Teenage Infatuations: My Greatest Hollywood Crushes

From Bridget Bardot to Elisabeth Sladen, our teenage years are often filled with romantic fantasies about Hollywood celebrities. Let us explore some of the infatuations that shaped our teenage years and the celebrities that left indelible marks on us.

High School: Bridget Bardot (1958-61)

During high school from 1958 to 1961, there was no question who my biggest Hollywood crush was: Bridget Bardot. Her stunning beauty and air of mystery captivated teenage boys across the globe, causing us to bite our knuckles with anticipation. We gazed wistfully at her and lamented, 'Life is so unfair! How could a merciful God do this to us?'

Image Source: Bridget Bardot.

Avril Lavigne: The Perfect Teen Icon

While Bridget Bardot made a significant impact on teenage boys, for me, it was Avril Lavigne who became the perfect teenage icon. From 13 to 14 years old, her look, personality, and music style were a perfect match for a girl-dreamer like me. Lavigne exuded confidence and never took herself too seriously, while having the time of her life on tour.

Although I outgrew my infatuation, she had a profound impact on me. Whenever I hear one of her songs, I'm still taken back to that nostalgic period. Despite never buying another album after 'Let Go', it still holds a special place on my wall. Thank you, Avril, for being a shining star in my teenage years.

Junior High: A Love for Classic Actresses

During junior high, my crushes were not teenage heartthrobs but classic actresses. Kristy McNichol, the witty and charming actress from 'Family', was a hit. Little did I know she was a lesbian. Kate Jackson, as the intelligent and demure member of 'Charlie’s Angels', was another inspiration. And Joanna Lumley, despite her silky, elegant exterior, had a surprising punch ready behind her

SFF Fan Panel Experience: Sarah Jane Smith

At a science fiction and fantasy (SFF) convention several years ago, I had the privilege of being on a panel where I shared my teenage infatuations. In a packed hall filled with fans and writers, I mentioned my greatest Hollywood crush: Sarah Jane Smith from 'Doctor Who', portrayed by the late magnificent Elisabeth Sladen. Sharing such memories is a bittersweet yet cherished experience.

Star Wars: A Fond Memory

When I was 10 years old, I didn't realize this as the beginning of a crush, but there were two scenes from the original Star Wars trilogy that left a lasting impression on me. Not referring to Leia's golden bikini, these scenes were from 'The Empire Strikes Back.'

The first scene involved Luke Skywalker in a tank top, and while it won't be a spoiler, the scene that made my heart flutter was Luke in the bacta tank, revealing his bare knees. This was the moment I realized I had an inexplicable attraction to male joints, an infatuation that no one else, it seems, shares.

Conclusion: Our teenage years are often marked by these crushes and infatuations with Hollywood celebrities. From Bridget Bardot to Avril Lavigne, these memories are a part of who we are and the ones we might cherish forever. Share your own teenage infatuations in the comments below!