Jaclyn Smith, renowned for her role as Kelly Garrett in the beloved television series “Charlie’s Angels,” has opened up about her most cherished acting project, revealing that it was not from the iconic series that her greatest satisfaction stems. During a recent event in New York City, Smith shared insights about her career, particularly highlighting her role as Jacqueline Kennedy in the 1981 biopic “Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy.” At the age of 80, the actress reflected on this defining portrayal and the challenges she faced in bringing the former First Lady to life.
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At an event hosted by the 92NY alongside writer Ada Calhoun on September 9, Smith expressed her admiration for Kennedy, stating, “I had admired her, and I love history, and she was familiar pictorially, but we didn’t get to hear her talk that much at that time.” Smith noted that during the era when Kennedy was in the public eye, First Ladies did not receive the same level of attention as they do today. This lack of familiarity made the role all the more daunting for Smith as she grappled with the responsibility of depicting such a well-known figure.
Initially excited about landing the role, the actress later found herself overwhelmed by the prospect. “When I took on the role, at first, I wanted it, but then when I got it I thought, ‘How am I going to do this? This is crazy,’” she admitted, reflecting on the weight of portraying an iconic person. Despite the nerves, she embraced the challenge, immersing herself in the character through meticulous preparation, including wearing Kennedy’s signature pillbox hat and A-line skirt.
Smith described the physical transformation she undertook to embody Kennedy’s essence, recalling how she parted her hair on the side and embraced a naturally frizzy style. These efforts, she believes, contributed significantly to her successful audition, as she possessed the ability to portray both a youthful and older version of the former First Lady. To further enhance her performance, Smith sought the expertise of dialect coach Robert Easton to modify her Texas accent, particularly focusing on softening her pronunciation of ‘Rs.’
The film chronicles Kennedy’s life from her early years through her marriage to John F. Kennedy, culminating in the heart-wrenching aftermath of his assassination in Dallas in 1963. Smith expressed her admiration for a specific monologue from the film, drawn from Theodore White’s “In Search of History.” She remarked, “It was an honour to play her,” underlining the significance of the role in her life and career.
Smith’s portrayal of Kennedy earned her a Golden Globe nomination, marking a high point in a career replete with notable performances. In addition to her work on “Charlie’s Angels,” she reflected on other significant roles, including her time in “The Bourne Identity,” and projects such as “Rage of Angels” and “Florence Nightingale.”
In discussing “Rage of Angels,” Smith revealed how personal milestones intersected with her professional life at the time, stating it marked a high point as she had just become a mother. “That’s the highlight of everything in the world, and I didn’t think I would have that,” she shared, referring to her experience in New York City while raising her son, Gaston.
Throughout her career, Smith has remained a versatile actress, transitioning seamlessly between television and film while carving out a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry. Her reflections highlight not only a passion for her craft but also the profound impact that significant roles can have on an actor’s personal journey.
As Smith continues to share her stories and insights, her appreciation for the roles that have defined her career offers a glimpse into the dedication and hard work that have propelled her to fame. It serves as a reminder of the importance of storytelling, whether through biographical portrayals or enduring television characters. With an illustrious career spanning decades, Jaclyn Smith remains a beloved figure in the industry and a testament to the art of acting.