Dame Joan Collins began her acting career in British films before transitioning to Hollywood during the Golden Age of cinema. She made her breakthrough with a role in I Believe in You in 1952, followed by roles in Cosh Boy and Our Girl Friday the next year. Her success led to Hollywood roles in films such as The Girl in the Red Velvet Swing (1955), Sea Wife (1956), and Island in the Sun (1957). Despite her growing fame, she returned to the U.K. after being replaced by Elizabeth Taylor for the role of Cleopatra in 1963.
In a 2019 CBS interview, Collins revealed that she walked away from a film role after a studio executive allegedly offered her the part in exchange for sleeping with him. She firmly stated that she would never compromise her values or give her body for a role, regardless of the circumstances. Despite this setback, Collins continued to secure roles in Hollywood and the U.K., appearing in various television series and films. Her most famous role came in the TV series Dynasty, for which she received Golden Globe nominations and won in 1983, as well as an Emmy Award nomination in 1984.
Collins had been married four times before finding lasting love with producer Percy Gibson, whom she met during the 2000 play Love Letters. Initially hesitant to marry again, Collins eventually tied the knot with Gibson in 2002, and their marriage has endured longer than any of her previous relationships. In her memoir, The World According to Joan, Collins reflects on her past relationships, noting that she waited for the right partner despite encountering numerous difficulties.
Throughout her career, Collins remained resilient and dedicated to her craft, balancing her personal life with her professional achievements. Her career encompassed a wide range of roles both in film and television, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Despite challenges and setbacks, including being replaced in a major film role, Collins persisted and continued to build a successful career in the entertainment industry. Her love story with Percy Gibson serves as a testament to the belief that true love can be found even after experiencing multiple disappointments.
Joan Collins’ career has been marked by numerous successes and accolades, including her iconic role on Dynasty and her contributions to British and Hollywood cinema. Her ability to adapt to different roles and genres has solidified her status as a versatile and talented actress. Beyond her professional achievements, Collins’ personal life, particularly her enduring marriage to Percy Gibson, highlights her resilience and capacity for love. Through her experiences and accomplishments, Collins has become a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, inspiring others with her talent, strength, and unwavering commitment to her craft.
