The Unforgettable Legacy of Joan Collins in Entertainment

Dame Joan Collins is an iconic figure in entertainment, celebrated for her extensive work as an actress, author, and columnist. With a career spanning more than seven decades, she has earned numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe Award and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Joan Collins is recognized not only for her powerful performances but also for her significant charitable contributions, which earned her the title of Dame in 2015. In this article, we will take a journey through her remarkable life and career, highlighting key milestones that shaped her unforgettable legacy.

Early Life

Joan Henrietta Collins was born on May 23, 1933, in Paddington, London. Growing up in a culturally rich household, her mother, Elsa Collins, was a dance teacher, and her father, Joseph Collins, was a talent agent who managed famous clients such as Shirley Bassey and The Beatles. From an early age, Joan displayed a natural affinity for acting. She made her stage debut at the age of nine in Henrik Ibsen’s „A Doll’s House“ and continued to cultivate her passion for performance throughout her youth.

At sixteen, Joan joined the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), one of the most prestigious acting schools in the world, to further refine her acting skills. After her training, she signed with The Rank Organisation, marking the official start of her illustrious career in show business.

1950s Acting Career

Joan Collins made her feature film debut in 1951, appearing as a beauty contestant in the film „Lady Godiva Rides Again.“ Her breakthrough came in 1952 with the film „I Believe in You,“ where she played the role of a juvenile delinquent, earning her the nickname “Britain’s Bad Girl.” This role helped her gain attention in the UK film industry.

In 1954, Joan caught the attention of Hollywood when director Howard Hawks cast her in the international production „Land of the Pharaohs.“ The film’s grand production helped her gain recognition in the United States. Soon after, she signed a seven-year contract with 20th Century Fox, which opened the door to numerous major film roles. Notable films during this period included „The Virgin Queen“ (1955), where she starred alongside Bette Davis, and „The Girl in the Red Velvet Swing“ (1955), in which she portrayed the infamous Evelyn Nesbit.

1960s Acting Career

Despite her early success, Joan became increasingly disillusioned with 20th Century Fox after being replaced by Elizabeth Taylor in the title role of „Cleopatra.“ After her contract ended, she returned to Britain and shifted her focus to both film and television. During this time, she appeared in „The Road to Hong Kong“ (1962), a comedy starring Bing Crosby and Bob Hope. Joan also made guest appearances on popular American TV shows, including the legendary sci-fi series „Star Trek,“ where she played Edith Keeler in the iconic episode „The City on the Edge of Forever.“

1970s Acting Career

The 1970s saw Joan Collins diversify her career, starring in a variety of British thrillers and horror films. Some of her key roles included „Revenge“ (1971), „Tales from the Crypt“ (1972), and „Dark Places“ (1973). She also starred in the cult classic „Empire of the Ants“ (1977), which earned her a nomination for a Saturn Award.

During this decade, Joan’s career reached new heights with her portrayal of Fontaine Khaled in the film adaptations of her sister Jackie Collins‘ best-selling novels, „The Stud“ (1978) and „The Bitch“ (1979). These films were not only commercially successful but also marked Joan as a bold and glamorous star, appealing to a wider audience.

1980s Acting Career and Dynasty Fame

The 1980s marked one of the most significant periods in Joan Collins‘ career. In 1981, she joined the cast of the hit television series „Dynasty,“ where she played Alexis Colby, the vengeful ex-wife of oil tycoon Blake Carrington. Joan’s portrayal of Alexis was met with critical acclaim and catapulted her to international superstardom. „Dynasty“ became one of the most popular TV shows of the decade, with Joan’s character being credited as a major factor in its success.

During the 1980s, Joan also appeared in films such as „Nutcracker“ (1982) and produced and starred in the TV miniseries „Sins“ (1986). She continued to maintain her glamorous image, even posing for a 12-page layout in „Playboy“ at the age of 50, solidifying her status as an enduring cultural icon.

1990s Career and Broadway Debut

Following the end of „Dynasty“ in 1989, Joan Collins turned her attention to the stage, making her Broadway debut in a revival of Noël Coward’s „Private Lives“ in 1990. The production was well-received, earning Joan positive reviews for her performance. Throughout the 1990s, she continued to make her mark in film and television, appearing in movies such as „Decadence“ (1994) and „Annie: A Royal Adventure!“ (1995).

2000s Acting and Return to Television

The 2000s saw Joan Collins making a successful return to both film and television. She appeared in „The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas“ (2000) as Wilma Flintstone’s mother, Pearl Slaghoople. Joan also starred alongside Elizabeth Taylor, Debbie Reynolds, and Shirley MacLaine in the TV movie „These Old Broads“ (2001). In addition, she returned to television with roles in soap operas such as „Guiding Light“ and reality series like „Joan Collins Does Glamour.“

2010s Acting Comeback

The 2010s marked a significant comeback for Joan Collins in the television world. She appeared in the series „Happily Divorced“ (2011–2013), „Benidorm“ (2014–2017), and „The Royals“ (2014–2018). Additionally, she starred in the independent film „The Time of Their Lives“ (2017), her first leading role in a feature film since the 1980s. Joan also made a memorable appearance in the popular horror anthology series „American Horror Story: Apocalypse“ (2018), playing the glamorous yet cunning Evie Gallant and witch Bubbles McGee.

2020s Recent Work

Joan Collins continues to captivate audiences in the 2020s. She co-starred in the 2020 film „The Loss Adjuster“ and appeared in the historical drama miniseries „Confess“ (2021). Joan’s presence on screen remains impactful, and she has also participated in numerous interviews and documentaries, reflecting on her decades-long career and the legacy she has built in the entertainment industry.

Other Ventures

Joan Collins is also an accomplished author. She has written several best-selling novels, including „Prime Time“ (1988) and „Star Quality“ (2002). Her memoir, „Second Act“ (1997), and self-help book, „Passion for Life“ (2004), have been widely read and appreciated. Joan is also known for her charitable work, supporting causes such as the NSPCC, breast cancer research, and HIV/AIDS awareness.

Personal Life

Joan Collins has had a colorful personal life, marked by five marriages, including to actors Maxwell Reed, Anthony Newley, and Ron Kass. Her third marriage to Newley produced two children, including singer and actress Tara Newley. Collins has been married to Percy Gibson, a former actor and theater director, since 2002.

Political Views and Honours

Joan Collins is a Conservative supporter, known for her outspoken views on various social issues. She was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2015 for her contributions to drama and charity work. Joan remains an influential public figure, regularly appearing in the media to share her thoughts on politics, fashion, and entertainment.

Filmography and Theatre Performances

Joan Collins‘ film and television career spans more than 70 years, with notable roles in both classic films and modern productions. Her theatre performances have also earned critical acclaim, especially in her portrayal of key roles in plays like „Private Lives.“ Throughout her career, Joan has maintained a steady presence in both film and television, continuously impressing audiences with her acting skills and captivating personality.

Conclusion

Joan Collins‘ impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable. From her early days in British cinema to her stardom in Hollywood, her portrayal of Alexis Colby in „Dynasty“ to her successful return to television in the 2000s, Joan has been an ever-present figure in pop culture. Her contributions to drama, literature, and charity have cemented her place as a true icon. As she continues to inspire new generations of fans and maintain a prominent presence in the media, Joan Collins‘ legacy will undoubtedly endure for many years to come.