Jackie Collins was a prolific British author, born on April 10, 1937, in London, England. She is best known for her steamy romance novels, many of which have graced the pages of the New York Times bestsellers list. Her writing style was bold and unapologetic, often pushing the boundaries of traditional romance literature.
Before achieving fame as a novelist, Jackie had a rather unconventional start in the entertainment industry. At the age of fifteen, she was expelled from school and decided to pursue a career in acting. She appeared in several British B-movies before transitioning to writing. In 1968, she published her first novel, "The World Is Full of Married Men." The book caused quite a stir and was even banned in countries like South Africa and Australia for its scandalous content.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Jackie's life was her inspiration for her novels. At a young age, she had a brief but intense relationship with actor Marlon Brando, which fueled her creativity and informed her writing. This early experience with love and passion undoubtedly shaped the themes and characters in her books.
Family was also an integral part of Jackie's life. Her older sister, the legendary actress Joan Collins, achieved fame in her own right with roles in movies like "The Girl in the Red Velvet Swing" and "Rally 'Round the Flag, Boys!" Despite their different career paths, the sisters remained close throughout their lives. Jackie herself was married twice, first to Wallace Austin and later to Oscar Lerman. She became a mother to three children during the 1960s, balancing her personal life with her burgeoning writing career.
Throughout her career, Jackie was a trailblazer in the literary world. She fearlessly tackled topics like sex, relationships, and power dynamics, garnering a devoted following of readers who appreciated her frank and empowering approach to storytelling. Her novels were often adapted into films, some of which she even wrote the screenplays for.
In addition to her writing, Jackie was known for her philanthropy and advocacy work. She supported various causes related to women's empowerment and education, using her platform to uplift and inspire others. Her legacy as a groundbreaking author and cultural icon continues to influence aspiring writers and readers around the world.
Sadly, Jackie Collins passed away on September 19, 2015, but her impact on the literary world remains indelible. Her bold and unapologetic storytelling has left a lasting impression on generations of readers, solidifying her status as a true pioneer in the world of romance literature. Jackie's legacy lives on through her timeless novels, inspiring future authors to embrace their creativity and embrace their unique voices.