Barbara Bach, the talented actor and model, is best known for her iconic portrayal of Bond girl Triple X in “The Spy Who Loved Me.” But her real-life love story with musician Ringo Starr is just as captivating. As they enter their golden years, their enduring love continues to inspire us all.
From Bond Girl to Leading Lady
In 1977, Barbara Bach reached the height of her career with her role as the captivating Major Anya Amasova in “The Spy Who Loved Me.” She stole the show as James Bond’s love interest and potential adversary. But behind the scenes, Bach had her own views on Bond’s womanizing ways, calling him a “chauvinist pig.” Roger Moore, who played Bond, admitted to being a “male chauvinist pig” himself and spent his life working to empower women.
Before her Bond girl fame, Bach appeared in Italian films and even shared the screen with other Bond girls in the 1971 film “Black Belly of the Tarantula.” But it was her role in “The Spy Who Loved Me” that catapulted her to stardom and solidified her acting career.
Love Begins to Blossom
After her success as a Bond girl, Barbara Bach went on to have leading roles in other films. In 1980, she starred in “Mad Magazine Presents Up the Academy,” and the following year, she appeared in the quirky comedy “Caveman” alongside Ringo Starr. While the film had a different romantic outcome for their characters, it was off-screen where their own love story began to unfold.
Contrary to their onscreen plot, Bach and Starr grew closer during the last week of shooting “Caveman.” They were friendly colleagues before, but destiny had other plans for them. In an interview with Playboy magazine, Bach revealed, “Within a week – the last week of shooting – it just happened. We changed from friendly love to being in love.”
A Love That Defies All Odds
Barbara Bach and Ringo Starr’s love has endured the test of time and overcome obstacles. Just before their wedding, they survived a near-fatal car crash. Against all odds, they emerged unharmed. This incident solidified their decision to never spend time apart. As Starr declared, “We decided we wouldn’t spend any time apart. So far, the longest break was five days, and that was too long. I want to live every minute with Barbara.”
Their devotion to each other was further exemplified when they entered rehab together in 1988. Since then, they have remained committed to a life of sobriety.
Celebrating 40 Years of Love
In 2021, the couple celebrated their 40th anniversary, a remarkable milestone in their enduring love story. Starr shared a throwback photo from their wedding day on social media, where Paul McCartney and George Harrison also made appearances. His heartfelt caption read, “It was 40 years ago today The love of my life said yes yes yes.”
Making a Difference Together
Barbara Bach and Ringo Starr’s love stretches beyond their own relationship. They co-founded The Lotus Foundation, a charity that supports various projects related to animal welfare, substance abuse, homelessness, and cancer. Starr, also an artist, generously donates all sales proceeds to the organization, showcasing their shared dedication to making the world a better place.
Love Knows No Bounds
The love story of Barbara Bach and Ringo Starr is a testament to the power of love. It began amidst the glitz and glamour of Hollywood and continues to flourish, even after many years. As we look forward to their future endeavors in charity work and their personal lives, let us be reminded that love knows no bounds and transcends time.
