From Birmingham Roots to National Fame

The 1980s were a decade unlike any other — a time of electric fashion, big hair, unapologetic glamour, and cultural icons who seemed to leap straight from the glossy pages of magazines into the hearts of millions. Among those icons was Sharon Axley, known to the world as Janine Andrews. With her golden hair, captivating smile, and effortless charm, she became one of the most recognizable faces of the Page 3 era, leaving a lasting mark on British pop culture.

From Birmingham Roots to National Fame

Born in Stechford, Birmingham, Janine’s journey to stardom began far from the glitzy world she would one day inhabit. Her story started with a single photoshoot for the Sunday Mercury, an opportunity that sparked something bigger than anyone could have predicted. That small feature was enough to catch the attention of talent scouts, and by 1978, Janine had made her debut as a Page 3 model in The Sun.

Her appeal went beyond classic beauty. She brought personality to every shoot — the kind of warmth and relatability that could make readers feel like she was smiling just for them. Her Brummie accent, her easy laughter, and her natural confidence created a persona that was glamorous yet grounded, something rare in an industry that often felt untouchable.

Video : JANINE ANDREWS – singer, writer, actress & model interview 12/20/20 w/REV DEREK MOODY & SISTER TRACY

From Newspaper Pages to the Big Screen

Janine’s ambitions stretched far beyond modeling. In 1983, she landed a role in the James Bond film Octopussy, an opportunity that would solidify her as a pop culture icon of the decade. Becoming a Bond girl wasn’t just another job — it was an invitation to join a legacy of women who represented sophistication, allure, and international recognition.

Stepping onto a film set was a completely different world from the photo studios she knew so well. There were scripts to learn, cameras rolling for hours, and the thrill of working alongside established stars like Roger Moore. Janine navigated this transition with ease, proving she had more to offer than just a photogenic face. Her creative spirit led her to try new avenues as well, and in 1988 she joined the pop group Big Bang, showing she wasn’t afraid to take risks or reinvent herself.

Headlines, Romance, and the Public Eye

Life in the public eye meant that Janine’s personal relationships often made as many headlines as her career moves. She famously dated John Taylor of Duran Duran during the height of the band’s fame, a pairing that brought together two glamorous worlds — the music scene and the modeling industry. Later, she married Pat McGlynn, a former member of the Bay City Rollers, adding another layer of celebrity intrigue to her life.

While these romances added to her star power, they also revealed something more human about Janine. She was open, approachable, and genuine with her fans, often responding to letters and well wishes. At one point, after a public health scare, she received countless get-well cards from supporters who had followed her career for years. That connection between star and audience was part of what kept her in the hearts of so many.

Fighting Life’s Toughest Battles

Behind the glamorous images and red carpet appearances, Janine faced struggles that would test even the strongest spirits. She battled breast cancer, undergoing a mastectomy, only to later face ovarian cancer. Treatment meant enduring difficult rounds of chemotherapy and losing her signature blonde hair, a moment she described as one of the most painful parts of her journey.

Yet, through it all, Janine’s resilience never wavered. She often spoke about how her earlier cancer diagnosis had saved her life by leading to the early detection of the second. Her perspective was deeply inspiring — she refused to be bitter, choosing instead to see the silver linings in the most difficult circumstances. By 2016, she was celebrating the simple joy of her hair growing back, a small victory that represented so much more than appearance.

Video : PAT McGLYNN & JANINE ANDREWS “Baby Stay One More Day” unreleased track 2021

A New Life in Edinburgh

Today, Janine lives in Edinburgh with her husband, Pat McGlynn, and their teenage daughter. Her life now is quieter, far removed from the constant flash of cameras, yet it’s full of purpose. She still attends regular checkups, keeps a positive outlook, and supports cancer awareness campaigns.

While she no longer graces magazine covers, her legacy remains intact. Fans still remember the impact she made in the 1980s, both for her beauty and her personality. She looks back on her life with gratitude, calling herself “lucky” despite the battles she has fought. That outlook is part of what continues to make her an inspiration today.

The Enduring Legacy of a Page 3 Legend

Janine Andrews — or Sharon Axley — represents more than just an era of glamour modeling. She embodies the spirit of resilience, adaptability, and grace under pressure. Her journey from a Birmingham photoshoot to the pages of The Sun, from the sets of Bond films to the music stage, and finally to a life of quiet strength and advocacy, is a testament to her versatility and inner strength.

The 1980s were filled with beautiful faces, but few managed to combine glamour with genuine connection in the way Janine did. Her story shows that a true icon isn’t defined solely by their time in the spotlight — but by how they carry themselves when the lights dim, how they face challenges, and how they continue to inspire long after the era that made them famous.

Sharon Axley’s life is proof that beauty may catch attention, but courage, kindness, and authenticity are what make someone unforgettable. Even decades after her rise to fame, she remains a symbol of an era and a reminder of the power of resilience.