Hollywood families have always attracted public curiosity, not just for the stars themselves but also for their children. One such personality who often piques interest is Connor Douglas Gilliland, the son of late actor Richard Gilliland and award-winning actress Jean Smart. Despite being born into a celebrity household, Connor has consciously chosen to live a private life away from Hollywood’s spotlight. This article provides a comprehensive biography and analysis of Connor’s life, his famous family, and everything available about him.
Quick Facts Connor Douglas Gilliland
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Connor Douglas Gilliland |
| Famous As | Jean Smart’s Son |
| Age | 33 |
| Date of Birth | 25 October 1989 |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
| Parents | Jean Smart, Richard Gilliland |
| Siblings | Bonnie Kathleen Gilliland |
| Gender | Male |
| Profession | Not Known |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Height | 5’9’’ |
| Weight | 60kg |
Connor was born into a family deeply connected to television, theater, and film. However, unlike many children of celebrities, Connor has consciously stayed away from Hollywood and instead built a life outside the entertainment industry.
About His Father: Richard Gilliland
Richard Gilliland (January 23, 1950 – March 18, 2021) was an accomplished American actor with more than four decades of experience.
Career Highlights:
-
Best known for playing J.D. Shackleford on the CBS sitcom Designing Women.
-
Appeared in television series such as Thirtysomething, Matlock, 24, and Operation Petticoat.
-
Worked in films including Airplane II: The Sequel (1982).
-
Also performed in stage productions, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Gilliland’s sudden death in 2021 due to a heart condition shocked both fans and colleagues. His passing left behind not only a respected Hollywood career but also a family that valued privacy and strong bonds.
About His Mother: Jean Smart
Jean Smart is a household name in American entertainment. Born in 1951, she has built an impressive career across film, television, and stage, earning multiple accolades.
Career Achievements:
-
Emmy-winning roles in Frasier and Samantha Who?
-
Critically acclaimed performances in Watchmen (2019), Mare of Easttown (2021), and Hacks (2021–present).
-
Tony Award nomination for her performance in The Man Who Came to Dinner.
Jean Smart is celebrated for seamlessly moving between comedic and dramatic roles, cementing her reputation as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actresses.
Siblings and Family Life
Connor is not an only child. In 2009, Richard Gilliland and Jean Smart adopted a daughter from China, Bonnie Kathleen Gilliland. This expanded the family unit and gave Connor a sibling relationship.
Despite Jean Smart’s fame, both Connor and Bonnie have been largely shielded from the media, highlighting the family’s commitment to privacy.
Early Life and Education
Although specific details about Connor’s education are not publicly disclosed, it is widely believed that he attended reputable schools in the United States, benefiting from the resources and opportunities of being raised in a well-established family.
It is possible that he pursued higher education in fields outside of acting, which would explain his absence from Hollywood. Unlike his mother and father, Connor has not been linked to any entertainment industry projects.
Career of Connor Douglas Gilliland
One of the biggest questions surrounding Connor is what career path he chose.
Key Points:
| No Acting Career | Unlike his parents, Connor has not appeared in films, television, or theater. |
| Private Profession | He may have pursued a career in business, technology, or another professional field outside public attention. |
| Absence from Social Media | Connor’s lack of a strong social media presence reinforces his privacy preference. |
This decision to avoid the limelight may reflect a desire to live an ordinary life away from the pressures of Hollywood.
Why is Connor Douglas Gilliland Not Famous?
Many people wonder why Connor has not pursued fame like his parents. The answer lies in his personal choice and the values instilled by his family.
Possible Reasons:
Personal Privacy: He may value personal freedom over public recognition.
Different Career Path: His interests may lie in areas unrelated to acting.
Avoiding Media Pressure: Growing up with famous parents often brings challenges. Maintaining a private identity can protect personal well-being.
Net Worth and Financial Status
Since Connor’s career details are unknown, his net worth cannot be accurately estimated. However, given his parents’ financial success, it is likely that he has benefited from a comfortable upbringing.
Richard Gilliland’s Net Worth: Estimated between $4 million–$5 million at the time of his death.
Jean Smart’s Net Worth: Estimated at around $12 million (as of 2025).
This financial security may have allowed Connor the flexibility to choose a career outside of Hollywood without financial pressures.
Public Interest in Celebrity Children
Connor Douglas Gilliland’s story fits into a broader pattern of curiosity about celebrity children. Unlike children of actors who actively pursue fame—such as Jaden Smith or Lily-Rose Depp—Connor represents the other side: a celebrity child who chooses private independence.
This contrast often makes him more intriguing, as fans want to know why some children embrace fame while others avoid it.
FAQs
Who is Connor Douglas Gilliland?
He is the son of late American actor Richard Gilliland and Emmy-winning actress Jean Smart.
When was he born?
Connor was born on October 25, 1989.
How old is Connor Douglas Gilliland?
As of 2025, he is 35 years old.
Does he have siblings?
Yes, he has one younger sister, Bonnie Kathleen Gilliland, adopted from China in 2009.
Did Connor pursue acting like his parents?
No, there is no record of him working in Hollywood. He has chosen a private lifestyle.
What is his net worth?
Connor’s exact net worth is unknown. However, he likely benefits from the financial stability of his parents’ success.
What happened to his father, Richard Gilliland?
Richard Gilliland passed away on March 18, 2021, due to a heart condition.
What is Jean Smart doing now?
Jean Smart continues to act, most notably in the HBO Max series Hacks, which has earned her critical acclaim and awards.
Conclusion
Connor Douglas Gilliland may not be a household name like his parents, but his story is one of personal independence and privacy. Born into a family of Hollywood stars, Connor chose a life away from the cameras, proving that not every child of celebrities seeks fame. His father, Richard Gilliland, left a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry, while his mother, Jean Smart, continues to thrive as one of Hollywood’s most respected actresses. Together, they shaped a supportive environment where their children, including Connor, could choose their paths.
Show Comments (0)