Image credits: Wikimedia Commons
Jean Smart
September 13, 1951
Seattle, Washington, US
75 Years Old
Virgo
Who Is Jean Smart?
Jean Elizabeth Smart is an American actress, renowned for her exceptional versatility across both comedic and dramatic roles. Her nuanced performances consistently captivate audiences and critics alike.
Smart first gained widespread public attention with her breakout role as Charlene Frazier Stillfield on the popular CBS sitcom Designing Women. This role firmly established her as a prominent talent in television.
Early Life and Education
Jean Smart was born and raised in Seattle, Washington, the second of four children to Douglas Alexander Smart, a teacher, and Kathleen Marie Sanders. She cultivated an early passion for acting, participating actively in high school drama programs.
Smart furthered her education at the University of Washington, graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from its Professional Actor Training Program. Her theatrical beginnings included acclaimed work in regional theaters across the Pacific Northwest.
Notable Relationships
Jean Smart was married to actor Richard Gilliland for 34 years, after they met on the set of Designing Women. Their enduring partnership lasted until his passing in March 2021.
Smart shares two children with Gilliland: son Connor Douglas Gilliland, born in 1989, and Forrest Gilliland, adopted from China in 2009. She continues to navigate single motherhood with dedication.
Career Highlights
Jean Smart initially rose to prominence as Charlene Frazier Stillfield on the CBS sitcom Designing Women, earning a loyal following from 1986 to 1991. Her early work in television cemented her status as a versatile comedic talent.
More recently, Smart has achieved widespread critical acclaim for her leading role as Deborah Vance in the HBO Max comedy series Hacks, for which she has collected four Primetime Emmy Awards. This late-career resurgence also includes celebrated performances in Fargo and Watchmen.
Signature Quote
“I think I would say to Deborah, never ever think that what you've decided is an absolute. There are a lot fewer absolutes in life than you think. And just always, always, always be open to change.”