In the 1970s, Jaclyn Smith took the world by storm as one of the original stars of the iconic television series Charlie’s Angels. Over the ensuing years, the Houston native diversified her career, becoming not only a successful actress but a determined businesswoman and inspirational figure for countless individuals.
Though it’s been decades since she graced our screens as Kelly Garrett, the character that captivated audiences worldwide, Jaclyn remains a fascinating and admirable figure at 76.
Today, Jaclyn enjoys a rich personal life, surrounded by her beloved children and grandchildren. Here’s a glimpse into her journey and current life.
The Early Days of Jaclyn Smith
Jaclyn Smith, born Jacquelyn Ellen Smith on October 26, 1945, in Houston, Texas, pursued her dreams from a young age. At just three years old, she donned her first pair of dancing shoes, aspiring to become a professional ballerina.
Family has always been Jaclyn’s bedrock, a value deeply rooted in her upbringing. Reflecting on her childhood, she shared, “Growing up in Houston, home was always a happy refuge for me, and the values my parents instilled in me, although I may not have known it at the time, would help me define myself later in life. Family was and continues to be the foundation for all my happiness and success.”
After completing high school, Jaclyn pursued drama at Trinity University. She soon found herself performing in notable productions such as West Side Story and Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, carving a path to her first love, the stage.
Despite her stage successes, Jaclyn still yearned to dance, and in 1973, she got her television break as a shampoo model for Breck. Her recognizable face became known throughout the country.
This initial role paved the way for collaboration with Max Factor, leading to her signature fragrance line, Jaclyn Smith’s California, launched in 1989.
Soaring Career Ventures
Prior to introducing her signature scent, Jaclyn embarked on varied endeavors. After college, she made the pivotal decision to move to New York City, a bold move that expanded her horizons significantly. “It was there, a thousand miles away from home, that I was lucky enough to try a lot of different experiences, meet many wonderful people, learn my craft, hone my skills and really be open to finding a path that was right for me,” she explained.
Jaclyn made appearances in various TV series and films during the early 1970s, including Switch and McCloud. She became known as the “Queen of Mini-Series”, but her life-changing break came in 1976 with the role of Kelly Garrett in Charlie’s Angels.
Despite feeling uncertain about her casting audition, Jaclyn landed the iconic role.
Embracing the Role of Kelly Garrett
Jaclyn wasn’t feeling optimistic after her audition, saying, “I just know it wasn’t my best moment. So I just got it out of my mind. I didn’t even think there was a chance for me to get Charlie’s Angels.” Yet, the chemistry she shared on screen with co-stars Farrah Fawcett-Majors and Kate Jackson ultimately secured her the role.
The show premiered in 1976, quickly garnering widespread acclaim. The crime-solving adventures of Kelly Garrett, Sabrina Duncan, and Jill Munroe captivated audiences, earning a spot among the top-viewed TV series and multiple award nominations over its five-season run.
Though controversial for its time with daring wardrobe choices, Jaclyn viewed Charlie’s Angels as empowering rather than objectifying: “The feminists didn’t like us because they said we were Barbie dolls prancing around. We wore pretty things, but we didn’t flaunt our sexuality. It wasn’t salacious,” she stated.
Expanding Horizons with New Ventures
Earning $5,000 per episode at the show’s beginning, Jaclyn’s salary grew significantly, reflecting her rising fame. She also engaged in merchandising opportunities, designing everything from lunch kits to hair accessories associated with the Angels.
Continuing her television journey, Jaclyn captivated audiences with roles such as the First Lady in Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy in 1981, earning a Golden Globe nomination. She also attained recognition from her leading roles in mini-series like Rage of Angels, George Washington, The Bourne Identity, and Family Album.
Beyond Acting
Jaclyn further demonstrated her entrepreneurial spirit by launching her line of apparel and accessories at Kmart, achieving tremendous success. Her genuine connection with audiences solidified her icon status, influencing countless women both within entertainment circles and beyond.
In 1981, Jaclyn married cinematographer Anthony B. Richmond, with whom she had two children: Gaston Richmond and Spencer Margaret Richmond. Though her marriage to Richmond ended in 1989, Jaclyn established a new life for herself and her children in Los Angeles.
Her love for old homes led Jaclyn to a Georgian Colonial mansion in the affluent Holmby Hills neighborhood, known for its notable residents. Her connection to this historic setting is a source of joy and inspiration.
Life at Home
The spread features a tennis court and an inviting pool area, providing leisure spaces for her family. Jaclyn, enthusiastic about home renovations, updated the mansion to accommodate her aesthetic and practical needs seamlessly.
In partnership with her husband, heart surgeon Dr. Brad Allen, Jaclyn enjoys life at their rejuvenated sanctuary. Her garden, a testament to her green thumb, includes charming features like a dollhouse enjoyed by her grandchildren.
Family Above All
At 76, Jaclyn cherishes her role as both a mother and a grandmother. Her family bonds have been her guiding light, reinforcing the values imbued by her parents and grandparents.
Jaclyn relishes watching her family grow, exuding gratitude, and happiness through social media posts, often highlighting treasured family moments with her grandchildren, Bea and Olivia Rose.
Describing family as the “rhyme and reason of everything,” Jaclyn’s life is a magnificent tapestry of kinship and heritage. She looks forward to sharing her past adventures with her grandchildren, giving them a glance into her storied history.
Preserving Her Legacy
In 2003, Jaclyn beat an early-stage breast cancer diagnosis with grace and resilience. Her journey through treatment and recovery further fueled her commitment to raising awareness for causes dear to her heart.
Jaclyn remains active with foundations such as The Breast Cancer Research Foundation and the American Heart Association, leveraging her experience to counsel others facing similar battles.
Speaking about her journey, she emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with love and educating oneself thoroughly through reliable, professional guidance.
Jaclyn Smith has crafted a remarkable legacy, embraced her roles as mother, grandmother, and advocate, granting inspirational insights to audiences both past and present.
If you cherish the enduring charm and strength of Jaclyn Smith, share her delightful story with friends and family!