Koo Stark
Quick Facts
Biography
Kathleen Dee-Anne Stark (born April 26, 1956, New York City), better known as Koo Stark, is an American film actress and photographer, mostly remembered for her friendship with Prince Andrew.
Early life
Her parents were film producer Wilbur Stark (1912–1995) and New York television writer and original morning TV host Kathi Norris (1919–2005). She attended a private school in Manhattan, The Hewitt School Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts, and Professional Children's School. She moved to London at the age of 14, to continue her education in Europe attending Glendower School in Kensington, London, then joining the National Theater and embarking on an acting career spanning film, television and theater.
Career
Her first film role was in the seldom seen comedy farce All I Want Is You... and You... and You... (1974), followed by the equally obscure The Adolescents
(1975), opposite Anthony Andrews. She had an uncredited role as a bridesmaid in The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975). However her best known performance is the lead role in the erotic film Emily (1976). The soundtrack of that film included a title song written for the film by Rod McKuen. She had a lead role in Cruel Passion (1977), a film based on the Marquis de Sade's novel Justine.Around the same time, she played the part of Camie in Star Wars (also 1977); she appeared in two scenes, both of which were cut from the film before its release. The role of Rost in the Doctor Who serial "Attack of the Cybermen" was meant for her but she allegedly had a disagreement with the production team over her fee and was replaced by Sarah Berger.
She appeared in the comedy film Eat the Rich (1987), and then featured in an episode of the sci-fi TV show Red Dwarf (1989). In an alternate universe, Dave Lister is hugely successful, including being married to a titled wife, Lady Sabrina Mulholland-Jjones, played by Stark.
Stark has also worked as a photographer.
Personal life
Stark enjoyed a close relationship with Prince Andrew before his marriage. Following his return from the Falklands War, they split up, but she has said that she considers him "a good man".
She was married to Tim Jefferies between 1986 and 1990. She has one daughter, Tatiana (born March 12, 1997) by Warren Walker. Stark lives in London and has been a practising Buddhist since 1994. It was reported in the mainstream UK press in late September 2008 that she had been evicted from her home, was on the verge of bankruptcy, and was living in a hotel in west London by the good graces of the hotel management until her financial situation could be resolved.
On February 11, 2011 it was further reported that she had been made bankrupt over her stay at the five-star Jumeirah Carlton Tower hotel in London's upmarket Knightsbridge in 2008.
Stark is a member of the Chelsea Arts Club.
Health
In 2002 she was diagnosed with breast cancer, resulting in a mastectomy and chemotherapy. In 2003, she had a second mastectomy. She has founded a cancer awareness agency.