Just three days ago Joan Collins was devastated by the death of her younger sister Jackie Collins. But, determined not to let her illustrator friend David Downton down, the actress put on a brave face to attend his book launch on Tuesday night.Dame Joan, 82, was supported by her husband Percy Gibson and her daughter Katy as she stepped out for the unveiling of Portraits of the World's Most Stylish Women at Claridge's in London. The British star, who stayed close to her loved ones throughout the night, looked as glamorous as ever in a black dress and an embroidered jacket.
© Photo: RexDame Joan Collins pictured with her husband Percy Gibson and daughter Katy Collins
The event no doubt came as a welcome distraction for Joan, who is still mourning the death of her sister. Jackie passed away on Saturday in her Beverly Hills mansion aged 77. She was diagnosed with breast cancer six-and-a-half years ago, and had primarily only confided in her three daughters. It was only recently that she shared the news with her older sister."I just felt she didn't need it in her life," best-selling author Jackie told People earlier this month. "She's very positive and very social but I'm not sure how strong she is, so I didn't want to burden her with it."
Joan paid a moving tribute to younger sister Jackie following her death on Saturday
Following Jackie's death, Joan paid a moving tribute to her on Twitter. "Farewell to my beautiful brave baby sister. I will love and miss you forever. Rest in peace," she wrote alongside a sepia-toned photo showing the pair in their childhood years, with Joan wrapping a protective arm around Jackie.She later spoke to People about her admiration for Jackie. "She was my best friend. I admire how she handled this," she said. "She was a wonderful, brave and beautiful person and I love her."
