Joan Collins

Joan Collins is an English actress and author whose career spans more than seven decades across film, television, and stage. Collins trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and initially gained attention for roles as troubled teenagers, earning the nickname Britain's Bad Girl. A significant breakthrough came with her portrayal of Princess Nellifer in "Land of the Pharaohs," directed by Howard Hawks, which led to her entry into Hollywood. While filming, she was noticed by Hollywood executive Darryl F. Zanuck, and her British film contract was acquired by Twentieth Century-Fox. Collins attracted further attention for her roles in "The Stud" and its sequel, "The Bitch," both adaptations of romance novels by her sister Jackie Collins.

The success of these films contributed to her casting as Alexis Colby in the second season of the primetime soap opera "Dynasty." Her performance as Alexis Carrington, the glamorous and ruthless ex-wife of oil tycoon Blake Carrington, established Collins as a defining television star. The character became known for sharp dialogue, elaborate fashion, and dramatic rivalries, helping turn "Dynasty" into one of the most prominent soap operas in television history. For her work on the series, Collins received six Golden Globe Award nominations, winning once, and was also nominated for an Emmy Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series. She was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for career achievement. Producer Aaron Spelling credited Collins with bringing the character of Alexis to life in a way that defined the show.

Collins returned to mainstream television with recurring roles in series such as "Happily Divorced," "The Royals," "Benidorm," and "American Horror Story: Apocalypse." Her first starring film role since the 1980s was in "The Time of Their Lives," and she also appeared in the film "Gerry." Collins has toured the United Kingdom and internationally with her one-woman shows, "An Evening with Joan Collins" and "Joan Collins Unscripted," sharing insights from her career and life in entertainment.

In addition to acting, Collins has established a successful career as an author, publishing numerous novels, memoirs, and lifestyle books. Her works, including memoirs such as "Past Imperfect" and "The World According to Joan," offer perspectives on Hollywood and her personal experiences. She has written more than 15 books, with total sales exceeding 50 million copies worldwide.

Collins was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for services to drama and was later made a Dame by Queen Elizabeth II for her charitable work. She has been recognized with honors such as the EON Productions Lifetime Achievement Award at the Women in Film and TV Awards. Collins's enduring presence in the entertainment industry reflects her adaptability and influence, connecting multiple generations of Hollywood history.