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Jean Smart is one of the darlings of TV. Although she’s known for her comedic roles, Smart’s also proved great at dramatic performances. Whether she’s a supporting character or a leading lady, fans love Smart’s performances. Throughout her career, she’s received plenty of awards, not to mention a nice salary. Read on to learn more about Smart’s award-winning work and her net worth.

Actor Jean Smart during a November 2019 interview at the People Now Studios in New York.
Jean Smart I John Lamparski/Getty Images

Jean Smart’s early work and rise to fame

Smart’s acting journey began after graduating from the University of Washington, where she majored in drama. She began doing local theater work. By the 1980s’ she’d started booking film and television roles. It wasn’t until 1986 when she landed her big break on the CBS sitcom Designing Women.

For five seasons, Smart portrayed the lovable yet ditzy Charlene Frazier. Following her departure from the show, Smart remained busy with small parts in films such as Snow Day and Sweet Home Alabama. She also had guest roles on TV shows, including Frasier. Smart’s recurring role on the NBC comedy earned her back-to-back Emmys for Guest Actress in 2000 and 2001.

Smart received more Emmy nominations for her work in 24, Fargo, and Watchmen. In 2008, she won a Supporting Actress Emmy for her performance on the ABC sitcom Samantha Who?

Jean Smart received two 2021 Primetime Emmy nominations

Smart has the chance to add more trophies to her shelves. She’s nominated for two 2021 Primetime Emmy Awards. Her role as Kate Winslet’s mother in the HBO drama Mare of Easttown earned her an Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series nod.

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Smart is also up for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy for Hacks. Her portrayal of Las Vegas comedian Deborah Vance earned rave reviews and helped the HBO Max series get picked up for a second season. Although Smart has a chance to become a double winner during the Sept. 19 broadcast, critics believe there’s only one category she’ll sweep. According to Rolling Stone, Smart is the leading contender to take home the Comedy Emmy.

What is Jean Smart’s net worth?

As an award-winning actor, it’s no surprise that Smart is in top demand when it comes to television. Throughout her four decades in Hollywood, Smart’s not only received lots of accolades, but also a nice salary. According to CelebrityNetWorth.com, Smart’s net worth is estimated to be $10 million.

As for Smart’s personal life, she was married to her Designing Women co-star Richard Gilliland from 1987 til his death in March 2021. The couple had two children, son Connor and daughter Bonnie.