A Public Expression of Grief
Reality television star Gemma Collins, known for her long-standing role on The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE), has expressed deep gratitude to her followers and friends for what she described as “holding me up with kindness.” The 45-year-old star announced the passing of her mother, Joan, on Thursday, July 30, 2026, following a period of illness.
In a heartfelt social media post, Collins shared an image of a private shrine she created to honor her mother, featuring a photograph, candles, flowers, and a statue of the Virgin Mary. Accompanying the image, she wrote, “Grief is the price we pay for love,” while acknowledging the overwhelming influx of messages she has received from the public.
Navigating the Waves of Loss
Collins provided an intimate look at her mourning process, noting that her experience with grief comes in “waves.” She explained to her supporters, “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every message, every prayer, every kind word. I’m reading them all and getting back to everyone slowly. Please bear with me.”
The star also shared a personal anecdote regarding a butterfly that has been appearing near her, which she interprets as a spiritual sign. “It brings me a sense of peace, and in my heart I truly feel it’s my mum letting me know she’s close, watching over me, and reminding me that love never really leaves us,” she wrote. Additionally, Collins mentioned that she has been finding solace in the music of The Beatles, noting her mother’s affection for the band and Paul McCartney.
Context of the Loss
Joan Collins had been a recognizable figure to TOWIE fans, having made several appearances on the series alongside her daughter. Her health had been a point of concern in recent months; she was hospitalized last month after battling pneumonia for the second time in six months. When announcing the loss, Gemma Collins described her heart as being “shattered into a million pieces,” while expressing hope that her mother is now “finally free from pain.”
The announcement drew an outpouring of support from the entertainment community. TOWIE co-star Jess Wright offered a simple, supportive message, stating, “Love you,” while Carol Wright added, “Thinking of you, your mum will be with you all the time. Never forget the love you had between you and your mummy.”