What Joan Collins Might Have Looked like If She Had Never Become Famous – 5 Photos via AI
Joan Collins is widely known as a symbol of Old Hollywood glamour, beloved for her timeless elegance and captivating screen presence. However, AI images offer a fascinating glimpse into an alternate reality — what the actress might have looked like if she had never reached the heights of stardom.
Joan Collins, born on May 23, 1933, in London, England, is a name synonymous with glamour and resilience. Over a career spanning more than seven decades, she transformed from a starry-eyed young girl into an enduring symbol of Hollywood royalty.
Her life, however, didn't begin with the glitz and glamour she would later embody. The eldest of three children, the star was born to Elsa Collins, a former nightclub hostess, and Joseph Collins, a successful talent agent whose clientele included iconic figures like Tom Jones and the Beatles.
Despite her father's prestigious connections, her early years were defined more by the challenges of wartime London than by her future life of luxury.
During World War II, the Collins family often sought refuge in London's Tube stations as German bombs rained down, creating an environment of uncertainty and survival.
Even in such times, Collins' beauty and charm were undeniable. Her striking features earned her so much attention as a baby that her mother famously placed a sign on her stroller that read, "Do Not Kiss."
As she grew, Collins showed an early interest in performing and was encouraged to pursue her passion. She attended the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), where her talent began to shine.
Joan Collins circa 1951. | Source: Getty Images
By 17, she had landed her first acting role, portraying a juvenile delinquent in "I Believe in You." Her natural flair for acting and striking screen presence caught the attention of film executives, leading her to Hollywood in the 1950s.
Celia Johnson and Joan Collins filming "I Believe In You" circa 1952. | Source: Getty Images
Upon arriving in Los Angeles, Collins' journey to stardom was gradual. Her first film role in "Lady Godiva Rides Again" was uncredited, but it marked the beginning of her rise. She appeared in a series of films, often cast as the sultry or rebellious character, a persona she played effortlessly.
Joan Collins circa 1953. | Source: Getty Images
Her work in "Land of the Pharaohs" and "The Girl in the Red Velvet Swing" showcased her ability to command the screen, even if critical acclaim initially eluded her.
By 1955, Collins signed with 20th Century Fox and was touted as the new Elizabeth Taylor. While this comparison placed immense pressure on her, she worked diligently, gaining recognition not only for her talent but also for her striking beauty and poised demeanor.
Joan Collins circa 1955. | Source: Getty Images
Her breakthrough came in the 1980s when she took on the iconic role of Alexis Carrington Colby in the television series "Dynasty." The character, a scheming and glamorous matriarch, became one of the most memorable in television history.
Alongside her professional successes, Collins' personal life became just as much a topic of public fascination. Over the years, she experienced a series of high-profile marriages, some of which ended in heartbreak.
Joan Collins on the set of "Dynasty" circa 1981. | Source: Getty Images
Collins' first two marriages — to Maxwell Reed and Anthony Newley — ended in divorce, as did her subsequent unions with Ron Kass and Peter Holm. Despite these setbacks, she remained optimistic about love, eventually finding stability with Percy Gibson, whom she married in 2002.
Percy Gibson and Joan Collins at the Ninth Annual Vanity Fair Oscar Party on March 24, 2002, in West Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images
The actress credited her long-lasting marriage to Gibson with shared interests, mutual respect, and a practical approach to cohabitation. "Separate bathrooms and the same bedroom," she once quipped.
As she's grown older, Collins has refused to let age define her or slow her down. Turning 90 in 2023, she continued to work, perform, and write, proving that vitality is a state of mind.
"There's far too much fuss about aging," she remarked in an interview. "You see people in their 90s and 100s doing amazing things – running and jumping on Instagram – there's no reason to fall apart."
The "Dynasty' star credited her youthful energy to a combination of regular stretching exercises, Zoom workouts, and a commitment to staying active both physically and mentally.
Collins is not just an actress, but also a writer, having penned 19 books. "I love writing, I love acting, going onstage and doing my little one-woman show, and I refuse to be defined by a number, by an age. I think that's terribly old-fashioned and not relevant in today's world," she said.
Through her impressive career and timeless glamour, Collins built a life as extraordinary as the characters she portrayed. But what might the actress have looked like if she had never achieved fame and fortune? What if she had lived an ordinary life away from the limelight? See how AI imagines an alternative reality for this timeless star.
A Glimpse into an Alternate Reality
In this AI-generated image of Collins, she is portrayed in a lighthearted and approachable way. Dressed in a vibrant pink sweater, she sits in a lush garden, holding a deep purple flower.
Her short bangs and neatly styled hair complement her glowing smile, exuding a sense of joy and contentment in a natural and relaxed setting.
A graceful version of Joan Collins in a garden setting, radiating a down-to-earth aura via AI. | Source: Midjourney
This AI-generated image presents the actress in a sophisticated and poised manner. Her neatly styled dark hair frames her face, highlighting her bold red lipstick and expressive eyes.
She wears a patterned sweater with soft gold tones and elegant gold jewelry, exuding a refined and professional air. The soft background enhances her composed and dignified presence.
Joan Collins envisioned as a professional, exuding refinement in a patterned sweater and gold jewelry via AI. | Source: Midjourney
This AI-generated image portrays Collins holding a delicate yellow flower in a tranquil garden. Dressed in a soft lavender sweater, she exudes grace and calm.
Her short, styled hair and radiant complexion enhance her natural beauty, reflecting an approachable yet timeless charm against the lush floral backdrop.
A cheerful Joan Collins holding flowers, reflecting an approachable and lighthearted personality via AI. | Source: Midjourney
This AI rendition of the "Dynasty" star showcases her in a classy and understated look. Her wavy gray hair is styled neatly, and she wears amber-colored glasses that complement her thoughtful expression.
The patterned sweater and subtle earrings add a touch of personality, while her red lipstick enhances her polished appearance.
A casual Joan Collins, showcasing a natural yet sophisticated look with classic glasses via AI. | Source: Midjourney
This AI-generated image reimagines Collins in a refined and elegant style. Wearing a pastel yellow sweater and a gold chain necklace, she exudes timeless sophistication. Her perfectly coiffed hair and chic glasses frame her face, while her warm expression and subtle makeup highlight her graceful charm.
Joan Collins imagined as an elegant retiree with a timeless charm via AI. | Source: Midjourney
These AI-generated images of Joan Collins offer a glimpse into an alternate reality, showing how she might have looked without the influence of fame and fortune. Yet, no matter the scenario, Collins' charm and grace remain undeniably captivating.