Jaclyn Smith gained international recognition through her role as Kelly Garrett in the television series Charlie's Angels, which premiered in 1976. As the only lead performer to remain with the detective program for its entire five-season run, she became a prominent figure in 1970s pop culture, eventually earning a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Early Career and Training
Born in 1945 in Houston, Texas, Smith attended Lamar High School before enrolling at Trinity University. She later studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York. Her initial professional work included television commercials and modeling, notably as a spokesperson for Breck Shampoo and Wella Balsam. She made early, uncredited film appearances in Goodbye, Columbus and The Adventurers, followed by guest roles in television programs such as The Partridge Family and McCloud.
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In 1976, Smith was cast alongside Kate Jackson and Farrah Fawcett in the made-for-television film that launched the series Charlie's Angels. The show centered on three private investigators employed by the reclusive Charles Townsend. The production achieved high Nielsen ratings, leading to global syndication and extensive merchandise licensing. Smith portrayed Kelly Garrett until the series concluded in 1981 and later made cameo appearances in the 2003 and 2019 film adaptations.
Television and Film Projects
Following her success in Charlie's Angels, Smith transitioned into numerous television films and miniseries. She earned a Golden Globe nomination for her lead performance in the 1981 production Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, she starred in projects such as Rage of Angels, George Washington, The Bourne Identity, and various adaptations of novels by Danielle Steel. Her feature film credits include Nightkill and Déjà Vu.
Business and Later Career
Beyond acting, Smith established herself as a businessperson, launching her own brands of clothing and perfume during the 1980s. Her later acting work included a recurring role in the drama series The District between 2002 and 2004, as well as an appearance in two episodes of CSI: Crime Scene Investigation in 2012.
Fast facts
- Born: 1945, Houston, United States
- Education: Lamar High School, Trinity University, American Academy of Dramatic Arts
- Notable role: Kelly Garrett, Charlie's Angels
- Series run: 1976–1981
- Awards: Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Business interests: Clothing and perfume brands
- Languages: English
- Religion: Christianity
Questions readers ask
Was Jaclyn Smith in all seasons of Charlie's Angels?
Yes, she was the only original female lead to remain with the series for its entire five-season run.
What major award nomination did she receive for her TV work?
She was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Miniseries or TV Film for her role in Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy.
Achievements
- Educated at Trinity University and American Academy of Dramatic Arts
- Worked as actor, television actor and film actor
