Joan Collins, a legendary English actress, grew up during the tumultuous times of World War II. As a child, she and her family sought refuge in London’s Underground stations, moving from one place to another to avoid the relentless bombings. Despite the upheaval, she would go on to become one of the most iconic stars in Hollywood, later marrying a younger man.
Born on May 23, 1933, in London, England, Joan was the eldest child of Elsa, a former nightclub hostess, and Joseph Collins, a South African talent agent. Alongside her siblings, Jackie and Bill, Joan experienced the hardships of wartime London, which deeply affected her childhood and education. In a 2020 interview, Joan reflected on those years, recalling how she was constantly evacuated and could barely remember the events that led to the war because she was so young.
The Collins family, like many Londoners, spent nights in the Tube stations to protect themselves from the bombing raids. Joan remembered those times fondly, sharing that the station at Marble Arch was where they often took shelter, and described the community spirit that prevailed, with people singing and playing accordions to keep spirits high.
Despite the disruption to her schooling, Joan’s family, especially her mother, provided a sense of stability. She also credited her grandmother with nurturing her love of performing, teaching her to sing, tap dance, and even do the splits. This early encouragement led Joan to pursue acting, despite her father’s skepticism that she would last in the industry.
Joan’s father believed that by the age of 23, her acting career would be over. But she defied his expectations and became a household name, most notably starring in the hit drama series *Dynasty* in the 1980s. Over the years, she earned her place as one of Hollywood’s most enduring stars.
While her career flourished, Joan’s love life was more turbulent. She was engaged to actor Warren Beatty in her mid-20s and became pregnant with his child at the age of 26. However, Beatty convinced her to have an abortion, fearing it would harm their careers. Joan later reflected that his advice, though painful at the time, might have been right.
Though her relationship with Beatty didn’t last, Joan went on to marry five times. Her current husband, Percy Gibson, has been by her side since 2002. Despite their 32-year age difference, their relationship has stood the test of time. Joan, now 90, describes Percy, 58, as the most honorable man she’s ever known. The pair met in 2000 while Joan was starring in a play, and Percy, a producer, was working on the production. They quickly developed a connection, and despite Joan being in her 60s and Percy in his 30s, their love blossomed.
Joan Collins continues to be a symbol of grace and resilience, not only for her remarkable career but also for her enduring love story with Percy. Together, they defy the odds, proving that age is just a number when it comes to love.
