Jaclyn Smith is a name that many people recognize, especially those who grew up watching the iconic TV series Charlie’s Angels in the 1970s. Smith played Kelly Garrett, one of the three female detectives who worked for a mysterious boss named Charlie. She was the only original Angel to stay on the show for its entire run, and she also made cameo appearances in the movie adaptations in 2003 and 2019. But Smith is not just an actress; she is also a successful entrepreneur who has built a lucrative empire of clothing, perfume, and home products. Her net worth is estimated to be $150 million, making her one of the richest celebrities in the world. How did she achieve this remarkable feat? Here is a look at her career and business ventures.
From Ballet to Breck
Smith was born Jacquelyn Ellen Smith on October 26, 1945, in Houston, Texas. Her father was a dentist and her mother was a housewife. She had a passion for ballet since she was a child, and she attended the prestigious Balanchine School of American Ballet in New York after dropping out of college. However, she soon realized that her appearance was more suited for modeling and acting, and she started to find work in commercials and print ads. One of her first jobs was as a Breck shampoo model in 1971, along with another future star, Farrah Fawcett. She also landed some minor roles in movies such as Goodbye, Columbus (1969) and The Adventurers (1970).
The Angel Who Soared to Stardom
Smith’s big break came in 1976 when she was cast as Kelly Garrett in Charlie’s Angels, a show that followed the adventures of three beautiful women who worked as private investigators for a mysterious voice on the phone. The show was a huge hit, attracting millions of viewers and making Smith, Fawcett, and Kate Jackson household names. Smith was the only Angel who stayed on the show for all five seasons, from 1976 to 1981. She also earned a Golden Globe nomination for her portrayal of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy in a TV movie in 1981.
The Queen of TV Movies and Miniseries
After Charlie’s Angels ended, Smith continued to act in various TV movies and miniseries throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Some of her notable roles include Rage of Angels (1983), George Washington (1984), The Bourne Identity (1988), Kaleidoscope (1990), and Nightmare in the Daylight (1992). She also starred in her own detective series, Christine Cromwell, from 1989 to 1990. She received positive reviews for her performances and proved that she was more than just a pretty face.
The Pioneer of Celebrity Branding
Smith’s acting career was impressive, but her business savvy was even more remarkable. In 1985, she became the first celebrity to launch her own clothing line at Kmart, a discount retailer that was not known for fashion at the time. Smith’s line was affordable, stylish, and accessible to millions of women across America. She also expanded her brand to include perfume, accessories, home furnishings, and skincare products. Her partnership with Kmart lasted for over three decades and generated billions of dollars in sales. She also licensed her name to other companies such as Max Factor and Revlon.
The Philanthropist and Family Woman
Smith is not only a successful actress and entrepreneur; she is also a generous philanthropist and a devoted family woman. She has supported various causes such as breast cancer awareness, animal welfare, children’s education, and environmental protection. She has been married four times and has two children from her third marriage to cinematographer Anthony B. Richmond. Her current husband is Dr. Brad Allen, whom she married in 1997.
The Legacy of Jaclyn Smith
Jaclyn Smith is an inspiration to many people who admire her talent, beauty, intelligence, and grace. She has achieved fame and fortune through hard work, dedication, and innovation. She has also maintained her dignity and integrity throughout her career and personal life. She is a true legend who has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and the business world.