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Jean Smart: A Journey of Resilience and Health Awareness
Jean Smart is set to make a significant impact at this year’s Golden Globes, where the star of “Hacks” is nominated for Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy. Having already garnered an Emmy for her role as the standup comedy diva Deborah Vance, Smart’s career continues to thrive. However, the past few years have presented their share of challenges for the 73-year-old actress, marked by personal and health struggles.
Smart underwent heart surgery in 2023, a decision that was influenced by the sudden passing of her husband, Richard Gilliland, in 2021 due to a heart condition. In a poignant reflection on her changing health priorities, she noted, “It just made more sense for me to get smarter about my health decisions.” She emphasized the added responsibility she now feels as a single parent: “I’m the one running the show now, completely on my own, and if something happens to me, what happens to my kids?”
In a recent Instagram post, Smart shared her experience of recovery from heart surgery and an appendectomy, stating, “February is American Heart Month—a time when the nation spotlights heart health… I am fortunate to have excellent professional care and support from family and friends while I continue to recuperate.”
Despite the health challenges, which paused production on the third season of “Hacks” for ten weeks, Smart’s commitment to her work has remained strong. The actress candidly expressed feelings of guilt for delaying the production, highlighting her dedication to the team and the series. Fortunately, after the resolution of the writers’ strike, the show resumed production and soon concluded.
In addition to her heart health concerns, Smart has been living with type 1 diabetes since childhood, a condition that has shaped her life significantly. She shared that this diagnosis influenced her decision to pursue acting, noting her mother’s understandable fears regarding her health during her teenage years.
Throughout her career, Smart has faced physical challenges on set as well. While filming “Mare of Easttown,” she suffered a broken rib and a concussion after an accident during a scene. She humorously recounted the incident, marking it as an unforgettable experience that humorously played into her character’s antics.
The loss of her husband has profoundly impacted Smart’s life and views on health. With her youngest son now 15, she expressed concern over leaving her children to navigate life without her. Following Richard’s unexpected passing, her older son, Connor, has been a source of support, living with her during this challenging transition. She expressed gratitude for his presence, stating, “It’s been very nice to have him around.”
As Jean Smart continues to shine in her career and navigate the complexities of life as a single mother, she embodies resilience and a newfound commitment to her health and family. Her story is a reminder of the importance of taking care of oneself and cherishing the support of loved ones through life’s trials.
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