Dame Joan Collins, the 93-year-old British actress best known for Dynasty, was awarded the Power of Women Icon of the Year award at the Variety event in London. In a recent interview, she attributed her youthful appearance to good genes, eight hours of sleep, and regular exercise, while stating she is 'appalled' by peers who undergo plastic surgery. Collins also confirmed her upcoming role as Wallis Simpson in the biopic My Duchess.

Collins's 'good genes' and the eight-hour sleep rule — the specifics of her regimen

According to the report, Collins does not follow fad diets or regimented health routines. Instead, she emphasises healthy living, eight hours of sleep nightly, and regular exercise. She also follows the mantra 'prevention is better than cure', seeing a doctor at the first sign of illness. These concrete practices, she says, have kept her vibrant into her nineties.

The actress further credits her mental wellbeing to a happy childhood and prioritising loved ones . Notably, Collins stated she has 'never had any reason to think about' mental health, framing her emotional resilience as a product of circumstance rather than effort.

Why Collins is 'appalled' by plastic surgery — and what that says about Hollywood's generational split

Collins told reporters she is ageing naturally and is 'appalled' by fellow stars who have indulged in plastic surgery. Her stance positions her in contrast with many younger celebrities who openly discuss cosmetic procedures. This divide reflects a broader generational shift: older Hollywood figures often champion 'natural' ageing, while younger actors navigate pressures to maintain a certain look through medical interventions.

As the source notes, Collins's refusl to 'go under the knife' makes her an inspiration to many. But it also highlights the industry's double standard — where women are simultaneously praised for not altering themselves and criticised when they do.

The report does not quote any countervailing voices from those who have chosen surgery, leaving the perspective one-sided.

The $64,000 question: Can 'good genes' alone explain her appearance — and what is left out?

The interview attributes Collins's looks largely to heredity and lifestyle, but several open questions remain. First,the report provides no independent verification of her medical history or whether she uses non-surgical treatments such as laser therapy, skincare products, or injectables — common enough among celebrities who claim 'natural' ageing. Second, it does not address the role of makeup, lighting, or professional styling at the red-carpet event.. Third, no comment from dermatologists or gerontologists appears in the source to contextualise whether her regimen is plausible for an average 93-year-old.

Without these details, readers are left with only Collins's own account, which may be incomplete.

A role at 93: What 'My Duchess' signals about age and ambition in the industry

Collins has been cast as Wallis Simpson in the upcoming biopic My Duchess, proving that major roles are still being offered to actors in their nineties. This is rare — most Hollywood scripts for older women are limited to matriarchs or comic relief. By taking on a historical figure with complexity, Collins challenges that norm. The source does not reveal the film's release date or production timeline, but the announcement itself reinforces her continued relevance.

This career move, combined with her award, suggests that the entertainment industry still rewards established icons, even as it struggles to create similar opportunities for less famous older performers.