Cyrinda Foxe, synonymous with the glam and grit of the 1970s rock ‘n’ roll scene, was a captivating personality who carved a niche for herself as a muse, model, and actress. Her vibrant and tumultuous life story, played out in an era defined by its uninhibited expression and wild parties, is a fascinating tale of love, fame, struggle, and reinvention.
Early Life and Career
Born Kathleen Victoria Hetzekian on February 22, 1951, in Santa Monica, California, Cyrinda Foxe was of Armenian and Irish descent. An unstable family situation and abuse marked her early life, eventually leading her to leave home and seek refuge in the thriving counterculture of the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Cyrinda soon found her footing in the underground art and music scene, where she began modeling for photographers and artists. It wasn’t long before her striking looks and magnetic persona caught the attention of prominent personalities in the rock ‘n’ roll world. She adopted Cyrinda Foxe, which she took from a 1960s cocktail dress label, and became an integral part of the New York City glam rock scene.
Muse and Rock ‘n’ Roll Relationships
Cyrinda’s most significant relationships were with two legendary rock musicians, David Bowie and Steven Tyler. Her romance with Bowie in the early 1970s helped solidify her status as a muse within the industry. Bowie was captivated by her enigmatic allure, and it is believed that she was the inspiration behind the title track of his 1972 album, “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.”
In 1977, Cyrinda began a tumultuous relationship with Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler. They married the following year and had a daughter, Mia Tyler, who would become a successful plus-size model and actress. Despite the passion and intensity of their love affair, the couple’s relationship was marred by drug addiction and domestic strife, ultimately leading to their divorce in 1987.
Film and Acting Career
Parallel to her modeling and high-profile relationships, Cyrinda pursued an acting career. She starred in Andy Warhol’s 1972 film “Bad” and made appearances in other Warhol-produced movies like “L’Amour” and “Women in Revolt.” Cyrinda’s acting career never really took off, but her connection to Warhol and the Factory scene further solidified her status as an icon of the era.
Memoir and Later Life
In 1996, Cyrinda published her memoir, “Dream On: Livin’ on the Edge with Steven Tyler and Aerosmith,” which chronicled her life, relationships, and experiences during her years with the band. The book provided a candid and often harrowing account of the hedonistic lifestyle that defined the rock ‘n’ roll scene of the 1970s and 1980s.
Unfortunately, Cyrinda’s later years were marked by hardship and tragedy. She was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2001, and her health rapidly deteriorated. She was forced to auction off personal items and memorabilia from her time with Aerosmith and David Bowie to cover her mounting medical bills. Cyrinda’s struggle garnered widespread attention and inspired the rock community to rally around her. Despite her financial and health challenges, Cyrinda remained a spirited and defiant personality until her passing on September 7, 2002.
Legacy
Cyrinda Foxe’s story is one of perseverance and reinvention. From her tumultuous childhood to her rise as a muse and model, her life played out like a quintessential rock ‘n’ roll saga. Cyrinda’s influence as a muse extended beyond the inspiration she provided to the artists she was close to, such as David Bowie and Steven Tyler. She also left an indelible mark on the 1970s glam rock scene, embodying its spirit of freedom, creativity, and rebellion.
Her contributions to the world of rock are still celebrated and recognized today. Though her acting career was brief, her connection to the legendary artist and filmmaker Andy Warhol further cemented her status as a cultural icon. Cyrinda’s memoir, “Dream On,” remains a fascinating account of the excesses and struggles that characterized the lives of rock stars and their entourages during that era. Her candid depiction of her life experiences sheds light on the darker side of fame, revealing the personal toll that life in the spotlight can exact.
In the years since her passing, Cyrinda’s daughter, Mia Tyler, has carried on her mother’s legacy through her successful career as a model and actress and as an advocate for body positivity and mental health awareness. Mia’s dedication to these causes has helped raise awareness and break down barriers surrounding these critical issues, further extending the impact of Cyrinda’s life and influence.
