Heather Locklear is having a year more suited for the vixens she’s known for playing on TV.
In March, the actress made headlines after a mysterious 911 caller claimed Locklear would try to kill herself. Locklear’s rep denied Locklear or anyone in her house called 911 seeking medical assistance. In June, Locklear checked into a treatment center for depression. This past weekend, she was arrested on DUI charges. As her latest (off-screen) soap opera unfolds, RedEye charts the highs and lows of Locklear’s image on a scale of 1-6, 6 being the highest.
1993-99
After high-profile roles on “T.J. Hooker” and “Dynasty,” the blond bombshell landed a spot on “Melrose Place” as trampy Amanda Woodward. Locklear’s portrayal of the cold-hearted backstabber solidified her status as the drama queen of prime-time soaps.
1999-2002
Locklear was added to the “Spin City” cast to help smooth Michael J. Fox’s exit from the show. As Caitlin Moore, a mayoral aide known for her problem-solving abilities, Locklear proved she could cater to family audiences.
2005
After “Spin City,” Locklear’s TV success slowed. She appeared in fewer than a dozen episodes of “LAX” before it was canceled in 2005. Her characters became more matronly. She starred as Hillary Duff’s mother in “The Perfect Man,” and she’s slated to appear in the “Hannah Montana” movie in 2009.
April 2006
Oh, the drama. After Locklear and former husband Richie Sambora officially split in February 2006, Sambora started dating Locklear’s ex-bestie, Denise Richards. Allegations swirled that Sambora cheated on Locklear with Richards, which Richards denied. Richards and Sambora broke up in 2007, and the friendship between Locklear and Richards remains broken.
June 2008
Locklear spent a month in an Arizona facility to treat depression and anxiety, People magazine reported. “She got help, and she’ll continue doing what she needs to do to feel well,” a pal told the mag.
September 2008
Locklear was pulled over Saturday afternoon in Montecito, Calif., after she was spotted driving erratically, authorities said. Police said they found her car blocking a lane on a state highway. Locklear was booked on suspicion of driving under the influence of prescription medication and released from custody.
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TSWARTZ@TRIBUNE.COM
