• The Informer Post
  • Posts
  • Inside Jean Smart’s Marriage: A Heartfelt Tribute to Husband Richard Gilliland

Inside Jean Smart’s Marriage: A Heartfelt Tribute to Husband Richard Gilliland

September 29, 2024

Who Was Jean Smart’s Husband?

Jean Smart, an Emmy award-winning actress known for her roles in Designing Women and Hacks, was married to Richard Gilliland, a talented actor in his own right. Gilliland was best known for his roles in Designing Women, Thirtysomething, and Operation Petticoat. The couple’s marriage, which lasted nearly 34 years, was marked by love, mutual respect, and their shared passion for acting.

Gilliland was born on January 23, 1950, in Fort Worth, Texas, and had a thriving career in Hollywood, often appearing in television series during the 70s and 80s. However, it wasn’t just his acting talents that brought him into the spotlight; his enduring relationship with Jean Smart became one of Hollywood’s most admired marriages.

How Did Jean Smart and Richard Gilliland Meet?

Jean Smart and Richard Gilliland first met on the set of the hit show Designing Women in 1986. At the time, Gilliland was playing the role of J.D. Shackelford, the love interest of Mary Jo Shively, played by Annie Potts. Smart was cast as Charlene Frazier Stillfield. Their on-screen roles, however, didn’t align romantically, but it was behind the scenes where the sparks truly flew. Jean Smart humorously recalls their meeting as one filled with flirtation and fondness. After dating for a short period, the couple married in 1987.

Their marriage was a testament to their shared dedication to their craft and each other. They often worked together, both on and off-screen, making their partnership one that stood the test of time. While Smart’s career surged with iconic roles, Gilliland’s steady presence was always by her side.

The Legacy of Jean Smart and Richard Gilliland’s Children

Smart and Gilliland were also proud parents. The couple had two children together. Their son, Connor Douglas Gilliland, was born in 1989. In 2009, they adopted their daughter, Bonnie Kathleen Gilliland, from China. Jean Smart has spoken in interviews about the joys and challenges of parenting, often emphasizing how much love and support her family gave her during both the highs and lows of her career.

As a mother, Smart prioritized her family’s well-being and managed to balance her demanding acting schedule with raising her children. The family’s close-knit nature was a central part of Smart’s life, even more so after Gilliland’s unexpected passing.

Richard Gilliland’s Role in *Designing Women*

Gilliland’s role in Designing Women was a crucial part of his career, though his talents stretched far beyond that. He appeared in various other television series, showcasing his versatility as an actor. His role as J.D. Shackelford in Designing Women brought him into the public eye, but it was also the moment he met the love of his life.

Despite being surrounded by Hollywood’s glitz and glamor, Gilliland remained humble and dedicated to his craft. His approach to acting and the genuine connection he made with his colleagues are fondly remembered by those who worked with him. His role in Designing Women became not just a professional milestone but a personal one, as it led him to his lifelong partner, Jean Smart.

Jean Smart and Richard Gilliland: A Hollywood Love Story

Throughout their marriage, Jean Smart and Richard Gilliland became one of Hollywood’s quiet but strong couples. Unlike many celebrity marriages, their relationship avoided public scrutiny, focusing instead on their family and careers. They shared a deep respect for each other’s work, often collaborating on projects and supporting one another’s artistic endeavors.

Smart has mentioned in interviews that Gilliland was not only a wonderful husband and father but also an extraordinary actor. She often admired his work and his commitment to their family. They shared many memorable moments together on screen and off, making their love story a rare gem in the entertainment industry.

What Happened to Jean Smart’s Husband?

In March 2021, Richard Gilliland passed away unexpectedly at the age of 71 after a brief illness. His death was a devastating loss for Jean Smart and their children, as well as the broader entertainment community. Smart was in the middle of filming the first season of Hacks when Gilliland passed away, making the time even more challenging for her personally and professionally.

In interviews after his death, Smart expressed the profound grief she experienced losing her husband. Despite the heartache, she channeled her emotions into her work, which contributed to the critically acclaimed success of Hacks. Her resilience and dedication during such a difficult time became a source of inspiration for many.

How Old Was Jean Smart’s Husband?

At the time of his death, Richard Gilliland was 71 years old. Though his passing was a tragic and untimely event, his legacy lives on through his work and the love he shared with Jean Smart and their family. Jean has been open about how difficult it has been to navigate life without her husband, but she finds comfort in the memories they created over their 34-year marriage.

Remembering Richard Gilliland

Richard Gilliland’s legacy in Hollywood is marked not only by his diverse acting roles but also by the love and respect he garnered from those who knew him. He was a consummate professional, admired for his versatility and dedication to his craft. But perhaps most importantly, he was a beloved husband and father.

For Jean Smart, the loss of her husband has been a deeply personal journey, one filled with immense love, grief, and ultimately, resilience. As she continues to thrive in her career, she carries the memory of Richard Gilliland with her, honoring their time together both on-screen and off.

  • Learn more about Richard Gilliland’s career

  • Explore Jean Smart’s award-winning performances

  • Read about other enduring Hollywood couples

Through her continued success and the love of her family, Jean Smart remains a cherished figure in Hollywood.