Joan Collins' Net Worth
Dame Joan Collins DBE is an esteemed English actress and author with a net worth of $20 million. Renowned for her glamorous image and powerful portrayals of strong, dynamic characters, Collins gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, starring in films like "Land of the Pharaohs" and "The Stud."
In the 1980s, Collins reached iconic status by playing Alexis Carrington Colby in the primetime soap opera "Dynasty." Her portrayal of the scheming, stylish character won her a Golden Globe Award and brought her international fame. She appeared in 195 of the show's 220 episodes, contributing significantly to its nine-season success.
Beyond acting, Collins has found success as an author, with her novels and memoirs often becoming bestsellers. In 2015, she was honored as a Dame by Queen Elizabeth II for her charitable services. Even in her later years, Joan continues to captivate audiences, solidifying her status as a timeless figure in entertainment.
Early Life
Joan Henrietta Collins was born on May 23, 1933, in London, England. Her father, a talent agent, represented notable clients such as Shirley Bassey, the Beatles, and Tom Jones. Her mother, an Anglican from England, raised her alongside two younger siblings, including her sister Jackie Collins, a bestselling novelist who sold 500 million books. Joan attended the prestigious all-girls Francis Holland School in London. By age nine, she was cast in Henrik Ibsen's "A Doll's House." At 16, she trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, signing with the British film studio Rank Organization a year later.
Early Career
Collins debuted in the 1951 comedy "Lady Godiva Rides Again." Following minor roles, she achieved a breakthrough with the 1952 drama "I Believe in You," earning the British press's title of "Britain's bad girl." Notable early films include England's first X-rated film "Decameron Nights" (1953) and the historical drama "The Land of the Pharaohs" (1954), which led to a seven-year contract with 21st Century Fox.
Her Hollywood debut came in 1955 with "The Virgin Queens," co-starring Bette Davis. Collins continued to star in prominent roles like "The Girl in the Red Velvet Swing" and "Rally Round the Flag, Boys" opposite Paul Newman. Although initially considered for the lead in "Cleopatra," she left 21st Century Fox, starring in "Esther and the King" before departing the studio.
Post-contract, Collins returned to England, starring in horror and thriller films. She achieved renewed acclaim with the film adaptation of Jackie Collins' "The Stud" (1978), grossing over $20 million internationally.
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"Dynasty" and Other Work
In 1981, Collins starred as Alexis Carrington Colby in "Dynasty," playing a crucial role in the show's success. Her performance earned five Golden Globe nominations, winning in 1983, and an Emmy nomination in 1984. She also received two People's Choice Awards. Recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1983, Collins continued her success with various TV movies and miniseries like "Sins" and "Monte Carlo."
After "Dynasty" ended in 1989, Collins starred in "Private Lives," returning to London's West End. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, she guest-starred on shows and acted in films such as "A Midwinter's Tale" and "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat." In the 2010s, she appeared on "American Horror Story" and "The Royals."
Personal Life
Collins has been married five times, first to actor Maxwell Reed, then to actor Anthony Newley, with whom she had two children. She had a daughter with businessman Ron Kass. After marrying and divorcing Swedish pop star Peter Holm, she wed Percy Gibson in 2002. Collins maintains homes in New York City, Los Angeles, London, and France.
Real Estate
In 2007, Joan and Percy purchased a West Hollywood condo for $2.7 million, selling it in 2017 for $4.4 million. That same year, she bought another LA condo for $2.1 million, listing it for sale in January 2021 at the same price. Their villa in St. Tropez, France, is estimated to be worth over $10 million. In 2020, Collins notably criticized the lack of social distancing in St. Tropez.
