A freestanding privacy screen comprises a plurality of like panels shaped to be positioned in a side-by-side relationship. Each panel includes a frame on which an insert panel can be mounted, and hollow side members or uprights. A pair of hinge rods are positioned in the hollow uprights of the frame for axial rotation therein, and have first key members positioned adjacent opposite ends thereof. Panel connectors interconnect adjacent panels in a mutually vertically aligned relationship. Each panel connector has a two-part body construction interconnected by a removable fastener to capture associated end portions of adjacent hinge rods therebetween. The connectors have second key members that mate with the first key members on the hinge rod ends which rotationally interconnect adjacent hinge rods, such that when the privacy screen panels are pivoted, the hinge rods retain adjacent panels in their vertically aligned relationship.