Jaclyn Smith, a beloved figure of the 1970s, emerged as a prominent television star through her iconic role in the hit series Charlie’s Angels. Born in Houston, Texas, she became a symbol of strength, beauty, and grace, both on and off the screen. Over time, she has transcended her role as Kelly Garrett, turning into a successful entrepreneur and a role model to many, all while maintaining an unwavering commitment to her family and philanthropic causes.
From a very early age, Jaclyn was drawn to the arts, particularly ballet. Her dream of becoming a professional dancer began when she was just three years old, and her passion for performing would eventually lead her down the path of acting. Family was central to her life, a value instilled in her during her upbringing in Houston, and it continued to shape her throughout her journey.
After completing her education, Jaclyn’s ambition and talent took her to New York, where she explored various artistic opportunities. Her work in commercials, along with her acting skills, led her to broader roles in television and film. In 1973, she gained visibility as a shampoo model for Breck, and her popularity soared. But it was her portrayal of Kelly Garrett in Charlie’s Angels that truly cemented her place in Hollywood history. The show, which began airing in 1976, quickly became a cultural phenomenon. As Kelly Garrett, Jaclyn was part of a trio of crime-fighting women, alongside Sabrina Duncan and Jill Munroe, who became household names.
Although Charlie’s Angels initially faced some criticism for its depiction of women, Jaclyn viewed her role with pride. She felt that the show’s portrayal of strong, independent women resonated with many, despite objections from certain feminist groups who saw it as superficial. For Jaclyn, her role wasn’t about flaunting sexuality but about showing capable women succeeding in a male-dominated world. Her performances contributed to the show’s success, and by the end of its five-season run, she had become a television icon, earning a significant salary and engaging in the merchandising efforts that made the show a major franchise.
Following Charlie’s Angels, Jaclyn’s career flourished. She starred in several mini-series, earning the title “Queen of Mini-Series” for her work in highly acclaimed productions like Rage of Angels and The Bourne Identity. Her portrayal of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy in the television film Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy was another career milestone, earning her widespread recognition and a Golden Globe nomination. Through these roles, Jaclyn demonstrated her versatility and continued to captivate audiences.
Yet, Jaclyn’s success was not limited to her acting career. She ventured into the world of fashion and business, launching her own clothing line at Kmart, which proved to be a major success. Her entrepreneurial spirit expanded her influence beyond the entertainment industry, making her a role model for women who aspired to excel in multiple fields. She also became known for her involvement in the fragrance industry, launching her signature scent, Jaclyn Smith’s California, in 1989.
In her personal life, Jaclyn faced both triumphs and challenges. She married cinematographer Anthony B. Richmond in 1981, with whom she had two children, Gaston and Spencer. Despite their eventual divorce in 1989, Jaclyn remained committed to providing a stable and loving home for her children. She moved to Los Angeles and bought a beautiful Georgian Colonial mansion, where she raised her family. Her love for old homes, combined with her desire to create a comfortable space for her children, reflected her dedication to family life.
Jaclyn’s home became a sanctuary not only for her children but also for her grandchildren. In recent years, Jaclyn has embraced her role as a grandmother, which she describes as one of the greatest joys of her life. Her grandchildren, Bea and Olivia Rose, often visit her, and Jaclyn takes great pleasure in spending time with them. Whether hosting tea parties in the garden or indulging them with candy from her secret drawer, Jaclyn cherishes these moments with her family.
Even as she enjoys her time with her family, Jaclyn has not forgotten the legacy of Charlie’s Angels. She hopes to share the show with her grandchildren one day, giving them a glimpse into her past and the role that made her famous. Although the series may have concluded long ago, Jaclyn’s connection to it remains strong. She reprised her role as Kelly Garrett in a brief appearance in the 2003 film Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle, and she remains proud of her association with the groundbreaking series.
In addition to her entertainment career and entrepreneurial ventures, Jaclyn is a passionate philanthropist. She has been involved with numerous charitable organizations, including The Breast Cancer Research Foundation and The John Wayne Cancer Institute. Her commitment to these causes deepened after her own battle with breast cancer in 2003. Diagnosed at stage 1, Jaclyn underwent surgery and radiation therapy, emerging victorious from the ordeal. Her experience has made her a strong advocate for cancer awareness and research, and she has used her platform to support others going through similar struggles.
View this post on Instagram
Today, at 76 years old, Jaclyn continues to lead a fulfilling life. Her family remains her greatest source of happiness, and she credits them with keeping her grounded and young at heart. As a proud mother, grandmother, and wife to heart surgeon Dr. Brad Allen, whom she married in 1997, Jaclyn finds joy in the simple pleasures of life. Whether tending to her garden, working on her business ventures, or spending time with her loved ones, she embraces every moment.
View this post on Instagram
Jaclyn’s story is one of resilience, grace, and perseverance. From her early dreams of becoming a dancer to her rise as a television star and successful entrepreneur, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to her craft and her family. Her legacy, both in Hollywood and beyond, continues to inspire generations of women who admire her strength, talent, and unwavering dedication to those she loves. As Jaclyn Smith reflects on her life and career, she does so with a sense of gratitude and fulfillment, knowing that she has made a lasting impact on the world.