Dame Joan Collins recently experienced a deeply personal and joyful moment as she proudly walked her only son, Alexander Newley, down the aisle at his wedding to Sheela Raman in the picturesque setting of Salzburg, Austria. The event was not just a celebration of love but also a significant milestone for Collins, who, at 92, remains an iconic figure in the entertainment industry.
The couple’s wedding was beautifully documented on social media, where they shared heartwarming footage that captured the essence of their special day. In one striking moment, viewers could see Collins walking arm-in-arm with Newley, now 60, as they made their way to the ceremony at a stunning lakeside castle. The sight of Collins, adorned in an elegant light blue dress complemented by a matching hat and white heels, was a testament to her timeless grace.
The ceremony was filled with poignant moments, including the proud grandmother seated in the front row, beaming as she watched Newley and Raman’s 3-year-old daughter, Deia Shanaya, make her entrance down the aisle. The couple’s choice of attire added to the occasion’s charm, with Newley looking dapper in a classic black and white suit, while Raman radiated beauty in a vintage-inspired lace gown.
In their Instagram post, the newlyweds expressed their heartfelt sentiments: “What a gift to stand side-by-side, surrounded by our beloved friends and family, as we step into this new chapter together.” Their words painted a vivid picture of a day not just marked by celebration but also a reflection of the life they are building together, filled with music, laughter, and the joys of parenthood. They expressed deep gratitude to their friends and family who traveled from afar to share in their joy, emphasizing the sacred nature of the day.
Collins herself chimed in on the post, describing the experience as “a magical three days,” further highlighting the significance of the event in her life.
The couple’s journey to the altar was not without its obstacles. Newley and Raman got engaged in 2019, but their original wedding plans in the South of France were thwarted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Newley, who shares a daughter named Ava Grace with his first wife, Angela Tassoni, is also the son of Collins and her late second husband, Anthony Newley. The legacy of love continues with Collins, who was married to Anthony from 1963 until their divorce in 1970, and together they had two children: Tara, 61, and Alexander.
Reflecting on her role as a mother, Collins has often shared her insights in interviews. In a recent discussion with Hello! Magazine, she noted, “What makes me happiest is seeing my children happy.” This sentiment underscores the importance she places on family, a value that resonates deeply within her. She expressed gratitude for the life she has led, recognizing the hard work and perseverance that have brought her to where she is today. “Honestly, life makes me happy and I’m very aware of how lucky I am,” she shared, encapsulating a mindset that many aspire to emulate.
As Collins continues to celebrate the milestones of her children, her journey serves as a reminder of the enduring bonds of family, love, and resilience. With a vibrant legacy in the arts and a rich familial tapestry, she embodies the spirit of joy and gratitude that enriches life’s most cherished moments.
