Joan Collins, a legendary actress known for her glamorous roles, once faced hardships that few could imagine. At 90 years old, she is now happily married to her husband, who is younger than her, proving that resilience and love know no bounds.
A Childhood Marked by War
Born on May 23, 1933, in London, England, Joan Collins grew up in a time of turmoil. As World War II ravaged Europe, Joan and her family found themselves seeking shelter in London’s underground stations, hiding from German bombings. Her mother, Elsa, who worked at a nightclub, and her father, Joseph, a talent agent, tried their best to provide stability amid the chaos.
Collins remembers the challenging years of her childhood, moving frequently as her family sought safety. Her father remained in London to assist those who had not evacuated, while she and her siblings—Jackie and Bill—endured the struggles of wartime Britain. Despite the difficulties, Joan found solace in the underground shelters, recalling that the atmosphere was surprisingly friendly, with people playing music and singing together.
A Passion for Acting Against All Odds
Collins' love for acting was nurtured by her grandmother, who taught her singing, tap dancing, and even how to do splits. However, her father discouraged her from pursuing a career in entertainment, believing she would fade from relevance before turning 23. Joan defied the odds, proving not only her father wrong but also surpassing all expectations placed upon her.
At the age of 18, Collins enrolled in the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), a decision that would set her on a path to international stardom. In 1981, she gained widespread recognition for her role in the hit TV series Dynasty, where she played the iconic character Alexis Carrington, starring alongside Linda Evans. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe Award and cemented her legacy in Hollywood.
Love, Loss, and Finding Happiness
While her career flourished, Joan Collins faced many ups and downs in her personal life. At 23, she was in a relationship with actor Warren Beatty. When she became pregnant at 26, Beatty convinced her to terminate the pregnancy, claiming it would hinder their careers. Though it was a difficult decision, Collins later admitted that he had been right about the professional implications.
Collins went on to marry five times. After multiple relationships that didn’t stand the test of time, she finally found lasting love with her fifth husband, actor and producer Percy Gibson. The two met in 2000 while working on a play in New York City. Despite their 32-year age gap, the couple built a strong and loving relationship, marrying in February 2002. Joan, who had not planned on marrying again, found in Percy the honesty and companionship she had always sought.
A Legacy of Strength and Success
Today, at 90 years old, Joan Collins remains a symbol of resilience, talent, and timeless elegance. She continues to inspire generations with her story of perseverance, proving that humble beginnings do not define one’s destiny. Her life journey—from sleeping in the subway during wartime to becoming a celebrated actress—serves as a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit.
With a career spanning over seven decades and a love story that defied expectations, Joan Collins has shown that success, happiness, and love are not limited by age. Her story continues to captivate fans around the world, leaving an enduring mark on Hollywood and beyond.