Jean Smart Bio, Age, Height, Husband, Movies, Net Worth

Jean Smart Biography

Who is Jean Smart?

Jean Elizabeth Smart (born September 13, 1951) is a celebrated American actress known for her wide-ranging television, film, and stage performances. Born in Seattle, Washington, she developed her love for acting during high school before graduating with a BFA in acting from the University of Washington.

Her early career began in regional theater, including performances at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. She gained national fame in the 1980s for her role as Charlene Frazier on Designing Women. This breakout role introduced her as a household name and launched her long television career.

Smart earned acclaim with appearances in Frasier, Samantha Who?, and her Emmy-winning role in Hacks, where she portrays comedian Deborah Vance. She also appeared in successful films such as Sweet Home Alabama, A Simple Favor, and Babylon. On Broadway, she made her debut in Piaf and later earned a Tony nomination for The Man Who Came to Dinner.

She married actor Richard Gilliland in 1987, and they had two sons. After his passing in 2021, she continued to work while raising her family. Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age thirteen, she has openly shared her journey.

Recently, Smart won multiple Emmy Awards for Hacks and returned to Broadway in 2025 with Call Me Izzy.

Jean Smart Age

How old is Jean Smart?

Jean Elizabeth Smart was born on September 13, 1951. As of today, she is 74 years old. Despite her age, she continues to perform lead roles in television, film, and theater. Her timeless talent and dedication keep her at the forefront of Hollywood.

Jean Smart Height

How tall is Jean Smart?

Jean Elizabeth Smart stands about 5 feet 9½ inches tall, which is roughly 176.5 centimetres. Her height gives her a statuesque presence, especially visible in TV interviews and red-carpet events.

Jean Smart: Movies and TV Shows

Jean has built a remarkable career through her diverse roles in both movies and television shows. She continues to impress audiences with her versatility and presence. Here are some of her most notable works:

• Hacks (2021–present)
• Mare of Easttown (2021)
• Watchmen (2019)
• Legion (2017–2019)
• Designing Women (1986–1991)
• Frasier (2000–2001)
• 24 (2006–2007)
• Dirty John (2018)
• Sweet Home Alabama (2002)
• Garden State (2004)
• The Accountant (2016)
• A Simple Favor (2018)
• Babylon (2022)

Jean Smart’s Husband

Who is Jean Smart’s Husband?

Jean Smart married fellow actor Richard Gilliland in June 1987. They met while working together on Designing Women. Gilliland played J.D. Shackelford on that sitcom, and their connection grew quickly.

The couple had two sons: Connor, born in 1989, and Forrest, adopted from China in 2009. Richard Gilliland built a successful career with roles in popular shows like 24 and The Unit.

Sadly, Gilliland passed away in March 2021 at the age of 71 after a brief illness. She later described raising their children alone as extremely difficult.

Jean Smart’s Children

Does Jean Smart have biological children?

Jean Smart shares two children with her late husband, Richard Gilliland. Her eldest son, Connor Gilliland, was born in October 1989 and has chosen to live a very private life away from the spotlight. In 2009, Jean and Richard adopted their younger child from China. He was originally named Bonnie Kathleen Gilliland, but he now goes by Forrest Gilliland. Unlike his brother, Forrest has occasionally joined Jean at red carpet events, proudly supporting her career. Following Richard’s passing in 2021, Jean has openly expressed how raising her sons alone has been deeply challenging.

Jean Smart: Emmy Awards and Major Accolades

Jean Smart has established herself as one of television’s most honored actresses with seven Primetime Emmy Awards and 14 nominations. She won Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series for Frasier in both 2000 and 2001. In 2008, she received Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her role in Samantha Who?. Her most celebrated success came with Hacks, earning her Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2021, 2022, 2024, and 2025. These accolades highlight Smart’s exceptional talent across comedy, supporting, and lead roles.

Jean Smart’s Hairstyles: Her Signature Looks and Latest Styles

Smart embraces her natural gray hair and wears it boldly. Recently, she stepped out with a gray pixie cut featuring a side part and soft curls. She blends darker roots with silvery tones, creating an elegant ombré effect. Meanwhile, at red carpet events like the Emmys, she sometimes styles her hair in vintage-inspired looks. For example, stylists craft pin curls and side parts to evoke a classic glamour vibe. Her styles highlight her confidence, natural beauty, and aging with grace.

Jean Smart and Kim Cattrall

Jean Smart and Kim Cattrall both shine as powerful, charismatic actresses in television and film. Smart earned fame through shows like Designing Women and Hacks, while Cattrall became iconic as Samantha Jones in Sex and the City. Furthermore, they sometimes confuse fans because both embrace strong, bold female characters. Also, each woman collected numerous awards: Smart has won multiple Emmys, whereas Cattrall won a Golden Globe for her Sex and the City role. However, their careers differ: Smart mixes comedy and drama broadly; Cattrall focused strongly on romantic comedy and cult favorite series.

Jean Smart on Saturday Night Live ( SNL)

Jean Smart hosted Saturday Night Live’s season 50 premiere on September 28, 2024. She opened with a monologue, including a song tribute to New York. In her episode, she appeared in sketches like “Textbook Writer,” “I Love Lucy,” and “Real Housewives of Santa Fe Dinner.” She also played a chimp lady and dodged fajitas in a parody of Real Housewives. Her performance received praise from cast member Chloe Fineman, who said Smart powered through despite feeling unwell during rehearsal. Fans noted her impressive range and strong comedic timing across characters and musical bits.

Jean Smart Net Worth

As of 2025, Jean has an estimated net worth of $12 million. She has built her wealth through a prolific career in television, film, and theater. Smart is best known for her roles in Designing Women, Frasier, Samantha Who?, and Hacks. Her recent Emmy wins for Hacks further highlight her continued success and demand in the entertainment industry.