Jean Smart Discusses Life as a Widow and Working Mom

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In a heartfelt interview with a popular media outlet, the talented actress Jean Smart opened up about the challenges she faced while filming the second season of “Hacks” for HBO, following the unexpected passing of her husband, Richard Gilliland, in March 2021. At 70, Smart has been juggling multiple roles, appearing in acclaimed series like “Watchmen” and “Mare of Easttown,” both of which received Emmy nominations. However, the conversation took a meaningful turn as she shared her experiences as a grieving single parent.

Reflecting on her Emmy win for “Hacks,” Smart recalled her preoccupations that night, particularly regarding a tribute to her late husband, who was honored during the event’s memorial segment. “I was kind of a nervous wreck most of the evening waiting for that. I was there with our youngest child (son Forrest) and I thought, ‘That’s going to be very hurtful, but I’ll try to explain if he’s not included somehow.’ And he was, which was lovely, but I was pretty stressed about that.”

Forrest, now 13, accompanied Jean to the premiere. When asked if he watches her performances, she noted that he is still young and recently started to engage with her work. “There’s definitely some stuff that’s off limits,” she explained. “It’s only been recently that he’s even cared about watching them. A lot of kids don’t want to see their parents act, it’s like, ‘No, you’re just my mom.’” However, she eventually let him watch select scenes, and he finished the first season right before the premiere of the second season.

When asked if returning to work was therapeutic after her loss, Smart responded, “Yes and no. This season was much tougher than the first because Dad wasn’t at home running the ship.” She continued, “I had this constant stress level of, ‘What’s going on with the house?’ Plus, we had longer hours this year because of the locations, so it was, ‘Did Forrest get breakfast? Did he get to school on time? Who’s picking him up today?’ That was always on my mind.”

Smart also expressed her newfound respect for single mothers, acknowledging, “I had no idea how hard single mothers have it. I have so many resources that other working moms don’t. I can’t even imagine.” She also has an older son, Conor, 32, who prefers to stay out of the public eye. Don’t miss the second season of “Hacks,” airing on Tuesdays on HBO.

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In summary, Jean Smart’s candid discussion about navigating grief while being a working mother highlights the complexities and challenges faced by many parents, particularly those in similar situations. Her reflections offer valuable insights into the balancing act of work and family life, showcasing her resilience and dedication.

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