About
Raquel Welch was an American actress who rose to international fame in the 1960s. She gained initial attention for her role in *Fantastic Voyage* (1966), which led to a contract with 20th Century Fox. Her role in *One Million Years B.C.* (1966), despite having minimal dialogue, catapulted her to international stardom due to the iconic image of her in a doe-skin bikini, which became a bestselling poster.
Career Timeline
Fantastic Voyage Breakthrough
Role in *Fantastic Voyage* led to a contract with 20th Century Fox, launching her Hollywood career. The science fiction film showcased her screen presence and opened doors to major productions.
One Million Years BC Icon
Her appearance in a doe-skin bikini in *One Million Years B.C.* became one of cinema's most iconic images, with the poster becoming a bestseller worldwide. Despite minimal dialogue, this role catapulted her to international sex symbol status.
Myra Breckinridge Controversy
Starred in the controversial *Myra Breckinridge*, demonstrating willingness to take risks. While the film was critically panned, it maintained her high profile and showed range beyond the sex symbol image.
The Three Musketeers Success
Won a Golden Globe for her performance in *The Three Musketeers*, proving her acting abilities beyond her looks. This critical recognition elevated her status and led to more substantial roles.
Broadway and Career Transition
Successfully transitioned to stage work and television, maintaining relevance as film roles became less frequent. Her versatility allowed her to sustain a career beyond her sex symbol years.
Fitness Empire
Launched successful fitness video series and became a wellness entrepreneur, leveraging her image into a business empire. This diversification maintained her public profile and income as acting opportunities declined.
Occasional Acting Roles
Continued making select film and TV appearances while largely retired from Hollywood's spotlight. She remained a recognizable figure from the 1960s-70s era but had faded from mainstream cultural consciousness.
Death at 82
Passed away in February 2023, prompting widespread tributes celebrating her as a Hollywood icon and trailblazer. Her death brought renewed attention to her career and cultural impact during the 1960s and 1970s.
Hollywood Golden Age Icon
Remembered as one of Hollywood's most famous sex symbols and a versatile actress who successfully transitioned across multiple entertainment mediums. Her iconic bikini image remains instantly recognizable, cementing her status as a cultural icon of the 1960s era.
Related Celebrities
Last updated: February 23, 2026