Jane Fonda Turned Heads and Made Noise
Jane Fonda has always been more than just an actress; she's a revolution. From her Academy Award-winning role in Klute to her political activism against the Vietnam War, Fonda became the face of a changing era in the '70s. Her daring, often controversial stances, combined with her unforgettable talent and breathtaking looks, made her a force to be reckoned with. And we can't forget her 70's style! From her shag haircut to her audacious fashion choices, Fonda was as much a trendsetter as she was an actress and activist. No one could rock a leotard and leg warmers quite like Jane.
Now: Jane Fonda Is Still Stirring Things Up
So, what's our favorite '70s revolutionary been up? Well, for starters, she's still challenging norms and standing up for what she believes in. Jane Fonda is a proud feminist and staunch supporter of LGBTQ+ issues, and her recent involvement in climate activism shows that her passion for change has not faded. She was arrested as recently as 2019 for protesting climate change outside the U.S. capitol. Keep fighting the good fight, Jane!
On the screen, Fonda's still just as captivating as ever, whether she's getting into mischief with co-star and close friend Lily Tomlin on Grace and Frankie or lighting up the big screen in 80 For Brady. And while her style may have evolved over the years, she's still the queen of the red carpet.
Then: Goldie Hawn Was Making The World Laugh
In the '70s, Goldie was the undeniable darling of Hollywood. With her expressive eyes, infectious laughter, and undeniable comedic timing, she charmed her way into the hearts of millions. Whether it was her Oscar-winning performance in Cactus Flower or her playful antics on Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In, Goldie was the gal everyone wanted to hang out with. She was not just an actress, she was an experience – pure joy bottled in a petite, blonde package.
Now: Goldie Hawn Is Living Out Her Love Story
Goldie Hawn, the sweetheart of the '70s, is now an inspiring icon of today. No time warp could dim Goldie's shine! Her love story with actor Kurt Russell is nearly-forty-years-long-and-still-going-strong, and warms even the coldest hearts in Hollywood:
No, we never got married but one thing that continues to grow is our love. You're a wild one, brilliant, lovable, childlike, perfectly maddening, a father supreme and deeply funny! I can't imagine my life without you at any age, Kurt Russell. You're the catch. And you're all mine.
From a charming comedienne to a seasoned star, her journey has been as bright and effervescent as her personality. We say, bravo Goldie! You're the golden girl who never stops sparkling!
Now: Debbie Harry Still Records and Rocks Out In Her 70s
Fast forward to today, and guess what? Punk princess Debbie Harry hasn't lost a beat. Harry may have traded her punk threads for more elegant attire, but she still rocks with the same energy and attitude that catapulted her to stardom in the '70s. She's still performing, still defying norms and yes, still the head-turning, show-stopping Debbie Harry we all fell for. Whether it's the glitz and glam of the '70s or the digital dynamism of today, one thing is clear - Debbie Harry is timeless. She rode the wave from punk rock to pop culture icon with unmatched style and sass. From then until now, she's been turning heads and breaking hearts with the same unfaltering beat.
Then: Pam Grier Was Cinema's First Female Action Star
In the '70s, Pam Grier was the indisputable queen of blaxploitation cinema. She was bold, beautiful, and utterly fearless. With roles like "Coffy" and "Foxy Brown," she wasn't just playing characters - she was making statements. Her badass demeanor, striking beauty, and undeniable talent turned the traditional damsel-in-distress trope on its head, and the world couldn't get enough.
Rocking afros and bell-bottoms like no one else, Grier brought a potent mix of sex appeal and strength to the silver screen. She was the woman who could allure you one moment and knock you out the next. This was a woman who didn't just wear an outfit; she owned it.
Now: Pam Grier's Still On Screen, And Fighting For Animal Rights In Her Spare Time
Now, let's fast forward to today. Pam Grier, fierce queen of '70s cinema? She's still as fiery as ever. With regular appearances on TV shows like The L Word and Bless This Mess, Grier continues to grace our screens and steal our hearts. She even has a thriller, Cinnamon, scheduled for release in 2023! And let's not forget about her off-screen endeavors. She's an accomplished author, having penned her memoir, Foxy: My Life in Three Acts. Plus, she's a voice for survivors of sexual violence and an advocate for animal rights:
Animals saved me, so my paying it forward is about saving animals who saved me.
Then: Candice Bergen Was On All The Magazine Covers
In the '70s, Candice Bergen was not only a model, but Hollywood's golden girl, the epitome of cool class and sharp wit. She broke onto the scene with her Academy Award-nominated performance in Starting Over, showcasing her skills as a serious actress and a comedic powerhouse. With her porcelain skin, high cheekbones, and those sparkling blue eyes, she was turning heads left, right, and center. And it wasn't just her beauty—her incredible talent and fearless personality had everyone hooked. Bergen was also making waves on the small screen. Her iconic role in Murphy Brown didn't kick off until the late '80s, but let's face it, we can't talk about Candice without mentioning her Emmy-hogging, groundbreaking character.
Now: Candice Bergen Writes and Creates Art - and She Still Acts!
Guess what? In the 2020's, Candice Bergen hasn't lost a step. She's as radiant and sassy as ever, and still gracing Hollywood with her immense talent. She reprised her role in a revival of Murphy Brown, reminding us all that strong, complex female characters are timeless. Off-screen, Bergen has become a successful author and photojournalist, proving that her talents extend far beyond acting. And did you know? She's a serious craftswoman, too, running an impressive business selling hand-painted bags, known as "Bergenbags"!
Then: Cher Was The Goddess Of Pop
Back in her heyday, Cher was more than just a singer or actress; she was a veritable phenomenon. With her exotically hypnotic contralto voice and her half of the Sonny & Cher magic, she ruled the music charts with iconic hits like "Gypsies, Tramps & Thieves" and "Dark Lady." Her style? Wild, flamboyant, and trailblazing. Let's just say the woman could rock a sequined jumpsuit like nobody's business.
But her talent didn't stop at mesmerizing music and electrifying fashion. Cher was also making waves on the small screen with The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour, and later her own show, Cher. She brought the same vibrant energy to the screen that she did to the stage, and the world was completely smitten.
Now: Cher's Still Rocking Those Showstopping Outfits
Fast-forward to today, and what do we find? The Goddess of Pop is still reigning supreme! Cher continues to wow us with her timeless music, dramatic acting roles, and yes, her fearless sense of style. Whether she's winning accolades for her role in a movie like Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again or advocating for causes close to her heart, she's an enduring icon who doesn't know the meaning of the word 'quit.'
Her most recent tours? Sold out. Her Twitter presence? A sassy masterclass. She even had her own foray into Broadway with The Cher Show. And let's not forget her ever scandalous love life - most recently, the 76 year-old was dating 37 year-old Alexander Edwards. Only Cher!
Then: Bo Derek Was Rocking Cornrows
Bo Derek burst onto the Hollywood scene in the late '70s with her unforgettable role in 10. Remember that iconic beach running scene? That perfect core? With her cornrow hairstyle and a body that could make a stopwatch run slow, Derek had everyone's jaws hitting the floor. She wasn't just an actress, she was an international sensation. Her style? Pure '70s sizzle. Derek rocked the natural look like nobody else, and that golden tan and million-dollar smile had people everywhere swooning. The term 'beach babe' might as well have been invented for her!
Now: Bo Derek Is Still Turning Heads
So what about today? She may have swapped her cornrows for softer curls and the skimpy swimsuits for elegant gowns, but Bo Derek is just as stunning as ever. Derek continues to grace our screens with her presence, and off-screen she's an ardent animal rights activist. As a a spokesperson for the Animal Welfare Institute's campaign to end horse slaughter through legislation, she's spent decades fighting for the welfare of our four-legged friends, reminding us that true beauty is more than skin deep.
Then: Faye Dunaway
Dunaway was the definition of Hollywood glamour in the swinging '70s. With her roles in seminal films like Chinatown and Network, for which she won an Academy Award, she was not just a household name, but a symbol of strong, complicated femininity in film. Her sharp features and smoky voice entranced audiences, while her talent left them in awe. This southern-belle-turned-Hollywood-heavyweight stole every scene, no matter the film or red carpet.
Now: Faye Dunaway Still Acts Occasionally, And Goes To Church Regularly
Fast forward to today, and Dunaway is still an active force in the industry. She may have swapped those '70s bell-bottoms for sleek pant suits, but she's just as glamorous and imposing as ever. With a few recent roles on screen and on Broadway, it's clear she's selective about the characters she plays. Off the screen, she's converted to Catholicism and is very serious about her faith.
I try to go to mass every day. I get inspired; I feel better about everything; and, I pray a lot.
Let's not forget that memorable moment when she, along with Warren Beatty, inadvertently starred in one of the biggest mix-ups in Oscar history. But hey, she handled it with the grace and dignity we've come to associate with her. Cheers to you, Faye!
Then: Stevie Nicks Was THE Witchy Woman
In the '70s, as part of Fleetwood Mac and as a solo artist, Nicks was the enchantress of rock 'n' roll. With her hauntingly beautiful voice and her poetic lyrics, she took us on mystical journeys with songs like "Rhiannon" and "Landslide." She wasn't just a singer; she was a storyteller weaving magical tales with her music.
And that iconic style! Nicks was the queen of boho-chic long before it was a hashtag. From her flowing lace and chiffon dresses to her platform boots, velvet jackets, and that top hat, she rocked a look that was part gypsy, part rockstar, and entirely Stevie.
Now: Stevie Nicks Is Still The Reigning Queen Of Rock And Roll
Fast forward to today, and our bewitching rock goddess hasn't missed a beat. Still writing, still performing, and still rocking those signature shawls, Stevie Nicks is a testament to enduring talent and timeless style. She's an inductee in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame - twice! Once with Fleetwood Mac and once as a solo artist - talk about major cred!
Off the stage, she's a beacon of strength and resilience, dealing openly with personal struggles and standing as a fiercely independent woman in the music industry. She continues to inspire new generations with her music, her unique style, and her unapologetic attitude.
Then: Jaclyn Smith Was Everyone's Favorite Angel
As Kelly Garrett on Charlie's Angels, Smith was everyone's favorite undercover detective in the '70s. With her sparkling eyes and knockout fashion sense, she was more than just an Angel, she was a superstar. Audiences couldn't resist her mix of sweet and sassy, all wrapped up in bell-bottom jumpsuits and high-waist pants.
Remember that feathered hair that became the epitome of '70s chic? Farrah Fawcett can't take all the credit. That was all Smith! She didn't just wear the fashion of the era, she defined it, turning heads both on-screen and off with her signature style.
Now: Jaclyn Smith Is A Fashion And Beauty Entrepreneur
Our Angel hasn't hung up her halo just yet! Jaclyn Smith may have left behind the disco days, but she's still as radiant as ever. She's continued acting, appearing in numerous television movies and series, and she's still got that signature Smith sparkle.
And let's not forget about her foray into the world of fashion and beauty. Smith has successfully launched her own fashion, skincare, and perfume lines, proving she's not just a style icon but a savvy businesswoman too.
Then: Sally Field Was America's Sweetheart
After charming audiences as the plucky Gidget and the airborne Flying Nun, Sally Field leapt into the seventies with roles that showed her range and her grit. Remember her feisty, union-organizing portrayal in Norma Rae? That tour-de-force performance bagged her an Oscar, cementing her status as a Hollywood heavyweight.
And let's talk about that '70s style. Field was the girl-next-door made good, combining a sweet charm with a trendy style that perfectly captured the spirit of the era. Whether in jeans and a tee or a stylish wrap dress, she was every bit the '70s fashion icon.
Now: Sally Field Still Shines On Screen!
So, where's our favorite sweetheart now? Sally Field continues to be an enduring presence in Hollywood, winning hearts and wowing critics with her performances on both the big and small screen.
She's aged like a fine wine and continues to bring a poignant, heart-rending quality to her roles, reminding us all that true talent knows no age. And off-screen? Field's a devoted activist and philanthropist, supporting causes close to her heart. She is a strong supporter of gay rights, and, after being diagnosed with osteoporosis, "Rally with Sally for Bone Health" campaign. She was even arrested as recently as 2019 for attending a climate change protest! Way to walk the walk, Sally!
Then: Dolly Parton Was A Country Sensation
In the '70s, Parton was more than just a country music singer; she was a sensation. With her big voice and even bigger hair, she took the music world by storm. Her hits like "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You" still echo in our hearts, showcasing her brilliant songwriting skills and heartstring-tugging vocals. And let's not forget her unforgettable duets with Porter Wagoner.
And her style? Oh, honey! With her sky-high wigs, curve-hugging outfits, and a twinkle in her eye, Parton was the glammed-up queen of country chic. She was unapologetically herself — a rhinestone in a world of plain denim.
Now: Dolly Parton Is A Sparkling Champion For Literacy!
Nowadays, still writing and performing, Dolly Parton is as dazzling as ever. She's even embraced new platforms, collaborating with younger artists and even producing hit Netflix series. And we still can't get enough of her bedazzled style!
Off-stage, she's a philanthropist, a businesswoman (Dollywood, anyone?), and an advocate for literacy. With her Imagination Library, she's put books into the hands of millions of children, proving that she's got as much heart as talent.
Then: Catherine Bach Was Our Favorite Duke of Hazzard
In the '70s, Catharine Bach drove into our lives as the fast-driving, quick-thinking Daisy Duke in The Dukes of Hazzard. With her long, tanned legs showcased in her namesake shorts, Bach was more than just a TV star; she was a cultural phenomenon. Daisy was as comfortable behind the wheel of her Jeep, christened "Dixie," as she was outsmarting the bumbling Hazzard County deputies.
And let's not skip over that distinctive Daisy style. Bach rocked her character's signature cut-off denim shorts like no one else, setting a trend that's still kicking today. She was the epitome of Southern charm and beauty, turning heads both on and off the screen.
Now: Catherine Bach Has Her Own Jewelry Line
.So, what's our favorite Duke been up to? Well, Catherine Bach remained active in the film and TV industry over the years, but more recently has taken a step back from Hollywood. She launched her own jewelry line, proving she's got both beauty and brains! Whether she's strutting her stuff on the red carpet or spending time with her family, Bach will always be our beloved Daisy Duke.
Then: Jane Seymour Was A Sultry Bond Girl
In the '70s, Jane Seymour was more than just an actress; she was a sensation. This English rose first caught our attention as a Bond girl in Live and Let Die, proving that she had the chops to hold her own against 007 himself. With her striking beauty and undeniable talent, she quickly became a household name on both sides of the Atlantic.
Her style, too, was second to none. With her long, flowing hair and almost ethereal style, she became a fashion icon of the era, embodying an elegant, timeless aesthetic that many still strive to emulate.
Now: Jane Seymour Is Still As Fashionable As Ever
So, where's our favorite Bond girl now? Jane Seymour is as radiant as ever, still gracing our screens in film and television. Whether she's playing a passionate queen in The Tudors or a quirky mom in The Kominsky Method, she continues to captivate audiences with her versatility.
Off-screen, Seymour has embraced a variety of roles - artist, author, and designer, to name a few. She's designed her own line of jewelry, penned a number of self-help and inspirational books, and showcased her paintings in galleries across the world. So, raise your martini glasses to Jane Seymour, the Bond girl who's been turning heads since the '70s and continues to do so today!
Then: Diane Keaton Was One Of The Best Actresses Of The '70's
In the '70s, Keaton was more than just an actress; she was an enigma. With her role as the charmingly independent Annie Hall in the film of the same name, she sketched a fresh blueprint for female characters in cinema. Her eccentric, nervous, yet totally lovable portrayal earned her an Academy Award and the hearts of audiences worldwide.
Now: Diane Keaton Is Still Wow-ing Us On And Off Screen
What's our favorite eclectic actress up to? Well, Diane Keaton is still delighting us on-screen, whether she's making us laugh in Mack and Rita or proving that love has no age limit in the Book Club franchise
Off-screen, she is a renowned photographer, having published several photography books of her own. Keaton is also a passionate advocate for historic preservation, working with the Los Angeles Conservancy to restore and preserve historic buildings like the Ennis Building in the Los Angeles Area. And, obviously, her fashion sense remains as distinctive and inspiring as ever.
Then: Suzanne Somers Had Us Seeing Stars
Suzanne Somers was a TV sensation in the '70s. As Chrissy Snow on Three's Company, she played the ditzy, lovable, and unforgettably endearing roommate that America couldn't resist. From her trademark giggles to her famously fluffed hair, she was the epitome of '70s charm and style.
Let's not forget about her wardrobe - from her flared jeans to her adorable crop tops, she was a style icon who knew how to rock the trends of the era. And who could forget those iconic appearances in Hugh Hefner's magazine? We definitely won't anytime soon!
Now: Suzanne Somers is a Fitness Guru and Businesswoman
What's our favorite ditzy blonde been up to? Plenty! Suzanne Somers is still as vibrant and full of life as ever. She's become a successful businesswoman, an author, and health advocate. She's published a multitude of recipe and diet books, and started an organic skincare line, Suzanne Somers Official. And while she may have swapped her flared jeans for elegant dresses, she's still got that infectious Somers sparkle. Let's not forget her memorable stint on Dancing with the Stars, either!
Then: Cybill Shepherd Was A Vision On The Silver Screen
From her breakout role in The Last Picture Show to her turn in the hit series The Yellow Rose, model-turned-actress Cybill Shepherd was the golden girl of the swinging '70s. With her sun-kissed locks, flawless complexion, and those hypnotic blue eyes, she became a staple of '70s cinema and TV.
Now: Cybill Shepherd Is An Outspoken Ally Of the LGBTQ+ Community
But what's our favorite '70s darling been up to today? Plenty! Cybill Shepherd is still as radiant and vivacious as ever. She's continued to wow us on screen, from her iconic role in the sitcom Cybill to her memorable appearances in shows like Guilty Party and Psych.
Off-camera, she's an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and a passionate singer with ten (that's right! Ten!) albums under her belt. She's even been honored for her activism work with the National Ally for Equality Award by the Human Rights Campaign. And when it comes to style, while Shepherd's might have evolved over the decades, she still knows how to turn heads on the red carpet.
Then: Barbra Streisand Made Us Swoon
Broadway-star-turned-pop-sensation Barbra Streisand was a force to be reckoned with: she had the looks, she had the voice, she had the attitude. From her blockbuster hits like The Way We Were to her Oscar-winning turn in Funny Girl, Streisand had the world wrapped around her finger in the '70s. With her powerhouse vocals, undeniable acting talent, and those iconic nails, she was the definition of a superstar. And let's not forget her style. Whether she was dazzling on stage in sequin gowns or rocking her signature turtleneck and flared jeans combo, Streisand was the epitome of '70s glamour and sophistication.
Now: Barbra is Busier And Better Than Ever!
What's our favorite diva been up to? Well, she's still belting out those high notes and breaking records. From her chart-topping albums to her directing and producing endeavors, Barbra Streisand continues to push boundaries and break barriers in the industry. Over her career, Streisand has been nominated 43 times for Grammy awards, winning a total of 8 times. She released yet another album as recently as 2021, and plans to head out on tour in 2023. Streisand also is publishing her memoir, My Name Is Barbra, in November 2023. The woman can do it all!
Off the stage, she's an advocate for women's heart health, a philanthropist, and a devoted dog mom. Her style has evolved but remains uniquely Barbra – elegant, bold, and unapologetically herself.
Then: Jessica Lange Stole Our Hearts In The '70s
Jessica Lange personified '70s glamour. Her Hollywood debut in the 1976 remake of King Kong showed us that not only could a damsel in distress win over a gargantuan ape, but also the hearts of audiences worldwide. With her blonde bombshell looks and captivating eyes, she was a vision of the '70s cinematic landscape. As talented as she was beautiful, Lange was one of the few actors to achieve the "Triple Crown Of Acting": Two Academy Awards, three Primetime Emmy Awards, and Tony Award. We think she's the real prize!
Now: Jessica Lange Is Still Smoldering On Screen
But what's our favorite '70s starlet up to today? Well, Jessica Lange is still stealing scenes and hearts alike. Whether she's showcasing her dark side in American Horror Story - as a witch, nun, or freak show manager - or displaying her range in Feud: Bette and Joan, Lange continues to impress with her remarkable versatility.
Off-camera, she's a passionate political activist, an accomplished photographer, and a doting grandmother. Her style has evolved but remains as elegant as ever, proving that true beauty is timeless.
Then: Sigourney Weaver Was THE Sci-Fi Babe
Sigourney Weaver blasted onto the scene, quite literally, as the ultimate space survivor of the '70s, Ellen Ripley, in the iconic Alien film. She was tough, smart, and resourceful. Her groundbreaking performance not only shattered the glass ceiling of the sci-fi genre, but also earned her a place among Hollywood's leading ladies. ? Weaver defined what it meant to be a heroine in a space suit. She combined grit and grace, all while battling extraterrestrial beasts. From her jumpsuit to her flame-thrower, she was the epitome of space-chic and we were into it.
Now: Sigourney Weaver Is Still Blowing Us Away
Let's warp speed to today. So, what's our favorite space heroine up to? Still blasting away expectations, that's what. Whether she's reprising her role in the Ghostbusters franchise, playing a villain in The Defenders, or making us cry in Avatar, Sigourney Weaver continues to captivate us with her talent and versatility.
Off-screen, she's an environmental activist, using her voice and position of chairperson of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to champion causes close to her heart. And, while her style has evolved, she's still the epitome of elegance on the red carpet.