This ’80s Star Endured the Tragic Loss of Her Husband & Became a Single Mother – Her Pics at 70 After Gaining Weight
This star rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s, becoming a household name thanks to her role in the beloved action series “The Dukes of Hazzard.” Despite portraying one of television’s most iconic characters, she nearly missed out on her role in the popular series.
The actress on the set of the television show, “The Dukes of Hazzard,” 1980 | Source: Getty Images
In a candid interview, the public figure shared, “It was a complete fluke that I was Daisy Duke! I’m half Mexican and half German, and my agency said, ‘You’re way too exotic and just not television material’ — and they fired me!”
John Schneider, the actress and Tom Wopat pictured in a promotional portrait for “The Dukes of Hazzard,” on January 1, 1980 | Source: Getty Images
Tom Wopat, the actress, and John Schneider pictured on the set of “The Dukes of Hazzard,” 1980 | Source: Getty Images
Bob suggested they meet her, as the character was partly inspired by her. Initially, she was reluctant, telling a friend that they had been searching for over a year for someone who fit the mold of a blonde like Dolly Parton.
John Schneider, the actress, and Tom Wopat on the set of “The Dukes of Hazzard,” 1982 | Source: Getty Images
The actress attends the Warner Brothers Press Party for “The Dukes of Hazzard” on February 2, 1983 | Source: Getty Images
As the star captivated audiences on-screen, her spouse worked behind the scenes as a production manager and producer. Shaw gained recognition for his work on films such as “Murder, She Wrote” (1984) and “The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax” (1999).
The actress and David Shaw during Look Magazine party on February 14, 1979, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
The actress and Peter Lopez pictured on January 1, 1985 | Source: Getty Images
The pair married in 1990 and welcomed two daughters together. They had their first child Sophia in January 1996 and their second daughter, Laura, was born in October 1998.
The actress during Jane Wooster Scott Exhibit on during Jane Wooster Scott Exhibit on December 7, 1982 in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
“‘I’m able to stay home with our kids. He makes a good living, he was a lawyer. This is the greatest thing that has ever happened to me.’ And then all of a sudden it was just gone,” she said.
Peter Lopez and the actress attend the 15th Annual American Music Awards on January 25, 1988 | Source: Getty Images
The actress and Peter Lopez at The Weinstein Company’s 2007 Golden Globes After Party on January 15, 2007 | Source: Getty Images
Initially, she was confused, thinking she had everything in order, but then she realized and turned to embrace him, giving him a big kiss and saying, “I love you.” This was a daily ritual for them whenever he was home—a way to affirm their love.
Peter Lopez and the actress during A Family Celebration Second Annual Gala on April 1, 2001, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
It was one of the household staff members who eventually discovered him. They immediately called 911, and the police quickly arrived, surrounding their home.
The actress and Peter Lopez at The Alzheimer’s Association’s 11th Annual “A Night at Sardi’s” Awards Dinner on February 26, 2003 | Source: Getty Images
“We were so devastated. When you are part of a happy family unit, you lose part of that… I mean, we were completely insulated and happy with our family,” admitted the veteran star. She and her oldest daughter immersed themselves in numerous books after her husband’s death, searching for answers as to why it happened.
The actress and Sophia Lopez at the premiere of “Trumbo” 2015 | Source: Getty Images
With no issues like drug use, heavy drinking, or financial troubles, she struggled to make sense of it. In an interview, the celebrity revealed she would take a course on suicide to gain a deeper understanding.
In her journey toward healing, she turned to her faith and community for strength. As a devout Catholic, the Hollywood star prayed frequently, attended church often, and relied heavily on the guidance of her trusted priest.
The actress during The 42nd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards on April 26, 2015, in Burbank, California. | Source: Getty Images
She explained that these practices, along with therapy, were what kept her going. She also participated in grief group therapy, surrounded by others who had experienced significant losses, which provided her with additional support.
Catherine Bach attends 39th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards on June 23, 2012, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
Even years after his passing, Bach continues to honor her late husband’s memory, often reflecting on the wonderful partner and father he was. In June 2023, she shared a touching tribute on Instagram alongside a family photo, writing, “Happy Heavenly Father’s Day honey. What a great dad you were to our girls not to mention a fantastic husband!”
Catherine Bach pictured on March 25, 2022, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
She stayed in shape through daily activities like dancing for hours, hiking, and swimming, considering herself an athlete rather than someone who followed diets. Her daughters have also embraced a similar approach to fitness, practicing yoga together as a way to bond and prioritize family time.
Catherine Bach attends a wedding celebration on August 1, 2024, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images
At the event, Bach embraced her graceful aging, proudly showcasing a look different from the All-American style of her Daisy Duke days. She wore a black shirt paired with a long, striped cardigan in shades of blue, green, and gray, smiling softly as she posed with one hand on her hip.
Catherine Bach attends a wedding celebration on August 1, 2024, in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images
Catherine Bach in Pacific Palisades, California, on June 5, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Catherine Bach’s journey reflects resilience, strength, and a deep commitment to family. Despite enduring personal tragedy and significant changes in her life, she has remained grounded, relying on her faith, family, and active lifestyle.
Catherine Bach and her daughters, Laura Esmeralda and Sophia Isabella Lopez, attend the 12th Annual Ed Asner and Friends Celebrity Poker Night in Studio City, California, on June 15, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Catherine Ba attends John Schneider and Dee Dee Sorvino’s wedding celebration on August 1, 2024, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images
Today, she continues to live life on her own terms, cherishing her role as a mother and a television icon while staying true to the values that have guided her throughout her career and personal life.