Joan Collins: A Legendary Star With Timeless Appeal

What Is Joan Collins' Net Worth?

Let’s talk about Dame Joan Collins DBE, the glamorous English actress and author whose net worth stands at a solid $20 million. Joan has been captivating audiences for decades with her larger-than-life presence, fierce characters, and undeniable charm. Her career began in the 1950s and 1960s, where she lit up the screen in films like "Land of the Pharaohs" and "The Stud." But it was the 1980s that truly cemented her status as a global icon, thanks to her unforgettable role as Alexis Carrington Colby in the primetime soap opera "Dynasty." That role not only earned her a Golden Globe but also made her a household name worldwide.

Her portrayal of Alexis Carrington Colby in "Dynasty" was nothing short of iconic. Known for her scheming ways, sharp wit, and impeccable style, Alexis became one of television's most beloved characters. Joan appeared in 195 of the show’s 220 episodes, and her performances were instrumental in making "Dynasty" a runaway hit. But Joan's talents extend far beyond acting. She’s also a best-selling author, and her books often top the charts. In 2015, Queen Elizabeth II honored her with a damehood for her charitable contributions. At 91, Joan continues to dazzle audiences and remains a beloved figure in the entertainment world.

Early Life: From London's Streets to the Silver Screen

Joan Collins was born Joan Henrietta Collins on May 23, 1933, in the bustling city of London, England. Her father, a talent agent, represented some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Shirley Bassey, the Beatles, and Tom Jones. Interestingly, her father was Jewish and hailed from South Africa, while her mother was of Anglican heritage from England. Growing up, Joan wasn’t alone—she had two younger siblings, including her famous sister, Jackie Collins, who became a best-selling novelist with over 500 million books sold during her lifetime.

Read also:

Barbara Sinatras Net Worth 2024 A Closer Look At Her Incredible Journey

Joan’s love for the arts began early. At just nine years old, she was cast in Henrik Ibsen's play "A Doll's House," showcasing her natural talent for drama. By the age of 16, she was already honing her craft at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts. It was during this time that she signed with the renowned British film studio Rank Organization, setting the stage for her remarkable journey into the world of entertainment.

Early Career: Breaking Barriers and Making Waves

Joan’s film career kicked off in 1951 with the comedy "Lady Godiva Rides Again," marking the beginning of a long and illustrious career. She quickly followed it up with roles in "The Woman's Angle" and the drama "Judgement Deferred" in 1952. Her breakout role came later that same year in "I Believe in You," a performance so compelling that the British press labeled her "Britain's bad girl." In 1953, she took on a supporting role in England’s first X-rated film, "Decameron Nights," alongside a leading role in the sports drama "The Square Ring." Between film shoots, Joan continued to refine her craft by starring in plays around London, including "The Seventh Veil," "Claudia and David," and "The Skin of Our Teeth."

In 1954, Joan's talent caught the eye of Hollywood producers when she played a princess in "The Land of the Pharaohs." Her performance was so striking that it earned her a seven-year contract with 20th Century Fox. Her Hollywood debut came in 1955 with the historical drama "The Virgin Queens," co-starring the legendary Bette Davis. That same year, she starred in "The Girl in the Red Velvet Swing," further solidifying her place in the industry. In 1956, she took the lead in the Golden Globe-nominated comedy musical "The Opposite Sex," opposite Leslie Nielsen. Joan's career continued to soar as she starred alongside Paul Newman in the 1958 romance "Rally Round the Flag, Boys."

Despite being the top choice for the role of Cleopatra in the 1960 film, the studio ultimately went with Elizabeth Taylor. Disappointed but undeterred, Joan negotiated her release from her contract with 20th Century Fox. Before parting ways, she agreed to star in the epic drama "Esther and the King." Once free from contractual obligations, Joan enjoyed a brief hiatus to focus on family life after marrying in 1963. However, she remained active in the industry, making guest appearances on popular TV shows like "Star Trek" and "Mission: Impossible." Her career resurgence came in the late 1970s with the film adaptation of her sister Jackie Collins' book "The Stud," which became a massive international hit. Joan returned to the stage in 1980, starring in the West End production "The Last of Mrs. Cheyney," further proving her versatility as an actress.

"Dynasty" and Beyond: The Rise to Global Stardom

In 1981, Joan Collins made a bold move by joining the second season of the primetime soap opera "Dynasty" as Alexis Carrington Colby, the ex-wife of a powerful oil tycoon. Her addition to the cast was nothing short of transformative, boosting the show's ratings and turning it into a global phenomenon. For her work on "Dynasty," Joan received five Golden Globe nominations, winning one in 1982. She was also nominated for an Emmy in 1984 and took home a People's Choice Award in 1985 for Favorite Actress. All these accolades came after she had already been acting for over two decades, proving that talent knows no age limit.

Joan’s influence extended beyond "Dynasty." She earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1983, recognizing her incredible contributions to the entertainment industry. During her time on the show, she also starred in the film "The Nutcracker" and several made-for-television movies. In 1986, she produced and starred in the highly successful CBS miniseries "Sins" and followed it up with "Monte Carlo" the next year. Even after "Dynasty" concluded in 1989, Joan remained a force to be reckoned with. She returned to the stage in the Broadway play "Private Lives," performing across the U.S. and at London’s West End. Throughout the 1990s and into the 2000s, Joan continued to act in films and television shows, including notable roles in "American Horror Story" and "The Royals" in the 2010s.

Read also:

Greg Laurens Multifaceted Journey Net Worth Career And Creative Ventures

Personal Life: Love and Legacy

Joan Collins has lived a full and fascinating personal life, having been married five times. Her first marriage was to Irish actor Maxwell Reed, followed by a union with English actor Anthony Newley in 1963, with whom she had two children. Her third marriage was to businessman Ron Kass, with whom she had a daughter. After their separation, Joan married Swedish pop star Peter Holm, and later, in 2002, she tied the knot with Percy Gibson, her current husband. Joan and Percy divide their time between homes in New York City, Los Angeles, London, and France, enjoying a truly global lifestyle.

Real Estate: Where Joan Calls Home

Joan Collins has always had a keen eye for real estate, investing in some truly stunning properties over the years. In 2007, she and Percy purchased a luxurious condo in West Hollywood, California, for $2.7 million. They listed this property for sale in 2017 at $4.5 million and eventually sold it for $4.4 million. Also in 2017, Joan bought a condo in another part of LA for $2.1 million, which she later listed for sale in January 2021 at the same price. But perhaps one of her most breathtaking properties is her villa in St. Tropez, France, a stunning estate rumored to be worth over $10 million. In recent years, Joan has sparked some online debate with her views on social distancing and mask-wearing, but there’s no denying her passion for living life to the fullest.