Dynasty star Joan Collins saw off a host of stars half her age on Tuesday to be voted Icon of the Year at the Maxim awards, proving that her enduring glamour and feisty style have captured the hearts and minds of a whole new generation.
The average age of the nominees, who included Cat Deeley, Atomic Kitten and Sophie Ellis-Bexton, was 25, but it was 68-year old Joan who scooped the gong and brought the crowd to its feet in a standing ovation.
“This is marvellous to get this award after being around for so many years,” said Joan after accepting the award from longtime friend Nigel Havers. “It is very nice and very flattering, although I feel like a ritual object.”
The actress, who two months ago walked down the aisle with 35-year-old Percy Gibson, recommended marriage as a great tonic, saying she still felt as if she was on honeymoon. “I’d recommend marriage to anyone,” said five-times’ wedded Joan. “I’m working on a book for September about my lifestyle and how to be happy and, yes, how to have a great wedding.”
Other winners included EastEnders star Jessie Wallace – better known as Kat Slater – who was named Woman of the Year. Kacey Ainsworth, who plays Little Mo accepted the award on her co-star’s behalf. The title of Maxim International Woman of the Year went to the model Caprice for the third time in a row, while the Best Film Actress gong was awarded to Australian star Nicole Kidman.
The ceremony at the Park Lane Hotel was hosted by Johnny Vaughan and attended by a host of female showbiz names. Other ladies honoured at the magazine’s awards included Kylie Minogue and her sister Dannii, Fay Ripley and Ronni Ancona.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
