What Happened to Jaclyn Smith?
Jaclyn Smith is an American actress and businesswoman best known for her iconic role as Kelly Garrett in the television series "Charlie's Angels" (1976β1981). She pioneered celebrity branding with her successful apparel and home goods lines, initially with Kmart and now with HSN, and continues to be active in both her design empire and public appearances, including celebrating the 50th anniversary of "Charlie's Angels" in 2026.
Quick Answer
Jaclyn Smith, now 80 years old as of March 2026, remains a prominent figure in entertainment and business. She continues to oversee her successful design collections, which transitioned from Kmart to HSN, and makes public appearances. Most recently, she participated in events celebrating the 50th anniversary of "Charlie's Angels" in early 2026 and actively supports the Farrah Fawcett Foundation. She is happily married to cardiothoracic surgeon Brad Allen and cherishes her role as a grandmother.
πKey Facts
π Complete Timeline16 events
Born in Houston, Texas
Jacquelyn Ellen Smith was born in Houston, Texas.
Began acting career
Smith began her career in minor acting roles.
Became a 'Breck Girl'
She landed a job as a 'Breck girl' for Breck Shampoo, a prominent modeling role.
Cast as Kelly Garrett in 'Charlie's Angels'
Smith was cast in the pilot movie for 'Charlie's Angels' and became one of the original three 'Angels', a role that brought her international fame.
'Charlie's Angels' concludes; Golden Globe nomination
The series 'Charlie's Angels' ended its run, and Smith received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Miniseries or TV Film for 'Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy'.
Launched Jaclyn Smith Collection at Kmart
Smith pioneered celebrity branding by launching her own line of women's apparel and accessories with Kmart, a venture that proved highly successful.
Received Hollywood Walk of Fame star; launched signature scent
Jaclyn Smith was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and launched her signature fragrance, 'Jaclyn Smith's California'.
Married Brad Allen
Smith married Houston cardiothoracic surgeon Brad Allen, her fourth and current husband.
Diagnosed with breast cancer; 'Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle' cameo
She was treated for breast cancer and made a cameo appearance in the film 'Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle'.
Hosted 'Shear Genius'
Smith became the celebrity host of Bravo's competitive reality series 'Shear Genius' for its first two seasons.
Cameo in 'Charlie's Angels' film
She reprised her role as Kelly Garrett for a cameo appearance in the 2019 'Charlie's Angels' film.
Relaunched collection at HSN
Smith relaunched her successful design collection, transitioning from Kmart to HSN.
Shared insights on her marriage
In an Instagram Q&A, Smith and her husband Brad Allen shared advice and insights into their long and happy marriage.
Honored Farrah Fawcett with shared sculpture
Smith shared a video showcasing a handmade bust sculpture gifted to her by her late friend and 'Charlie's Angels' co-star, Farrah Fawcett.
Confirmed 'Charlie's Angels' 50th anniversary reunion
It was confirmed that Jaclyn Smith, Kate Jackson, and Cheryl Ladd would reunite at Paleyfest LA on April 6, 2026, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of 'Charlie's Angels'.
Celebrated 'Charlie's Angels' 50th anniversary and supported Farrah Fawcett Foundation
Smith celebrated the 50th anniversary of the 'Charlie's Angels' pilot and attended a benefit for the Farrah Fawcett Foundation, looking 'ageless' at 80.
πDeep Dive Analysis
Jaclyn Smith's journey from a Houston-born dancer to a global icon began with modeling, notably as a 'Breck Girl' in the early 1970s. Her career truly skyrocketed in 1976 when she was cast as Kelly Garrett in the groundbreaking television series "Charlie's Angels." She was the only original 'Angel' to remain with the show for its entire five-season run, solidifying her place in pop culture history. Following the show's conclusion in 1981, Smith continued her acting career, earning a Golden Globe nomination for her portrayal of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy in the highly-rated 1981 TV film.
A significant turning point in Smith's career came in 1985 when she launched her own line of women's apparel and accessories with Kmart. This venture was groundbreaking, as she was one of the first celebrities to develop and market her own brand rather than merely endorsing products. Despite initial skepticism, the 'Jaclyn Smith Collection' became a massive success, selling over $100 million worth of products and expanding into home decor, bedding, and even outdoor furniture. Her hands-on approach to design, focusing on quality fabrics and elegant simplicity, was credited with elevating budget fashion.
In her personal life, Smith has been married four times, finding lasting happiness with cardiothoracic surgeon Brad Allen, whom she married in 1997. She is a mother of two children, Gaston and Spencer Margaret, and a proud grandmother. In 2003, Smith faced a personal challenge when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, undergoing treatment and later becoming an advocate for breast cancer awareness, notably appearing in the 2010 documentary "1 a Minute." She also reprised her role as Kelly Garrett with cameo appearances in the "Charlie's Angels" films in 2003 and 2019.
As of March 25, 2026, Jaclyn Smith, at 80 years old, remains active and engaged. Her design collection has transitioned to HSN, where she continues to share her fashion and home decor lines. She frequently shares glimpses of her life, family, and healthy lifestyle on social media, often receiving praise for her ageless appearance. In January 2026, she shared a cherished sculpture made by her late friend Farrah Fawcett, highlighting their enduring bond. Most notably, 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of "Charlie's Angels," and Smith, alongside co-stars Kate Jackson and Cheryl Ladd, confirmed a reunion to honor the series at Paleyfest LA in April 2026. She also continues to support the Farrah Fawcett Foundation, attending events in early 2026 to raise funds for cancer research.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Jaclyn Smith made different choices?