Joan Collins faced significant personal challenges, including abuse in one marriage, infidelity in another, and a contentious divorce. However, at nearly 70 years old, she discovered lasting love with a younger man whom she describes as “the most honorable” person she has ever known.
Joan Collins, an iconic actress and Hollywood mainstay, has been married four times but decided to stop after a tumultuous fourth marriage. However, meeting her fifth husband changed her perspective. Despite their age difference of over 30 years, he quickly captured her heart, and their marriage has thrived for nearly two decades. Explore photos of the joyful couple and discover the actress’s secret to their enduring romance.
Joan Collins became a household name thanks to her captivating performances, especially her legendary role as Alexis Carrington on “Dynasty.” The Hollywood icon not only showcased her acting talent but also charmed fans with her stunning beauty and charisma throughout her career.
While Joan Collins’s career thrived, her personal life was marked by difficult and complicated marriages. Her first marriage was to Maxwell Reed, a British actor famous in the 1940s and 1950s. Despite his on-screen charm, Collins admitted that their marriage was far from perfect.
Reflecting on the dark period of her first marriage, Joan Collins stated, “We made it clear from the beginning that there were certain things we wouldn’t tolerate.” She revealed that she experienced abuse during this marriage, emphasizing that no one should accept either mental or physical abuse. Collins expressed her support for the #MeToo movement, hoping it would extend beyond the entertainment industry to help everyone.
After this challenging experience, Collins married British singer-songwriter Anthony Newley, known for his work in musical theater and pop music. Although their marriage began positively, she later discovered Newley’s infidelity.
Reflecting on her disappointment, Joan Collins remarked, “Infidelity is another no-no. My marriage to Anthony Newley ended because of his womanizing, which breaks a sacred bond. Faithfulness and trust in each other are essential.” The couple had two children together, Tara and Sacha.
After her divorce from Newley, Collins married Ronald S. Kass, a music executive who had previously been the head of the Beatles’ record label, Apple. By the time they wed, Kass had recently lost his job and became financially dependent on Collins. Reports indicated that he also struggled with heroin addiction, which added further strain to their relationship. They had a daughter, Katy Kass, but their marriage ultimately did not last.
Collins’s fourth marriage was to Swedish singer Peter Holm, a union that attracted significant public attention. While Holm was known for his work in European music, he became more famous for his relationship with Collins. Reflecting on their experience, she noted that their relationship felt like it was “dragging along.” After a contentious divorce that took longer than their 13-month marriage, she declared that she never wanted to marry again.
In a surprising turn, Joan 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 book signing event in New York City for her self-help book, My Friends’ Secrets.
Collins described Percy as “the most honorable man I’ve ever met,” explaining that their relationship developed gradually, allowing them to build a deep understanding of one another. She emphasized, “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.”
Although their significant age difference initially sparked public curiosity, Collins remained unfazed by the attention. Marrying a younger man allowed her to enjoy a relationship with someone who shared her vitality and zest for life.
Joan Collins noted that Percy Gibson’s youthful energy inspired her to prioritize her physical and mental health, encouraging her to stay active and engaged. She humorously remarked that her energy sometimes exceeded his, leaving Gibson jokingly unable to keep up with her lively pace.
As time passed, the age difference became less of a focal point as people began to recognize their happiness and commitment to each other. Collins playfully dismissed questions about their age gap, once quipping, “If he dies, he dies!”
Regarding the secret to their successful marriage, Collins revealed that their nearly two-decade-long relationship is built on shared values and a few simple practices. She credited some of their marital success to heeding the advice of her friend Michael Caine, who suggested that having separate bathrooms can be beneficial.
Joan Collins humorously recounted advice from her friend Michael Caine, saying, “The secret to a happy marriage is separate bathrooms. We try to keep to that rule, and it really does make a difference.”
Despite having occasional disagreements, the couple is quick to apologize and laugh things off, making it a priority to celebrate each other regularly. Collins emphasized that their mutual respect and open communication foster a balanced and joyful partnership.
She shared, “We compliment each other all the time, but I’m also quick to point out if he’s getting a bit of a tummy, and he will say if I’ve gone a bit OTT with the glitz.” Collins noted that Percy appreciates her most when they are at home together—her without makeup and him unshaven and in his tracksuit bottoms.
On February 18, Collins took to Instagram to commemorate their 22 years together, sharing a snapshot of her and Gibson, highlighting her appreciation for having him by her side.
In August, Joan Collins and Percy Gibson showcased their love in a social media post, with Collins dazzling in a silver dress and Gibson looking sharp in a white suit. Followers were quick to praise the couple, with one commenter saying, “You make such a stunning couple, and you look so happy.” Another user remarked, “Beautiful couple,” while a third added, “Absolutely stunning, a beautiful classy couple. God bless you both 💗🍾🥂💕🌹.”
After four unsuccessful marriages, Joan Collins discovered lasting love and companionship with her much younger partner, Percy Gibson. Their relationship, founded on respect, understanding, and shared values, has endured both the test of time and public scrutiny.