Joan Collins, 91, Overcomes Heartbreak in Four Marriages to Find Happiness with Younger Theater Manager — See Their Sweet Moments Together

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.

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

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.

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, 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.

On January 30, 1982, Joan Collins attended the 39th Annual Golden Globe Awards with Ronald S. Kass. A former music executive, Kass was a significant presence in her life despite the financial and personal struggles that eventually strained their marriage. | Source: Getty Images
On January 29, 1983, Joan Collins attended the 40th Annual Golden Globe Awards with Ronald S. Kass. The pair shared moments of elegance and joy, capturing the allure of Collins’ life both on and off the screen. | Source: Getty Images
In 1983, Joan Collins attended the Young Musicians Annual Celebrity Mother-Daughter Fashion Show Luncheon with Peter Holm. Their relationship was highly scrutinized, eventually ending in a turbulent divorce that would outlast the marriage itself. | Source: Getty Images

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.

On April 16, 2001, Joan Collins attended the 12th Annual GLAAD Media Awards with Percy Gibson. Their relationship would soon grow into a lasting marriage, defying public skepticism over their age difference. | Source: Getty Images
In 2002, Joan Collins and Percy Gibson were photographed together at a party. Their blossoming relationship continued to capture attention, with the couple displaying a strong bond early on. | Source: Getty Images
On March 10, 2024, Joan Collins attended the Vanity Fair Oscar Party with Percy Gibson. More than two decades into their marriage, the couple remains a striking presence on the red carpet. | Source: Getty Images
On March 10, 2024, Joan Collins attended the Vanity Fair Oscar Party with Percy Gibson. More than two decades into their marriage, the couple remains a striking presence on the red carpet. | Source: Getty Images
On May 20, 2024, Joan Collins and Percy Gibson attended the RHS Chelsea Flower Show at the Killik & Co “Money Doesn’t Grow On Trees” Garden, showcasing their enduring partnership amid vibrant surroundings. | Source: Getty Images

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.