Her reputation began to suffer as colleagues labeled her as difficult and demanding. While filming CBS’s “The Incredible Journey of Doctor Meg Laurel,” she reportedly became petulant on set, asking crew members to clear stones and sticks from her path after tripping several times.
The famous ’70s actress circa 1977. | Source: Getty Images
Defenders claimed that much of her behavior stemmed from the relentless pressure placed on her by Hollywood executives. She later reflected, “I was raised by the Golden Rule, but no one in this business has heard of it. At one point I found myself talking to God, yelling, ‘You forgot the movie industry!'”
The actress circa 1977. | Source: Getty Images
Adding to her struggles were a series of health issues. The Hollywood star experienced severe side effects from medication that nearly caused her to lose her hair, and a car accident left her with scars on her lip and scalp.
Later, she suffered from chronic urticaria, a condition that caused painful welts and swelling across her body. “It would burn. It would itch like crazy. It’s something that could just make you go insane,” she recalled.
The ’70s beauty icon on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” in 1977. | Source: Getty Images
Treatments like steroids and antihistamines offered temporary relief but came with side effects. After eight months of suffering, she was desperate for a cure.
Her personal life was equally tumultuous. Her first marriage to music publisher Allan Rider lasted only two years. Her second, to actor Michael Brandon, ended after three years. A third marriage, to stuntman Henry Kingi, began with a Lake Tahoe ceremony where the couple recited a Paiute Indian blessing.
“The Bionic Woman” star photographed with her ex-husband, Michael Brandon, at their home in 1977. | Source: Getty Images
Despite their romantic beginnings, the marriage ended in divorce. Friends described their relationship as volatile, with one noting, “It was like living with a roller coaster.”
Emotionally and physically depleted and recognizing the need to rebuild, she turned inward and began focusing on personal growth. “I went back to reading the Bible,” she revealed. She credited her renewed faith with helping her find balance and overcome her fears.
