In the latest issue of Closer Weekly, legendary actress Brenda Vaccaro opens up about her storied life, both in front of the camera and behind closed doors. She shares heartfelt insights into her relationship with Michael Douglas, revealing how she chose a path that felt right at the time but ultimately led to regret. Professionally, Brenda's career has been nothing short of extraordinary. From captivating performances on stage alongside Lauren Bacall to memorable roles in films with Barbra Streisand and Al Pacino, she’s earned prestigious accolades, including an Emmy and a Golden Globe. Yet, her personal journey wasn’t always smooth sailing. Thankfully, she found enduring love with her husband, Guy Hector, a former model, manager, and real estate executive, with whom she’s shared 31 years of bliss.
At 75 years young, Brenda radiates with enthusiasm and optimism. "I’ve lived an incredible life!" she exclaims to Closer. "I’m full of spirit, hope, and excitement for what’s ahead. There’s still so much I want to accomplish!" Her candid reflections offer a glimpse into a life rich with experiences, challenges, and triumphs.
A Journey Through Time: Brenda and Michael's Unfinished Story

Brenda and Michael in 1975, a time when their love story was just beginning.
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Brenda shares with Closer that she lived with Michael Douglas for seven years during the '70s, a period when they were on the brink of marriage. "We met when I starred in Midnight Cowboy, and Michael, smitten by my performance, asked his father, Kirk Douglas, to introduce us and offer me a role in Summertree," she recounts. "He was an amazing guy, and I cared deeply for him, but marriage wasn’t something I envisioned for myself at the time."
From Love to Regret: The 1970s Hippie Wedding That Never Was
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"Back then, marriage wasn’t the norm," Brenda explains. "We decided to have a 'hippie wedding' at my agent’s house, exchanging vows with the intention of staying together forever. But when it came time to make it official, I froze. I said 'yes,' but deep down, I knew I wasn’t ready. I let him down, and I’ve regretted it ever since."
Life took an unexpected turn when Brenda fell passionately in love with actor Don Stroud. "It was a powerful connection, both emotionally and physically," she admits. "My friend Robert Shaw, who was working on Jaws, warned me that I was making a rash decision. He predicted that the fleeting excitement I felt with Don would lead to lasting regret if I left Michael. He was absolutely right."
"That era was wild. Drugs were everywhere, and we were surrounded by icons like Anjelica Huston and Jack Nicholson. It was chaotic, and I made choices I now deeply regret," Brenda reflects. "But life moves forward, and I’ve learned from those mistakes."
View this post on InstagramA throwback in the sun. #TBT
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True Love Found: Brenda and Guy Hector's Journey Together
Brenda tells Closer that her current marriage to Guy Hector is the happiest chapter of her life. "We met at a charity event at my house, and it was love at first sight—for my dog, anyway!" she laughs. "Guy bonded with my dog during a film shoot in Denver, and what started as a friendship blossomed into something much deeper. We took a road trip to Northern California, and by the end of it, we both knew this was meant to be."
To hear more about Brenda’s incredible journey with Michael and her enduring love with Guy, grab the latest issue of Closer Weekly, available now at newsstands. Don’t miss out—subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive updates!


