Phil Collins Bio, Age, Height, Wife, Family, Affairs, Career, Stats, Net Worth

Phil Collins is a legendary English musician, singer, songwriter, drummer, and actor whose influence spans decades in the rock and pop worlds. Best known as the drummer and lead vocalist for the iconic band Genesis, as well as his blockbuster solo career with hits like “In the Air Tonight” and “Another Day in Paradise,” Collins has sold over 150 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling artists of all time. From his early days in London to global stardom, his journey blends progressive rock innovation with heartfelt pop anthems, earning him accolades including an Academy Award and multiple Grammys.

Quick Facts

Early Life & Education

Phil Collins entered the world on January 30, 1951, in Chiswick, London, England, as the youngest of three children in a creative and hardworking family. His father, Greville, worked as an insurance agent, while his mother, Winifred (known as June), managed a toy shop before becoming a theatrical agent at the Barbara Speake Stage School. Growing up in West London neighborhoods like Brentford and Chiswick, Collins showed an early passion for music and performance. At just five years old, he received a toy drum kit from his parents, sparking a lifelong love for drumming. He honed his skills by mimicking rhythms from television and radio, drawing inspiration from The Beatles’ Ringo Starr, Motown beats, and jazz legends like Buddy Rich.

Collins attended Nelson Primary School in Twickenham until 1962, then moved to Chiswick County Grammar School. There, he played football and formed his first bands, including The Real Thing and Freehold, while exploring his musical talents. He never learned formal musical notation, instead developing his own intuitive system for drumming. Alongside music, Collins pursued acting through drama school training at Barbara Speake, landing early roles that blended his interests in performance. His brother Clive became a noted cartoonist, and his sister Carole pursued ice skating and theatrical work, fostering a family environment rich in artistic pursuits. These formative years in London laid the groundwork for Collins’ multifaceted career in music and entertainment.

Career Journey

Phil Collins’ career is a remarkable evolution from child actor and session drummer to global rock superstar, marked by innovation, chart-topping success, and artistic versatility. Spanning over six decades, his journey includes groundbreaking work with Genesis, a prolific solo path, and contributions to film and philanthropy.

Beginnings in Acting and Early Bands (1960s–1970)

Collins kicked off his professional life as a child actor, appearing uncredited in The Beatles’ film A Hard Day’s Night (1964) and starring as the Artful Dodger in the West End production of Oliver! (1964). He featured in Calamity the Cow (1967) and auditioned for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968), though some roles were cut. By his teens, music took precedence; he played in bands like the Cliff Charles Blues Band, Gladiators, and Flaming Youth, releasing the album Ark 2 (1969). In 1970, he contributed congas to George Harrison’s “Art of Dying” on All Things Must Pass, though his part was omitted from the final mix.

Rise with Genesis (1970–1996)

Joining Genesis in 1970 as drummer and backing vocalist after a Melody Maker audition, Collins became the band’s lead singer in 1975 following Peter Gabriel’s exit. He brought a pop-infused energy to their progressive rock sound, contributing to albums like Nursery Cryme (1971), Selling England by the Pound (1973), and A Trick of the Tail (1976). Hits such as “Follow You Follow Me” (1978) marked their commercial breakthrough. During band hiatuses, Collins drummed for jazz-fusion group Brand X (1976–1978) and collaborated on projects with artists like Peter Gabriel and Thin Lizzy. Genesis’ 1980s era, including Duke (1980), Abacab (1981), and Invisible Touch (1986), produced smashes like “Land of Confusion” and “I Can’t Dance,” selling over 100 million albums worldwide.

Solo Breakthrough and 1980s Dominance (1981–1989)

Collins launched his solo career amid personal turmoil, releasing Face Value (1981) with the iconic “In the Air Tonight,” famous for its gated reverb drum sound. The album topped charts globally. Follow-ups like Hello, I Must Be Going! (1982) featured covers such as “You Can’t Hurry Love,” while No Jacket Required (1985) became a mega-hit with tracks like “Sussudio,” “One More Night,” and “Don’t Lose My Number,” selling over 12 million copies in the US alone. He performed at Live Aid (1985), drumming for Led Zeppelin and appearing at both Wembley and Philadelphia venues via Concorde. Collaborations included “Easy Lover” with Philip Bailey (1984) and producing for Eric Clapton. …But Seriously (1989) tackled social issues, with “Another Day in Paradise” earning a Grammy for Record of the Year.

1990s Versatility and Disney Success (1990–1999)

The 1990s saw Collins balance Genesis with solo work. Both Sides (1993) was introspective, followed by tours like the Both Sides of the World Tour (1994–1995). He formed the Phil Collins Big Band (1996–1998) for jazz reinterpretations. Dance into the Light (1996) experimented with world music. Leaving Genesis in 1996, he focused on film scores, winning an Academy Award for “You’ll Be in My Heart” from Disney’s Tarzan (1999), performing it in multiple languages.

Later Years, Reunions, and Retirement (2000–2026)

The 2000s brought Testify (2002) with hits like “Can’t Stop Loving You,” and contributions to Disney’s Brother Bear (2003). Genesis reunited for the Turn It On Again Tour (2007) and The Last Domino? Tour (2021–2022), their final shows. Collins’ Motown covers album Going Back (2010) was a passion project. Health issues led to retirement in 2011, but he returned with the Not Dead Yet Tour (2017–2019) and remastered albums. In 2026, at age 75, Collins hinted at potential studio work despite ongoing health challenges, including five knee surgeries and kidney issues, requiring 24-hour nursing care.

Career Stats

• Genesis Albums Sold: Over 100 million worldwide
• Solo Albums Sold: 150 million records globally; 33.5 million certified units in the US
• Notable Albums: Face Value (1981), No Jacket Required (1985), …But Seriously (1989), Invisible Touch (1986) with Genesis
• Hit Singles: 7 US No. 1s as solo artist (e.g., “Against All Odds,” “Sussudio”); 3 UK No. 1s
• Film/TV Appearances: Buster (1988), Miami Vice (1985 episode), Hook (1991 cameo), Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories (2006 voice)
• Tours: Over 10 major world tours, including The No Jacket Required World Tour (1985) and The Last Domino? Tour (2022)
• Discography Highlights: 8 solo studio albums; Key Genesis albums: 12 from 1971–1991

Alt text: Phil Collins on stage with Genesis, capturing a key moment in his rock band career.

Personal Life

Phil Collins’ personal life has been as eventful as his career, marked by multiple marriages, a large family, and dedication to philanthropy amid health struggles. He has been married three times, each relationship influencing his music and public persona.

Family, Spouses, and Children

Collins’ first marriage was to Canadian actress Andrea Bertorelli in 1975. They met as teenagers at drama school in London. Collins adopted Bertorelli’s daughter Joely (born 1972), now an actress and producer, and they had son Simon (born 1976), who became a musician and frontman for Sound of Contact. The couple divorced in 1980 amid Collins’ rising fame with Genesis, inspiring much of his debut solo album Face Value.

In 1984, Collins married American actress Jill Tavelman. They had daughter lily collins (born 1989), who rose to fame as an actress in films like The Blind Side and the series Emily in Paris. The marriage ended in 1996 with a £17 million settlement, fueling songs like “Against All Odds.”

Collins’ third marriage was to Swiss jewelry designer Orianne Cevey in 1999. They had sons Nicholas (born 2001), a drummer who performed with his father on tours, and Matthew (born 2004), a footballer. The couple divorced in 2008 with a £25 million settlement but reconciled in 2016 after Cevey’s health scare. Tensions arose in 2020 when Cevey remarried secretly, leading to an eviction battle over Collins’ Miami mansion. As of 2026, their status remains complex.

Collins also had a long-term relationship with American news anchor Dana Tyler from 2007 to 2016. He has five children in total and is a devoted grandfather. His extended family includes brother Clive, a cartoonist honored with an MBE in 2012, and sister Carole.

Hobbies, Interests, and Community Involvement

Beyond music, Collins is passionate about history, particularly the Battle of the Alamo; he collected artifacts and donated a multimillion-dollar collection to Texas in 2014, earning honorary Texan status in 2015. He enjoys model railways, toy soldiers from King & Country, and soccer, supporting teams like Tottenham Hotspur. Philanthropically, he co-founded the Little Dreams Foundation in 2000 with Cevey to support young talents in sports and arts, mentoring prodigies with help from figures like tina turner. He’s performed at Prince’s Trust events since 1982, raising funds for UK youth, and supported causes like Parkinson’s UK and homelessness awareness through songs like “Another Day in Paradise.” In 2026, Collins resides primarily in Miami, focusing on family amid health recovery.

Dating History/Affairs

Collins’ relationships have often been public. His first marriage to Bertorelli ended amid rumors of affairs linked to his touring schedule. Post-divorce from Tavelman, he dated several women before meeting Cevey. His relationship with Tyler was stable but ended amicably due to distance. No major affairs have been confirmed beyond marital overlaps speculated in media during his 1980s peak fame.

Controversies

Throughout his career, Collins faced backlash for his ubiquity in the 1980s, with critics like Oasis’ Noel and Liam Gallagher labeling him overexposed and “boring.” David Bowie and Roger Waters criticized his music as “faceless,” while Billy Bragg accused him of hypocrisy in addressing homelessness in “Another Day in Paradise” without sufficient action—though Collins donated concert proceeds to charities. Divorce settlements drew tabloid scrutiny, with his £25 million payout to Cevey in 2008 being one of Britain’s largest. Health rumors, including false death hoaxes, persisted, and in 2020, he issued a cease-and-desist to donald trump for using “In the Air Tonight” at a rally. Urban legends about his songs, like drowning myths tied to “In the Air Tonight,” fueled misinformation. In 2026, his eviction battle with ex-wife Cevey resurfaced in headlines, highlighting ongoing personal disputes.

Awards & Achievements

• Grammy Awards: 8 wins, including Album of the Year for No Jacket Required (1986), Record of the Year for “Another Day in Paradise” (1991), and Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for “Against All Odds” (1985).
• Brit Awards: 6 wins, including Best British Male Artist (three times: 1986, 1989, 1990) and British Album of the Year for No Jacket Required (1986).
• Academy Award: Best Original Song for “You’ll Be in My Heart” from Tarzan (2000).
• Golden Globe Awards: 2 wins, including Best Original Song for “You’ll Be in My Heart” (2000) and “Two Hearts” from Buster (1989).
• Ivor Novello Awards: 6, including International Achievement Award.
• Other Honors: Disney Legend (2002); Hollywood Walk of Fame star (1999); Songwriters Hall of Fame (2003); Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Genesis (2010) and as solo artist (2022); Modern Drummer Hall of Fame (2012); Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order (LVO, 1994) for Prince’s Trust work; Honorary doctorates from Fairleigh Dickinson University (1987), Berklee College of Music (1991), and McMurry University (2012).

Physical Statistics

• Height: 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 m)
• Weight: Approximately 65 kg (143 lbs)
• Build: Average; has faced mobility issues due to spinal injuries and surgeries
• Hair Color: Bald (naturally brown in youth)
• Eye Color: Blue
• Other Notes: In 2026, Collins requires 24-hour nursing care following five knee surgeries, kidney problems from past alcohol use, and a severe spinal injury from 2009 that affected his drumming ability. He uses a cane or wheelchair for mobility but reports feeling “totally mobile and healthy” after recent recoveries.

Quotes

• “When I drive down the street, I see the same things everyone else sees. It’s a misconception that if you have a lot of money you’re somehow out of touch with reality.” (Responding to criticism of “Another Day in Paradise.”)
• “I had a wife, two children, two dogs, and the next day I didn’t have anything. So a lot of these songs were written because I was going through these emotional changes.” (On the inspiration for Face Value.)
• “I’ve always felt that if I could hum it, I could play it. For me, that was good enough, but that attitude is bad.” (Reflecting on his self-taught drumming style.)

Favorites

While Collins hasn’t publicly detailed extensive favorites, insights from interviews reveal preferences: Favorite drummers include Buddy Rich and Ringo Starr; he enjoys Motown and soul music, as seen in Going Back (2010); historical interests like the Alamo; and simple pleasures like family time and model trains.

Salary & Net Worth

Phil Collins’ earnings peaked in the 1980s and 1990s from album sales, tours, and film work. He earned millions from Genesis royalties and solo hits, with No Jacket Required alone generating substantial revenue through over 25 million copies sold worldwide. Tour income, like the $65 million from Genesis’ 2007 reunion, added to his wealth. Disney soundtrack deals for Tarzan and Brother Bear brought in high six figures, plus residuals. Industry benchmarks for top artists in his era suggest annual earnings of $10–20 million at peak. Divorce settlements reduced his fortune, but catalog sales and streaming continue to provide passive income.

As of 2026, his net worth is estimated at $350 million, derived from 150 million record sales, real estate (including a Miami mansion valued at $40 million), and investments. This places him among the richest drummers, behind only Ringo Starr, per sources like Celebrity Net Worth and Sunday Times Rich List.

Interesting Facts

• Collins flew Concorde to perform at both Live Aid venues in 1985, a feat no other artist achieved.
• He donated his multimillion-dollar Alamo collection to Texas in 2014 and was named an honorary Texan.
• His “In the Air Tonight” drum fill inspired the famous Cadbury Gorilla ad in 2007.
• Collins appeared in Miami Vice as a drug dealer in the 1985 episode “Phil the Shill.”
• He has type 2 diabetes (diagnosed 2017) and overcame a three-year alcohol struggle, sober since 2013.
• His daughter Lily married director charlie mcdowell in 2021, making Malcolm McDowell his father-in-law.

Did You Know Already?

Did you know Collins never learned to read musical notation, relying on his ear and memory? Or that he played drums on Brian Eno’s Another Green World (1975) and Led Zeppelin’s reunion at Live Aid? His influence extends to hip-hop, with samples in tracks by Kanye West and Beyoncé.

Social Media Links

• Official Website: philcollins.com
• Twitter/X: @PhilCollinsFeed (fan-managed updates)
• Instagram: @officialphilcollins
• Facebook: @philcollins
• YouTube: Phil Collins Official
• LinkedIn: Not active (professional network not emphasized)

(Note: Collins maintains a low social media profile in 2026 due to health and retirement; official channels focus on legacy content.)

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is Phil Collins in 2026?
Phil Collins turned 75 on January 30, 2026. Born in 1951, he’s celebrated a milestone birthday amid reflections on his storied career.

What is Phil Collins’ net worth?
As of 2026, Phil Collins’ net worth is estimated at $350 million, built from record sales, tours, and film work.

Who is Phil Collins’ wife?
Phil Collins has been married three times. His most recent spouse is Orianne Cevey, whom he remarried in 2016 after a 2008 divorce, though they faced separation issues in 2020.

What are Phil Collins’ health issues?
In 2026, Collins requires 24-hour nursing care due to five knee surgeries, kidney problems from past alcohol use, and spinal injuries that ended his drumming. He remains optimistic about recovery.

How many children does Phil Collins have?
Phil Collins has five children: Joely (adopted), Simon, Lily, Nicholas, and Matthew, from his three marriages.

Is Phil Collins still making music?
While retired from touring since 2022, Collins hinted in 2026 at potential studio sessions to explore new music, calling it “something on my horizon.”

Conclusion

Phil Collins’ legacy as a drummer, singer, and storyteller endures, blending rock innovation with pop accessibility that resonated across generations. From Genesis’ progressive epics to solo ballads that topped charts worldwide, his contributions have shaped modern music. Despite health challenges in his later years, Collins’ resilience and passion inspire. If you enjoyed this biography, share it with fellow fans to celebrate his incredible journey!