Jaclyn Smith, born on October 26, 1945, in Houston, Texas, initially dreamed of becoming a world-class ballerina. However, her path took a different turn after high school when she entered the world of modeling. Her big break came in 1973 when she became the face of Breck shampoo. But it was in 1976 that her life changed forever, as she stepped into the role of Kelly Garrett in Charlie’s Angels. The show premiered on ABC on September 22, 1976, and became an instant hit, catapulting Smith into the spotlight.
Jaclyn’s portrayal of Kelly Garrett made her a household name, and she gained the unique distinction of being the only original “Angel” to remain with the series throughout its entire five-season run, from 1976 to 1981. Her connection to the character didn’t end there, as she later reprised the role in a cameo for Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle (2003), bridging the gap between the classic show and a new generation of Angels.
After Charlie’s Angels, Jaclyn continued to shine in a variety of TV films and series, including a memorable performance in Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy (1981), which earned her a Golden Globe nomination. She also starred in popular miniseries like The Bourne Identity (1988) and Rage of Angels (1983). Beyond her acting career, Jaclyn expanded her influence by launching a successful clothing line with Kmart in 1985, which still thrives today. Her legacy, both on-screen and in business, remains an inspiration across generations.
Her personal life, much like her career, was full of twists and turns. After two marriages to actors Roger Davis and Dennis Cole, she found happiness with cinematographer Anthony B. Richmond, with whom she had two children before they parted ways in 1989. Her fourth marriage, however, to Dr. Brad Allen in 1997, proved to be the real deal. Together, they even launched a skincare line, combining beauty with brains—a perfect reflection of Jaclyn’s own journey.
From the glamorous world of Hollywood to the competitive realm of business, Jaclyn Smith has proven she’s not just an “angel” on-screen but a true force of nature in everything she touches.
