‘WE WERE ABSOLUTE SOULMATES'

In her first interview since his passing, Bill Collins’ widow reveals their marriage was like a Hollywood love story

- Craig Bennett

It’s been a little over a year since beloved Australian film critic Bill Collins – loved by millions as TV’s “Mr Movies” – died peacefully in his sleep at the age of 84 in June 2019, but for his heartbroken widow Joan, the outpouring of love from family, friends and fans is what continues to provide comfort from her immeasurable grief.

“I was completely overwhelmed by so many beautiful, heartfelt sentiments,” says Joan. “Following Bill’s death, I’d spend hours reading through the truly lovely comments about Bill on the internet. He was so adored, and those messages brought me tremendous consolation.

“Bill was a big softy when it came to dogs, and our beloved shih tzu puppies Lily and Lucy have also provided much peace,” admits Joan, 89, a retired businesswoman.

“It took me a long time before I was able to watch any of Bill’s Golden Years Of Hollywood on Foxtel, or revisit any of the wonderful movies we used to adore watching together, like his favourites Gone With The Wind and The Wizard Of Oz – or mine, which is The Razor’s Edge. But now I do, and watching them brings back a warm feeling, and I feel a definite connection to Bill.”