What Happened to Betsey Johnson?

Betsey Johnson’s life continued to be a roller coaster, including a breast cancer diagnosis in 2000. She is now in remission.

She launched her namesake brand in 1978, and her empire grew to 66 stores nationwide.

Betsey sold her brand in 2007, and after the new owners filed for bankruptcy, fellow designer, Steve Madden saved it.

In 2002, Johnson was inducted into the Fashion Walk of Fame. Her bronze plaque held one of her original sketches. In 2003, she expanded her line in 2004 to include handbags, accessories, hats and scarves.

On September 12, 2012, Betsey celebrated 40 years of her brand with a retrospective fashion show with Cyndi Lauper performing.