Jean Smart’s impressive filmography includes a mix of blockbuster hits and lesser-known independent films. After finishing her college education, she launched her career as a stage actress in the 1970s. Smart then made her way to New York City, where she transitioned into television, achieving fame with her role as Charlene Frazier Stillfield in the beloved sitcom Designing Women.
Following her success on that series, she embraced smaller roles in television movies before landing another major part as Lana Gardner on Frasier. Over time, Smart expanded her portfolio with diverse film roles, but her most prominent successes have come from television. With 13 Emmy nominations to her name, she has secured six wins for her standout performances in Frasier, Samantha Who?, and Hacks.
10 Babylon (2022)
Elinor St. John
Among the notable projects in 2022 was Babylon, a film notorious for polarizing audiences and critics alike. This ambitious film explores the tumultuous shift from silent films to talkies, depicting the impact on the lives of various industry figures. Notable stars include Brad Pitt and Margot Robbie, and Jean Smart plays a pivotal role as Elinor St. John.
Elinor is a sharp-witted gossip columnist whose words carry the power to uplift or dismantle careers. Though her role is relatively small, it illustrates how the public image of stars often lies in the hands of commentators like her. While the film garnered three Oscar nominations and five Golden Globe nods, it took home the award for Best Original Score. Smart’s portrayal earned her a Satellite Award nomination.
9 Mare of Easttown (2021)
Helen Fahey
In the gripping miniseries Mare of Easttown, released in 2021, Kate Winslet stars as Mare Sheehan, a police detective locked in a high-pressure investigation of a murder and a missing girl. Jean Smart plays her mother, Helen Fahey, bringing a vibrant performance as a strong-willed character who isn’t shy about expressing her opinions.
Although the show’s central mystery captivates viewers, it is the portrayal of the small-town dynamics—embodied by characters like Helen—that truly enriches the narrative. Smart’s performance garnered her an Emmy nomination, solidifying her status as a compelling presence in this critically acclaimed series.
8 Legion (2017–2019)
Melanie Bird
Jean Smart ventured into the Marvel Universe with the visually inventive series Legion, which premiered in 2017. Centered around David Haller, played by Dan Stevens, the show dives deep into the complexities of mental health while teasing out David’s hidden mutant abilities.
Smart portrays Melanie Bird, a therapist dedicated to helping mutants harness their powers while safeguarding them from government threats. Despite being set in the X-Men comic universe, Legion stands apart with its unique narrative style and character depth, earning a loyal following during its three-season run.
7 Fargo (2015)
Floyd Gerhardt
In 2015, Smart joined the acclaimed anthology series Fargo, embodying Floyd Gerhardt, the formidable matriarch of a crime family in Fargo, North Dakota. As her family faces mounting dangers, Smart’s portrayal showcases her range as she navigates complex familial and criminal dynamics.
Her memorable performance, especially in the episode “Fear and Trembling,” received widespread praise and earned her a Critics’ Choice Television Award as well as an Emmy nomination, highlighting her ability to dominate the screen.
6 Designing Women (1986–1991)
Charlene Frazier-Stillfield
Jean Smart rose to fame with her role in the groundbreaking sitcom Designing Women, which aired from 1986 to 1991. This delightful series focused on a group of women navigating the interior design business in Atlanta. Smart’s character, Charlene Frazier, served as the affable office manager.
Although the series became a television staple, critically recognized with 17 Emmy nominations, Smart’s individual recognition came later in her career as she transitioned into more diverse roles.
5 Samantha Who? (2007–2009)
Regina Newly
Samantha Who?, a comedy series that aired between 2007 and 2009, featured Jean Smart as Regina, the mother of the title character, played by Christina Applegate. The show follows Samantha as she navigates life with amnesia and seeks redemption after discovering she was not the best person before her accident.
Smart’s portrayal of the dysfunctional family dynamics brought levity and depth to the series, earning her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 2008. Although the show was cut short, it remains fondly remembered for its unique take on personal growth and relationships.
4 24 (2006–2007)
Martha Logan
Jean Smart joined the high-stakes political thriller 24 in its fifth season, providing a standout performance as Martha Logan, the First Lady of the United States. As the wife of President Charles Logan, portrayed by Gregory Itzin, Smart’s character becomes embroiled in the season’s gripping narrative, often challenging her husband’s moral decisions.
Her nuanced portrayal captured the complexities of a woman grappling with her husband’s controversial choices, receiving recognition through two consecutive Primetime Emmy nominations.
3 Watchmen (2019)
Agent Laurie Blake
In 2019, HBO unveiled the critically acclaimed sequel series Watchmen, which expands upon the original storyline to explore contemporary societal issues. Jean Smart appears as Agent Laurie Blake, the second Silk Spectre, navigating a landscape filled with racial tensions and vigilantism.
Her character’s intersections with themes of justice, morality, and personal history contributed significantly to the show’s depth, earning Smart yet another Primetime Emmy nomination for her performance.
2 Frasier (2000–2001)
Lana Gardner
Smart’s noteworthy stint on Frasier carved a path for future success, as she won two Primetime Emmy Awards for her role as Lana Gardner, a former high school crush of Frasier Crane. Her character’s charisma and tumultuous relationship with Frasier enriched the show’s dynamics and showcased her comedic talents.
Smart’s skillful embodiment of Lana’s overbearing nature became a beloved aspect of the series, ultimately leading to her recognition as one of the standout guest stars during her tenure.
1 Hacks (2021–present)
Deborah Vance
The pinnacle of Jean Smart’s recent success comes with her lead role as Deborah Vance in the HBO series Hacks, which debuted in 2021. The series deftly explores the professional alliance between the aging comedy legend and a young writer, showcasing Smart’s comedic chops and dramatic range.
With the narrative focusing on Deborah’s need to rejuvenate her act, aided by the ambitious Ava Daniels, portrayed by Hannah Einbinder, the show has received critical acclaim, including Golden Globe Awards for Best Television Series and Best Actress for Smart. Additionally, she has secured Emmy wins for her outstanding performance across all three aired seasons, further solidifying her status as a powerhouse in the entertainment industry.
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