**Jaclyn Smith Reflects on Family, Career, and Grandmotherhood in New Memoir**
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In a recent discussion at 92NY, actress and designer Jaclyn Smith shared heartfelt insights about her life and career, particularly reflecting on her time as a leading star in the iconic television series *Charlie’s Angels*. The conversation took place on September 9, 2026, and was moderated by writer Ada Calhoun. Smith, now 80, took the opportunity to discuss her new memoir, *I Once Knew a Guy Named Charlie*, and described her family connections as a significant source of joy.
Smith, who is a devoted mother to her son Gaston and daughter Spencer, elaborated on the deep affection she holds for her three granddaughters. “They’re the joy of my life,” Smith declared, reflecting on the profound emotional connection she shares with them. Her admiration for the little ones is evident as she describes them as a source of unfettered happiness, adding that “I think my heart had to have an extra chamber because they’re amazing.”
Having welcomed her first child in March 1982, Smith shares Gaston, now 44, with her ex-husband Tony Richmond. Three years later, the family grew with the birth of her daughter Spencer, who is now 41. Both children have gone on to have families of their own, giving Smith the title of grandmother to Wren, aged 3, Olivia, 7, and Bea, 10.
In a 2017 interview with *PEOPLE*, she expressed the overwhelming love that comes with being a grandmother, saying, “The love that you have for your children, it’s like, ‘Oh my God.’ But this is even bigger — there are no words.” Her enthusiasm for the role of grandmother is palpable, asserting that she was “thrilled” to embrace this new chapter in her life.
Smith spoke fondly of her relationship with her granddaughters, revealing her eagerness to share her history with them. In a past interview, she expressed excitement about watching *Charlie’s Angels* with them, noting that her own children did not engage with her acting career in the same way. She reminisced about how her kids would simply acknowledge her presence on screen as “Jaclyn Smith” rather than “Mum”. This time, however, she hopes to provide a glimpse into her past, saying, “I’d like them to see how things change, and I think it’s important for them to see their history, to see where they came from.”
The actress’s reflection on *Charlie’s Angels* extends beyond mere nostalgia. She emphasised the programme’s themes of empowerment, stating that it revolved around “strong women” supporting one another and promoting emotional and financial independence. For Smith, the series not only showcased female strength but also highlighted the essential bonds of friendship.
While she aims to impart wisdom and lessons to her granddaughters as they grow, she also acknowledges the lessons they have taught her. “When you’re with them, nothing else matters,” Smith stated, emphasising the importance of living in the moment. She articulated a sense of clarity that comes with age, cherishing the simple joys that life presents, and adding that “you come to realise that these moments are treasures.”
Balancing her memories of motherhood with her experiences of being a grandmother, Smith noted the shift in perspective that time brings. “When you have your own children, you’re doing the nitty-gritty and you’re doing the homework,” she explained, reflecting on the rigorous demands of parenting. “But you get to a place in life where you realise that these moments are treasures, and that’s what it’s all about.”
Jaclyn Smith’s *I Once Knew a Guy Named Charlie* is not just a memoir of her time as a beloved actress; it is a testament to her enduring love for her family and the joy of grandmotherhood. The book is currently available in bookstores and has already begun to resonate with those eager to hear her remarkable stories and reflections.