Born in Rio de Janeiro, she moved to New York as a child. Her modeling career began at age 15, leading to a contract with the Ford Modeling Agency. She made her film debut in 1968 and gained fame with "Summer of '42" (1971). Known for her beauty and talent, she appeared in numerous films and TV shows throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Beyond acting, she is an accomplished author and speaker, advocating for various charitable causes. Her life encompasses diverse roles as an artist, mother, and activist.