In 1979, Friday nights were synonymous with CBS for me, especially when “The Dukes of Hazzard” aired.

As a young boy, I couldn’t get enough of Daisy Duke. Like many guys growing up in the late ’70s

I had a crush on her. Catherine Bach, the naturally beautiful brunette, brought Daisy Duke to life.

Now, at 68 years old, Catherine Bach still brings a smile to my face when I see her latest photos…

How many TV characters leave a lasting impact on fashion long after their show ends? Catherine Bach, known for her portrayal of Daisy Duke, has etched herself into pop culture history.

Famous for her role in the late ’70s and ’80s, Catherine, a native of Cleveland, Ohio, became an icon with her daring outfits, pioneering the trend of short shorts on television.

But those who only see Catherine as a pretty face miss the mark entirely.

Catherine had the integrity, creativity, and courage to shape Daisy Duke into the iconic character that launched her successful career.

For instance, producers initially envisioned Daisy Duke in a tight white turtleneck, go-go boots, and a poodle skirt. However, Catherine insisted on crafting her own look. She personally designed many of the costumes, and the rest is history.

Even today, cut-off denim shorts are still affectionately called “Daisy Dukes.” Some people wear them without knowing anything about the show, a testament to Catherine’s enduring influence.

A Dolly Parton Lookalike

Catherine Bach was born in Warren, Ohio, in 1954. Raised between her father’s ranch in South Dakota and her mother’s home in California, Catherine developed a passion for acting during summers in The Golden State.

Upon graduating high school, Catherine wasted no time pursuing her Hollywood dreams. Armed with a list of agents, she tirelessly knocked on doors until finding representation.

Her break came when her then-husband, David Shaw, informed her about an audition for “The Dukes of Hazzard.” Shaw, stepson of Angela Lansbury, had hired a writer working on the show to paint their house.

“My husband was a contractor… and he liked to hire a lot of out-of-work writers, struggling actors, and producers. So he hired this fellow to paint the house, and he was writing this show about an old moonshiner called ‘The Dukes of Hazzard,’” Catherine recounted in 1981.

Despite the producers’ preference for a Dolly Parton lookalike, Catherine wowed them at the audition and landed the role of Daisy Duke on the spot.

“The Dukes of Hazzard” quickly became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its car chases, humor, and, of course, Catherine’s portrayal of Daisy Duke. Despite critics’ disdain, the show ranked among the top-rated series of its time.

Catherine’s character resonated with many, and Daisy was the reason countless viewers tuned in.

“The character is a conglomeration of many people I know. She is half the wildest girl I ever knew in high school. She is part of a couple of girls I was real close to in Georgia. She’s a lot of Dolly Parton, and she’s a lot of me when I was a waitress. She is independent. She is physical. And she can do anything the guys can do,” Catherine explained in 1979.

In an era before cosmetic enhancements became commonplace, Catherine epitomized natural beauty. Her portrayal of Daisy Duke, a slightly naive Southern belle with integrity, resonated with audiences.

Despite the show’s end in 1985, Catherine’s career faced challenges. However, her talent shone through in subsequent roles, such as Margo Dutton in “African Skies” and Anita Lawson in “The Young and the Restless.”

Tragedy struck in 2010 with the sudden passing of Catherine’s husband, entertainment lawyer Peter Lopez. His death, ruled a suicide, left Catherine grappling with profound loss and unanswered questions.

With her career on hold, Catherine prioritized her daughters, Laura Esmerelda and Sophia Isabella, in the aftermath of her husband’s death. Amid overwhelming grief, she found solace in her faith and the support of loved ones.

Today, nearly 40 years after “The Dukes of Hazzard,” Catherine Bach remains a striking figure, her infectious smile unchanged.

While her appearance may have evolved, her enduring charm continues to captivate audiences, a testament to her timeless appeal.