Hollywood legend Joan Collins set to portray ‘iconic’ royal figure

Feb 03, 2025
“I am thrilled about the challenge of playing this iconic woman in a previously untold story." Source: Getty Images.

Renowned Hollywood legend Joan Collins will take on the role of royal figure Wallis Simpson in an upcoming biopic about the Duchess of Windsor’s life.

Simpson was an American socialite whose relationship with King Edward VIII led to his abdication in 1936. Edward, who became king after his father’s death, was deeply in love with Wallis, a twice-divorced woman. At the time, the Church of England didn’t allow remarriage of divorced people with living ex-spouses.

When Edward proposed to Simpson the British government and the church opposed it. Faced with the choice of marrying Simpson or remaining king, Edward chose Wallis and in December 1936, he abdicated the throne,

During an interview with The Guardian, Collins expressed her excitement at the prospect of telling Simpson’s story.

“I am thrilled about the challenge of playing this iconic woman in a previously untold story,” Collins said.

Reportedly titled The Bitter End, the film will focus on Simpson’s final years, leading up to her passing in 1986 at the age of 89.

Collins had previously revealed to The Guardian that the script had been written for her while offering some details on the upcoming film.

“It’s the true story of the last years of the Duchess of Windsor after the Duke dies. She was abused by this woman who took her over and took away her objects, her money, and left her practically destitute,” Collins said.

“You see her first of all when she’s full of pep and she’s got her young acolytes around her, then bit by bit she is destroyed by circumstances.

“It’s a very good script and it’s a great part for me. I’ve always been fascinated by Wallis, because I think she was unfairly treated.”

With a career spanning over six decades, Collins has built a stellar legacy in the entertainment industry. She rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s, starring in a string of successful films, including The Girl in the Red Velvet Swing and The Stud. However, it was her iconic role as the glamorous and conniving Alexis Carrington in the hit television series Dynasty that catapulted her to global stardom.

Throughout her career, she has received numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Beyond her acting prowess, Collins is also an accomplished author, philanthropist, and advocate for various charitable causes.

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