Jean Smart, the Emmy-winning actress known for her role in the critically acclaimed HBO series Hacks, has been making headlines once again. At 74, she recently graced the red carpet at the 2026 Roundabout Gala in New York City, accompanied by her boyfriend Joe Pacheco. The event, held at the Ziegfeld Ballroom, celebrated the renowned Roundabout Theatre Company, and Smart's appearance offered a rare glimpse into her personal life.
Smart, who has been keeping her relationships out of the public eye, looked effortlessly elegant in a sophisticated black evening gown with a dramatic off-the-shoulder neckline and tiered ruffle detailing. Her blonde hair was swept up into a polished updo, adding to the classic Hollywood feel of the ensemble. She completed the look with statement black earrings and soft, glamorous makeup that highlighted her bright blue eyes.
Her boyfriend, Joe, looked dapper in a classic black tuxedo with a crisp white shirt and black tie. The pair smiled warmly for photographers, with Joe placing a supportive arm around Smart as they posed together at the gala. This public appearance comes several years after the death of her husband, actor Richard Gilliland, who passed away unexpectedly in 2021.
Smart has been open about the difficulty of losing her mate of 35 years, describing Richard as the love of her life. "Losing your mate of 35 years, I mean, literally half my life I lived with him is just kind of indescribable," she revealed on Who's Talking to Chris Wallace?. "And it just, you go through this period of thinking it's just not real,' she added. 'It's just this isn't real. You know? This just doesn't make any sense."
Despite the tragedy, Smart has slowly returned to public events and social occasions while continuing her thriving career. Her role as stand-up comedian Deborah Vance in Hacks has earned her multiple Emmy Awards and introduced her to a new generation of fans. Her recent success with the show has been widely praised as one of Hollywood's most impressive late-career renaissances.
Smart's appearance with Joe at the Roundabout Gala is a testament to her resilience and ability to move forward after loss. It also highlights her commitment to maintaining a private life while pursuing her successful career. As she continues to grace the screen and stage, Smart's talent and presence will undoubtedly continue to captivate audiences for years to come.
