What Happened to Dame Joan Henrietta Collins?

Dame Joan Henrietta Collins, born May 23, 1933, in London, England, embarked on her illustrious career at a young age, training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. She signed with the Rank Organisation at 17 and quickly gained recognition in British cinema, often cast in roles as 'Britain's Bad Girl'. Her move to Hollywood in 1955 saw her star in films like 'Land of the Pharaohs' and 'The Girl in the Red Velvet Swing', establishing her as a glamorous presence.

The pivotal moment in Collins' career arrived in 1981 when she took on the role of the manipulative and glamorous Alexis Carrington Colby in the American prime-time soap opera 'Dynasty'. Her portrayal revitalized the show, turning it into a global phenomenon and earning her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series – Drama in 1983. This role cemented her status as an international superstar and a pop culture icon, known for her sharp wit and formidable presence.

Following 'Dynasty', Collins diversified her career, returning to the stage, publishing several bestselling novels and memoirs, and continuing to appear in various film and television projects. Her literary works include autobiographies like 'Past Imperfect' and glitzy romance novels, following in the footsteps of her late sister, Jackie Collins. She was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1997 for services to drama and elevated to Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2015 for her extensive charitable services.

Collins' personal life has also been a subject of public interest, marked by five marriages. Her most enduring marriage is to Percy Gibson, whom she wed in 2002. Despite a 32-year age difference, their relationship has thrived, and they frequently appear together at public events. She is a mother of three children and a grandmother.

As of April 2026, Dame Joan Collins remains remarkably active and engaged in the entertainment industry and social scene. In January 2026, she starred in the mystery film 'A Murder Between Friends', which was released in the U.S.. She is also slated to portray Wallis Simpson in an upcoming film titled 'The Bitter End', with filming having commenced in May 2025 in London and Paris. Collins continues to be a fixture at high-profile events, attending The Cut Golden Globes Brunch in January 2026 and the West End opening gala of 'Kinky Boots' in March 2026, showcasing her enduring style and vitality. She celebrated her 24th wedding anniversary with Percy Gibson in February 2026, and publicly shares her views on health and beauty, including her stance against weight loss injections.