Get To Know Phil Collins’ Amazing Children
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Phil Collins’ contributions to music have shaped generations, both as the rhythmic powerhouse behind Genesis and as a solo artist whose emotional ballads and pop anthems topped charts worldwide. But beyond the spotlight, Collins has also experienced a full and sometimes turbulent personal life—marked by headline-grabbing relationships, public divorces, and complex family dynamics. While his professional accolades are well documented, his role as a father is a chapter often left out of the limelight.
Over the years, Collins has navigated fatherhood through three marriages and multiple high-profile separations, which drew intense scrutiny from the media. These personal setbacks, however, never diminished the connection he maintained with his children—biological and adopted—each of whom has carved a unique path, some following in his artistic footsteps and others forging entirely different careers. Despite the ups and downs of fame and fortune, family has remained a constant theme in Collins’ life story.
This article takes a closer look at the individuals who know Phil Collins not as a chart-topping icon, but simply as “Dad.” From rising stars in the entertainment world to private lives outside of fame, his children’s stories reveal the personal legacy of a rock legend whose influence stretches far beyond music.
Joely Collins
Joely Collins is Phil Collins’ eldest child, though not by blood. She was born Joely Meri Bertorelli in 1972 in Canada to Andrea Bertorelli, Phil’s first wife. When the two married in 1975, Phil adopted Joely, raising her as his own. Despite not sharing a biological connection, the bond between Phil and Joely remained strong, both personally and professionally.
Joely built a successful acting career, mainly in Canadian film and television. Her most notable work includes a long-running role on the drama series Cold Squad, and a part in the 2020 horror movie Brahms: The Boy II. She has also made her mark behind the scenes, exploring production work. In 2009, she gave birth to her daughter Zoë, making Phil a grandfather.
She has spoken openly about her admiration for Phil and his influence on her work ethic. In a 2013 interview, she said, “My dad’s a really, really hard worker. I’m able to dream big because I’ve seen what’s possible.” Her words reflect the inspiration she drew from her father’s dedication, even as she carved out a life and career of her own.
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Simon Collins
Simon Collins, born in 1976 in London, is Phil Collins’ first biological child. He shares a mother, Andrea Bertorelli, with Joely. From a young age, Simon was immersed in the world of music, often traveling on tour with Phil and absorbing the atmosphere of rock stardom. This early exposure helped shape his musical identity.
Choosing to follow in his father’s footsteps, Simon took up both drumming and vocals. He formed the prog-rock band Sound of Contact, building a solid reputation within the genre. Though comparisons to Phil were inevitable, Simon carved his own sound. Critics noted similarities in their voices, but Simon’s music leaned into a softer, more atmospheric direction.
Despite the strong musical legacy, Simon has shown great respect for his father’s iconic work. Speaking about Phil’s legendary drum solo in “In the Air Tonight,” Simon told the Daily Mail, “That’s his moment. I couldn’t compete with that.” It’s a telling comment that reflects both reverence and a desire to make his own mark.
Lily Collins
Lily Collins, born in 1989, is Phil’s only child with his second wife, Jill Tavelman. Like her older half-sister Joely, Lily pursued acting—but on a much larger, global scale. She has starred in several films and became a household name with her role as Emily in Netflix’s Emily in Paris, adding mainstream appeal to the family’s creative legacy.
Lily’s relationship with Phil has been complex. She has publicly acknowledged her feelings of abandonment during his long touring stints. In one letter, she wrote, “I was angry. I missed him and wanted him there.” These reflections were part of her healing process, detailed in her 2017 memoir, Unfiltered.
Despite past tensions, Lily has also expressed deep love and pride for her father. On his 70th birthday, she posted a tribute, saying, “Words aren’t enough to express how much love and pride I have for you.” It’s clear their relationship has matured over time, blending gratitude with personal growth.
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Nicholas “Nic” Collins
Born in 2001, Nicholas Collins is the first of two sons Phil had with his third wife, Orianne Cevey. Nic has embraced his musical heritage wholeheartedly, taking up the drums just like his father. Unlike Simon, who built a band of his own, Nic plays directly alongside Phil, often joining him on stage during tours.
Nic impressed fans and critics alike with his precision and stage presence. In a 2017 Rolling Stone interview, he spoke about how second nature his father’s music felt to him. Even the iconic “In the Air Tonight” drum break came naturally—though he admitted to feeling nervous performing it live at the U.S. Open.
His seamless transition into the family tradition of music shows a blend of inherited talent and modern polish. Watching Nic on stage gives fans a glimpse of Phil’s legacy being carried forward, not just through records, but through live performances that connect generations.
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Matthew Collins
Matthew Collins, born around 2006, is the youngest of Phil Collins’ five children and the second son from his marriage to Orianne Cevey. Unlike his siblings, Matthew has stayed largely out of the public eye. That said, he has appeared alongside his father at public events and has been seen enjoying NBA games with him.
Though not in entertainment, Matthew’s talents have not gone unnoticed. According to his half-brother Simon, he’s an “amazing footballer”—using the British term for soccer. Whether or not he pursues a professional path in the sport remains to be seen, but his athletic interests offer a different kind of spotlight from his family’s musical fame.
Family dynamics can be complicated, especially in a blended household, but Simon has emphasized that all five siblings maintain a close bond. “There’s no sibling rivalry,” he said. Despite different mothers and life paths, the Collins children appear united by mutual respect and support.
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