From enduring abuse in one marriage to infidelity in another and an “acrimonious” divorce, Joan Collins faced immense personal challenges. Yet, at nearly 70, she found lasting love with a younger man she calls “the most honorable” she’s ever known.
An iconic actress and Hollywood mainstay, Joan Collins said “I do” four times before swearing off marriage for good after a particularly turbulent fourth union. But meeting her fifth husband changed everything.
Over 30 years her junior, he quickly won her heart, and although their age gap was the talk of the town, their marriage has now flourished for nearly two decades. Take a look at photos of the happy couple and what the actress said is the secret to their romance.
Inside Joan Collins’ Four Marriages
Collins became a household name with her captivating performances on screen, particularly through her legendary role as Alexis Carrington on “Dynasty.” The Hollywood icon also enchanted fans with her charm and breathtaking beauty.
Circa 1950, Joan Collins began her journey to stardom, captivating audiences as one of Hollywood’s most glamorous icons with roles in films like “The Girl in the Red Velvet Swing.” | Source: Getty Images
In 1951, Joan Collins posed for the Daily Herald’s Women’s Section, modeling a look that showcased her early elegance and poise, hinting at the star she was destined to become. | Source: Getty Images
Circa 1953, Joan Collins filmed “Turn the Key Softly.” With her striking features and classic style, she embodied a signature look that defined elegance and made her one of the most unforgettable faces of her era. | Source: Getty Images
However, while her career flourished, her personal life was marked by complex and challenging marriages. The actress’s first marriage was to Maxwell Reed, a British actor known for his work in the 1940s and 1950s. Despite his on-screen charm, Collins revealed their marriage was far from ideal.
Reflecting on this dark period in her life, Collins shared, “We made it clear from the beginning that there were certain things we wouldn’t tolerate in our marriage.”
The actress continued, “Sadly, abuse is something I experienced in my first marriage, and no woman (or man) should ever allow it, either mental or physical, although so many still do. That is why I support the #MeToo movement and I hope that it will spread outside of show business and fashion to help everyone.”
The “Dynasty” star then entered her second marriage with British singer-songwriter Anthony Newley, who gained fame for his work in musical theater and pop music. Though their marriage started on a high note, Collins eventually discovered Newley’s unfaithfulness.
At just 18, Collins took her first steps into marriage in 1952. Her union with Maxwell Reed would later reveal darker undertones, shaping her perspective on relationships. | Source: Getty Images
A radiant Joan Collins with her first husband shortly after exchanging vows. Though they began with high hopes, the actress has openly spoken about the challenges she faced in this troubled marriage. | Source: Getty Images
A day after their wedding in 1963, Joan Collins and Anthony Newley enjoyed a night out at a club. Though they shared the high life, their marriage was ultimately overshadowed by Newley’s womanizing, leading Collins to end their relationship. | Source: Getty Images
In 1964, Joan Collins and Anthony Newley were photographed with their daughter. Despite their glamorous appearances, Collins later revealed their marriage struggled due to Newley’s infidelity. | Source: Getty Images
Reflecting on her disappointment, she stated, “Infidelity is another no-no. My marriage to Anthony Newley ended because of his womanizing and to me that breaks a sacred bond. Faithfulness and trust in each other are essential […].” The couple shared two children, Tara and Sacha.
Following her divorce from Newley, the actress married Ronald S. Kass, a music executive who had served as the head of the Beatles’ record label, Apple.
By the time they wed, Kass had recently lost his job, and his financial troubles compounded when he became reliant on Collins’ earnings. According to reports, Kass also struggled with heroin addiction, creating further challenges for Collins. Together, they had a daughter, Katy Kass, but their marriage did not stand the test of time.
The Hollywood beauty’s fourth marriage was to Swedish singer Peter Holm, a union that became one of her most publicized relationships. Holm was known for his work in European music but became better known for his high-profile relationship with Collins.
Reflecting on the experience, the actress remarked that their relationship was “dragging along.” She added, “After the acrimonious divorce from my fourth husband, Peter Holm — a process that lasted longer than the 13-month marriage itself — I had declared that I never wanted to marry again […].”
Finding Lasting Love
In a twist, Collins found lasting love in her fifth marriage to Percy Gibson, a theater company manager 32 years her junior. At the time of their wedding, Collins was 68, and they had met earlier that year at a New York City book signing event for her self-help book, “My Friends’ Secrets.”
“Percy is the most honorable man I’ve ever met,” the actress shared. She explained that their relationship developed gradually, allowing them to build a deep understanding. “We got to know each other very, very well before we committed. We really, really got to know each other deeply in the right way,” Collins said.
Their substantial age gap initially drew public curiosity, yet Collins remained unbothered by the commentary. Marrying a younger man came with the advantage of being with someone who shared her vitality and zest for life.
The actress acknowledged that Gibson’s youthful energy inspired her to maintain her own physical and mental health, motivating her to stay active and engaged. She humorously added that her energy sometimes surpassed his, leaving Gibson jokingly unable to keep up with her lively pace.
Over time, the age difference became less of a topic as people witnessed their happiness and dedication to each other. She laughed off inquiries about their age gap early on, once quipping, “If he dies, he dies!”
As the secret to their marriage, the actress revealed that their nearly two-decade-long relationship thrives on shared values and a few simple practices. Collins embraced the advice of her friend Michael Caine, attributing some of their marital success to having separate bathrooms.
