VINTAGE BEAUTY ~ Valerie Bertinelli

I remember watching the sitcom "One Day at a Time" during the late seventies and thinking "I wish I was Barbara Cooper!" She had a carefree sexy persona and a "who me?" appeal. The series ran a good nine year stint from 1975 until 1984. A series considered groundbreaking for it's frank discussion of teen sexuality and the unique problems that arose from single parenthood and the 70's pop culture. The role of "Barbara", who was uncommonly obedient, was like a breath of fresh air to many parents who at the time were struggling with their more rebellious youth.

All be it, a bit awkward at times, she managed to subdue her male fans with her charm and innocent allure. You really believed she had no idea just how gorgeous she was. The girl-next-door who simply, but readily, took your breath away.

Valerie Bertinelli was born on April 23, 1960 in Wilmington, Delaware to a GM executive and was the only daughter in the middle of an older brother and two younger. She admittedly viewed herself as mostly a tomboy growing up and claims humble surprise to her then sex-symbol status.

Before marrying Eddie Van Halen, one of the most successful and talented lead guitarists to ever front a rock band, Valerie Bertinelli gave the less-known but now blockbuster director, Steven Spielberg a go. Also in the dating pool, she had her fun with actors, Scott Baio and Scott Columby, before deciding that a rocker would be a perfect choice to settle down with. Snagging a very cute Rock Star, at that. And although her marriage to Eddie didn't last, she showed the wisdom of being able to stay friends with her ex no matter how tumultious the relationship turned out to be. Her first priority was and always is for the sake of her son.