How does a drummer address his daughters? With a “hi” and a “hello,” of course! Jokes aside, legendary musician Phil Collins, best known for his time with Genesis and his successful solo career, has a legacy extending beyond music—his family. Let’s meet the five Collins kids, listed from oldest to youngest:
1. Joely Collins (Born August 8, 1972)
Joely Collins at an event in 2014.
Joely Collins, a successful actress and producer, is Phil’s eldest daughter. Adopted by Phil and his first wife, Andrea Bertorelli, Joely established StoryLab Productions in 2009, producing films like “Becoming Redwood.”
A driving force behind Phil’s return to music after his 2011 retirement, Joely encouraged her father to continue pursuing his passion. She once shared, “To stop doing what you’ve done all your life, you’re taking away something that makes you tick.” This resonated with Phil, who realized the joy performing brought him and his fans.
Joely, a proud mother herself, is married and has a daughter named Zoë Amelie.
2. Simon Collins (Born September 14, 1976)
Simon Collins posing for a picture.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Simon Collins, Phil’s first biological child with Andrea Bertorelli, is also a musician. Raised in Vancouver by his mother and Joely after his parents’ divorce, Simon’s passion for music emerged early.
A drummer from the young age of eight, Simon even toured with his dad during the “Seriously, Live! World Tour,” joining him on stage for “Easy Lover” at just twelve years old. His early exposure to progressive rock during his childhood tours with Genesis solidified his musical aspirations.
Despite geographical distance, the Collins family remains close-knit. Simon, in an interview for Phil’s 70th birthday, shared, “Everyone in the family lives in different parts of the world…we’re all still in touch – we keep in touch via Zoom.”
3. Lily Collins (Born March 18, 1989)
Lily Collins smiling at a red carpet event.
Lily Collins, Phil’s daughter with his second wife, Jill Tavelman, has carved her own path in Hollywood. A globally recognized actress, Lily’s talent shines bright.
Despite a love for singing, Lily pursued acting, building an impressive career with roles in films like “The Blind Side,” “Mirror Mirror,” and “To The Bone,” the latter earning her a Golden Globe nomination. Determined to forge her own identity, Lily shared, “It was out of the question that people would think that I use a free pass thanks to my name. I’m proud of my dad, but I wanted to be me, not just his daughter.”
Lily is married to Charlie McDowell, son of actor Malcolm McDowell and actress Mary Steenburgen.
4. Nicholas Collins (Born April 21, 2001)
Nic Collins with his parents, Phil Collins and Orianne Cevey.
Nicholas, or Nic, is the first child of Phil and his third wife, Orianne Cevey. Sharing his father’s passion for music, Nic is a talented drummer who stepped in to perform with his dad’s band when health issues arose.
Phil, immensely proud of his son’s talent, clarified, “It’s not because he’s the boss’ son that he’s playing the drums, it’s because he’s good enough.” Nic’s skills earned him the band’s respect and admiration. The “Not Dead Yet Tour” from 2017 to 2019 saw Nic showcasing his musical prowess, even joining his father for a heartfelt duet of “You Know What I Mean.”
Currently, Nic plays in his own band, The Effect, solidifying his place in the music world.
5. Matthew Collins (Born December 1, 2004)
Matthew Collins in a soccer uniform.
Matthew, the second child of Phil and Orianne, has chosen a path away from the spotlight. A promising footballer, Matthew’s talent caught the attention of Austrian football team WSG Tirol, who signed him based solely on his skills, unaware of his famous father.
Despite his young age, Matthew has been seen with his father at public events and remains close to both parents.
Phil Collins’ children represent a diverse and talented group, each carving their own path. While some inherited their father’s musical inclinations, others pursued different passions. Despite their chosen fields, one thing remains constant—the strong bond within the Collins family.
