At 72 years young, Emmy and Golden Globe winner Jean Smart shows no signs of slowing down. The acclaimed actress, whose career spans five remarkable decades, continues to deliver powerhouse performances across television and film. From her scene-stealing turn in Hacks to her dramatic work in Mare of Easttown, Smart remains one of Hollywood’s most in-demand talents. Here’s everything you need to know about her latest projects, awards buzz, and personal journey.
The Triumphant Return of Hacks Season 3
The Max original series Hacks has become a career-defining role for Smart, earning her widespread acclaim as Deborah Vance, a legendary stand-up comedian navigating the twilight of her career. The show’s third season premiered on May 2, 2024, delivering the same sharp wit and emotional depth that made it an instant classic.
This season finds Deborah enjoying newfound success as a late-night talk show host, but the road to the top isn’t without its bumps. Her complicated mentorship with young writer Ava (Hannah Einbinder) takes unexpected turns as both women grapple with professional jealousy and personal growth. Early reviews praise Smart’s ability to balance laugh-out-loud comedy with moments of surprising vulnerability.
The series has already earned Smart an Emmy, Golden Globe, and SAG Award. With Season 3 generating even more buzz, awards prognosticators predict another strong showing during the 2024-2025 awards season. The chemistry between Smart and Einbinder remains the show’s secret weapon, with their scenes together delivering both hilarious zingers and poignant emotional beats.
Expanding Her Range: From Elsbeth to The Accountant 2
Never one to be typecast, Smart recently showcased her versatility with a guest appearance on CBS’s Elsbeth, the popular Good Wife spinoff. In a departure from her comedic work, Smart played a mysterious wealthy woman entangled in a murder investigation. Though only appearing in one episode, her performance left audiences wanting more, proving she can command the screen in any genre.
Looking ahead, Smart is set to join the action-thriller world with The Accountant 2, starring opposite Ben Affleck. Slated for a 2025 release, the sequel will feature Smart as Rita Blackburn, a tough-as-nails Treasury Department director. The role marks a significant departure from her recent comedic work and demonstrates her impressive range as an actress.
Overcoming Personal Challenges
Behind the scenes, Smart has faced significant personal challenges in recent years. In 2021, she underwent unexpected heart surgery just as Hacks was gaining critical momentum. Showing her trademark resilience, Smart recovered fully and returned to work without missing a beat.
That same year brought an even more profound loss with the sudden passing of her husband, actor Richard Gilliland. The couple had been married for over 30 years and worked together frequently. Smart has spoken openly about the grieving process, crediting her work and her two children with helping her through difficult times.
In interviews, Smart often reflects on finding balance in her seventh decade – maintaining a thriving career while prioritizing family and self-care. Her ability to channel personal experiences into her performances adds depth to every role she takes on.
Accolades and Industry Recognition
Smart’s recent work has earned her some of the best reviews of her already illustrious career. In addition to her Emmy and Golden Globe wins for Hacks, she’s received:
- A 2024 Satellite Award nomination
- The Hollywood Critics Association Career Achievement Award
- Multiple Critics Choice Award nominations
Industry peers frequently praise Smart’s professionalism and generosity on set. Younger co-stars, including Einbinder, often speak about learning invaluable lessons from watching the veteran actress work.
What’s Next for the Beloved Star?
With Hacks Season 3 currently airing and The Accountant 2 in production, Smart’s schedule remains packed. Rumors persist about potential new projects, including:
- A possible fourth season of Hacks (though HBO has yet to make an official announcement)
- Talks for a leading role in an upcoming HBO limited series
- Potential return to Broadway, where she previously starred in Sweet Bird of Youth
Fans can also look forward to Smart’s upcoming appearances on the awards circuit, where she’s sure to bring her signature blend of elegance and self-deprecating humor to red carpets and acceptance speeches.
A Lasting Legacy in Hollywood
What makes Jean Smart’s career so remarkable isn’t just its longevity, but its consistent quality. From her early days on Designing Women to her current status as one of television’s most respected actresses, Smart has avoided the traps of typecasting that ensnare many performers.
Her secret? An uncanny ability to find the humanity in every character, whether she’s playing a fading comedy legend, a grieving mother, or a no-nonsense government official. At an age when many actresses struggle to find substantial roles, Smart is enjoying what might be the most fruitful chapter of her career.
As Hacks continues to break new ground in its portrayal of women in comedy, and as Smart takes on increasingly diverse film roles, one thing is clear: this is an artist at the peak of her powers. With her combination of raw talent, work ethic, and emotional authenticity, Jean Smart isn’t just having a moment – she’s cementing her status as one of the greats.
For audiences, the joy is in watching this master craftswoman continue to surprise us, season after season, role after role. In an industry that often undervalues women of a certain age, Smart’s success serves as both inspiration and proof that true talent only deepens with time.
Stay tuned for more updates on Jean Smart’s extraordinary journey – if her track record is any indication, the best may be yet to come.