Barbara Bach, best known for her iconic role as Bond girl Anya Amasova in The Spy Who Loved Me, had a stellar career that intertwined both glamour and the thrill of Hollywood. However, her path in life took a surprising turn when she met and eventually married one of the most famous musicians of all time, Ringo Starr of The Beatles. Their love story is one that continues to captivate fans worldwide, inspiring those who believe in the power of lasting love and second chances.
The Rise to Fame: Barbara Bach’s Iconic Role in The Spy Who Loved Me
Barbara Bach’s career began in the early 1970s, and she quickly rose to prominence with her performance in the 1977 James Bond film The Spy Who Loved Me. Playing the role of Major Anya Amasova, a KGB agent and love interest of James Bond, Bach captivated audiences with her beauty, poise, and acting ability. This performance solidified her as one of the most memorable Bond girls, and she became an international sensation almost overnight.
Before The Spy Who Loved Me, Bach had appeared in a number of Italian films, and her big break came when she starred in Black Belly of the Tarantula, a 1971 Italian giallo crime film. She shared the screen with other famous Bond girls, including Claudine Auger and Barbara Bouchet, establishing herself as a rising star in the industry.
Bach’s role in the Bond franchise catapulted her to the top of Hollywood’s elite list, and she quickly became one of the most sought-after actresses of the late 70s and early 80s. However, it was not just her career that was about to take a significant turn—it was her personal life that would also change forever.
The Meeting: From Bond Girl to Rock Star’s Wife
It was during the filming of the 1981 slapstick comedy Caveman, in which Bach starred alongside her future husband Ringo Starr, that their love story began. The two first met at the Los Angeles airport, both en route to the set in Mexico. Though they initially didn’t connect romantically, their paths crossed again, and within a week, the bond between them blossomed into a deep and lasting love.
Ringo Starr, the iconic drummer of The Beatles, was already a global superstar when he met Bach. Despite his fame, Ringo was immediately taken by Bach’s beauty, warmth, and intelligence. He recalls their initial meeting fondly, saying, “I love the woman. I loved her from when I first saw her at LAX in 1980.” Their relationship quickly grew, and by the time filming for Caveman wrapped up, they had fallen in love.
Bach has often shared how her relationship with Ringo Starr evolved from friendly companionship to true love. “We weren’t together until the very end of Caveman. We got along fine working, but we each had other people,” she explained in an interview. However, their chemistry was undeniable, and their connection only grew stronger over time.
A Beautiful Union: Marriage and Life Together
Barbara Bach and Ringo Starr married on April 27, 1981, in a ceremony attended by close family and friends, including Paul McCartney and George Harrison. Their union has since become one of Hollywood’s most enduring love stories. The couple has now been married for over 40 years, and their bond remains as strong as ever.
Despite their high-profile careers and public lives, Bach and Starr have managed to maintain a grounded and loving relationship. Starr has frequently expressed his love and admiration for Bach, calling her “the love of my life.” Their connection, built on mutual respect and support, continues to inspire those who believe in the enduring power of love.
In 1981, just months before their wedding, Bach and Starr were involved in a near-fatal car crash. The couple was driving when they swerved to avoid a truck, causing their car to roll over twice. They both emerged from the accident relatively unscathed, which they later saw as a sign that they were meant to be together. Starr reflected on the incident, saying, “We decided we wouldn’t spend any time apart. So far, the longest break was five days, and that was too long.”
Overcoming Challenges Together
Like many couples, Bach and Starr have faced their own challenges, including struggles with addiction. In 1988, they both entered rehab together and have been sober ever since. Their decision to get clean and support each other through recovery has only strengthened their relationship.
Throughout their time together, Bach and Starr have remained committed to one another, often citing their shared values and love for each other as the foundation of their long-lasting marriage. “I think I love Barbara as much [today] as I did [when we met],” Starr said. “I’m beyond blessed that she loves me and we’re still together.”
In addition to their personal accomplishments, the couple has also focused on giving back through their charitable endeavors. They run The Lotus Foundation, an organization that supports various causes, including homelessness, substance abuse, and cancer research. Bach and Starr’s dedication to philanthropy demonstrates their shared commitment to making the world a better place.
A Blended Family and Continued Love
Both Bach and Starr have children from previous marriages, and together, they have built a blended family filled with love and support. Starr has three children with his late wife Maureen Cox, and Bach has two children from her previous marriage to Augusto Gregorini. Their children, now grown, have formed strong bonds, and the couple continues to foster a sense of unity and love within their family.
As they celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary in 2021, Starr posted a photo from their wedding day, accompanied by the caption, “It was 40 years ago today The love of my life said yes yes yes.” This heartfelt tribute encapsulates the couple’s deep love for each other and their enduring commitment to one another.
Final Thoughts: A Love for the Ages
Barbara Bach and Ringo Starr’s love story is a testament to the power of true love, resilience, and commitment. Despite their respective fame and the challenges they’ve faced along the way, they have remained devoted to each other for over four decades. Their journey together, filled with love, laughter, and a shared passion for life, continues to inspire fans around the world.
As they move forward, Bach and Starr’s love continues to thrive, proving that true love can withstand the test of time. Whether through their personal journey or their charitable work, the couple’s bond remains a shining example of love, family, and commitment.
