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In this column, Clint Thorpe takes a look back at some of the leading ladies of yesteryear, celebrating iconic actresses from this era to remember the most beautiful women of the 70s and 80s, as well as the lasting impact their work and legendary status, have had on us all.
Catherine Bach Captured Audiences by Storm, Revolutionized a Character, and Ushered in a Fashion Trend like a True Icon
Catherine Bach is a name that sends the collective hearts of a nation aflutter every time they hear it. Most famous for her role as the iconic Daisy Duke on the hit series The Dukes of Hazzard, she took the world by storm setting herself up as an ‘All-American Girl’. Also known for her work in African Skies, The Young and the Restless, and Thunderbolt and Lightningfoot among other projects, it’s her portrayal of the feisty, glamourous, and fierce Daisy Duke that made her both, a sex symbol and most importantly, a household name.
Catherine Bach didn’t just have all the makings of a star, she had the radiance of one, too. Considering Bach’s mother had German ancestry and her father had Mexican ancestry, her unique beauty is not surprising. It’s still stunning to this day knowing Bach might not have won this role, as she was at one point considered “too exotic” for it. In hindsight, it’s a no-brainer to have cast her, as she makes the role her own, and presents a blend of class and fierce toughness rolled into one.
While fellow icons Lynda Carter and Farrah Fawcett embodied a more traditionally beautiful appearance with classic beauty queen features, Catherine Bach took a different approach. In her role as Daisy Duke, Bach brought charisma, allure, and a sense of toughness. Her recognizable mile-long legs highlighted her sleek and sexy 5’8″ physique, creating an incredible presence on screen, and making her portrayal a memorable and daring experience, particularly for the time.
Catherine Bach as Daisy Duke was a Role of a Lifetime
The role Catherine Bach is known for most, though, is on the hit TV show The Dukes of Hazzard. On the show, she played the feisty, independent, scantily clad, and super awesome Daisy Duke, Bo and Luke Duke’s cousin. Daisy displayed skills in horse riding, archery, and sharpshooting, making her an iconic character in her own right. Daisy is not just a damsel in distress, but a strong and independent woman who can stand up for herself and others.
Bach rocked a stunning figure with curves in all the right places, a radiant smile that lights up the screen, and a captivating personality that draws you in. She also had legs for days. Catherine Bach rockin’ the shorts that’d set a fashion trend on TV made her an icon and a sex symbol to boot. A true knockout gal, she was feisty, gorgeous, and incredibly stunning.
Of her character’s ability on the show, Bach told Entertainment Weekly in 1997 that she still adored Daisy Duke all those years later. Upon being asked why Daisy Duke was still considered an idol at the time, Bach said
“Whatever she did, she could shoot better, drive better, do everything better than a guy. Whenever the guys were in trouble, she stepped in. She wasn’t acting tough, she just was.”
Catherine Bach Ushered in a New Fashion Trend, the ‘Daisy Dukes’
One of the most memorable aspects of Daisy’s character is her outfit, which consists of a tight-fitting t-shirt, a pair of ultra-short denim shorts, and high heels. Bach herself designed the costume, which was originally supposed to be a white turtleneck and a poodle skirt. She wanted to wear something more comfortable and realistic for a Southern girl. The result was a sexy and iconic look that became known as the Daisy Dukes and inspired a fashion trend that is still popular today. The Daisy Dukes also symbolized Daisy’s confidence and freedom, as she was not afraid to show off her body and her personality.
Catherine Bach: Daisy Duke, Business Woman, Hollywood Legend
There’s no doubt that all the hard work that went into her role as Daisy Duke, as well as the numerous other projects she’s been a part of, has paid off, cementing Catherine Bach as a legend in Hollywood. An incredible actor, she was the right mix of bold and beautiful, taking initiative and starting a fashion trend off her successful show, designing Daisy Duke’s costume herself and committing to the role of a character portrayed as strong, independent, and versatile.
All of this has culminated in her being known as the ultimate Southern Belle, an ‘All-American Girl’ if you will. Today, she thrives as both an actress as well as a businesswoman, launching her own line of jewelry. She has a store named ‘Daisy Country’, selling her jewelry, clothing, and memorabilia.
The Dukes of Hazzard
Cousins Bo and Luke Duke and their car "General Lee", assisted by Cousin Daisy and Uncle Jesse, have a running battle with the authorities of Hazzard County (Boss Hogg and Sheriff Coltrane), plus a string of ne'er-do-wells often backed by the scheming Hogg.
Release Date: January 25, 1979
Director: Rod Amateau Gy Waldron
Cast: Tom Wopat , John Schneider , Catherine Bach
