What was Richard Gilliland's net worth?
Richard Gilliland was an American actor who had a net worth of $12 million at the time of his death. That was a combined net worth with his wife from 2017 until his death in 2021, actress Jean Smart.
Richard Gilliland was an accomplished American character actor with a career spanning over four decades in television, film, and theater. Born on January 23, 1950, in Fort Worth, Texas, he developed an early interest in acting and pursued theater studies at the Goodman School of Drama in Chicago.
Gilliland's television career began in the 1970s with appearances on various shows, but he gained significant recognition for his recurring role as J.D. Shackelford in the television series "Designing Women" (1986-1992). This role was particularly meaningful as it led to his meeting actress Jean Smart on set, whom he married in 1987.
Throughout his career, Gilliland demonstrated remarkable versatility as an actor, appearing in numerous popular television series. His credits included roles in "Operation Petticoat," "McMillan & Wife," "The Waltons," "Thirtysomething," "Party of Five," and "Dexter." He showed particular skill in both dramatic and comedic roles, often playing characters that ranged from authoritative figures to endearing supporting roles.
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Beyond television, Gilliland maintained strong connections to theater, performing in various stage productions throughout his career. He and his wife Jean Smart occasionally worked together, including appearing in various stage productions and television projects. The couple had two children together, including their son Connor.
In addition to his acting work, Gilliland was known within the industry for his professionalism and collaborative spirit. He continued working consistently through the 2000s and 2010s, taking on guest roles in shows like "Crossing Jordan," "24," and "Criminal Minds."
Richard Gilliland passed away on March 18, 2021, in Los Angeles at the age of 71, due to a heart condition. His death was deeply felt within the entertainment community, with many colleagues remembering him not only for his talent as an actor but also for his kind and generous nature.
Personal Life & Real Estate
Richard and Jean Smart were married from 1987 until his death in 2021. They met while working on "Designing Women," where he played the boyfriend of Annie Pott's character. They also worked together decades later on season five of "24." They have two sons. They welcomed their first son in 1989 and adopted a second son in 2009.
In 2002, Jean and Richard paid $1.525 million for a home in Encino, California. She continues to own this home as of this writing. The home's estimated value is $4 million. In December 2022, Jean paid $5.25 million for a home in Toluca Lake, California. Just under a decade earlier, the home was owned by George Lopez and his then-wife Ann. Ann received the property in 2011 as part of their divorce and sold it to Jean.
