Connor Douglas Gilliland is the son of two well-known American actors, Jean Smart and the late Richard Gilliland, but unlike many children of celebrities, he has chosen a quiet and private life away from Hollywood’s spotlight. Born on October 25, 1989, in Los Angeles, California, Connor grew up surrounded by fame but also with strong family values that taught him the importance of normalcy, humility, and independence. His parents, both respected in the entertainment industry, made sure that their son understood that fame and success should never replace kindness, education, and self-respect.
Despite having every opportunity to follow his parents into the entertainment business, Connor decided early on to live his life privately, building a path that focuses on balance and peace rather than publicity or recognition.
🌟 Personal Details
👤 Full Name: Connor Douglas Gilliland
🎂 Date of Birth: October 25, 1989
📍 Place of Birth: Los Angeles, California, United States
🧬 Nationality: American
🪶 Ethnicity: Caucasian
♏ Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
👨👩👦 Parents: Jean Smart (Mother), Richard Gilliland (Father)
👧 Siblings: Bonnie Kathleen Gilliland, Forrest Gilliland
🧑💼 Profession: Private / Not Publicly Known
💰 Net Worth: Not Known
🏠 Residence: United States
👁️ Eye Color: Blue
💇 Hair Color: Black
📏 Height: 5 feet 9 inches
⚖️ Weight: Around 60 kilograms
Early Life and Family Background
Connor was born into a loving and creative home in Los Angeles, a city that often defines people by their celebrity status. But his childhood was different. His parents were determined to protect him from the pressures that often come with fame. Jean Smart, famous for her roles in shows like Designing Women, Frasier, 24, and Hacks, and Richard Gilliland, known for Thirtysomething and Matlock, were both hardworking actors who believed in keeping their family life separate from their careers.
They wanted Connor to grow up understanding that even though his parents were on television, at home, they were just Mom and Dad. Dinner at the table, trips to the park, and movie nights were regular family traditions. These small but meaningful moments gave Connor a sense of stability and groundedness that shaped his character.
Looks and Appearance
Connor Douglas Gilliland is known for his simple and pleasant appearance. He stands about 5 feet 9 inches tall and has a slim build that suits his calm and confident personality. He has black hair and bright blue eyes, which make his features stand out in a gentle way. Connor prefers a neat and classic style, often choosing comfortable and simple clothing rather than flashy outfits. His overall look reflects his quiet nature and down-to-earth attitude, showing that he values simplicity and confidence over attention.
Father – Richard Gilliland
Connor’s father, Richard Gilliland, was a talented and respected actor whose work left a strong mark on television and film. Born on January 23, 1950, in Texas, Richard appeared in several well-known shows, including Designing Women, Thirtysomething, Matlock, and 24. He met Jean Smart while filming Designing Women, and their connection soon turned into a lifelong love. Richard was known not only for his skill as an actor but also for his warmth, integrity, and love for family.
His approach to life influenced Connor deeply, teaching him the value of humility and hard work. Sadly, Richard passed away in March 2021 after a brief illness. His death was a huge loss, but his memory continues to live on through the love and lessons he left behind.
Mother – Jean Smart
Jean Smart is one of Hollywood’s most admired actresses. Born on September 13, 1951, in Seattle, Washington, she has built an extraordinary career over several decades. She gained fame for her role in Designing Women and went on to win multiple Emmy Awards for her performances in Frasier, Samantha Who?, and Hacks. Jean has also appeared in hit series like The Watchmen, Mare of Easttown, and Fargo.
Despite her success, she has always prioritized her family and made sure her children were raised in a stable and loving home. She often speaks proudly of her sons and credits them for giving her strength, especially after the passing of her husband, Richard. Jean’s dedication to her craft and her family continues to inspire Connor, who remains close to her and supports her at major events.
Connor Douglas Gilliland Siblings
Connor is the eldest of three children. In 2009, when he was nineteen years old, his parents adopted a baby girl from China and named her Bonnie Kathleen Gilliland. Connor immediately became a protective and caring big brother, helping his younger sister adjust to her new home. Later, the family adopted another child named Forrest, further expanding the loving household. Even though there is a significant age difference between Connor and his siblings, their relationship is very close. He often takes on a mentor-like role, offering guidance, support, and encouragement. His strong connection with Bonnie and Forrest shows his caring nature and the importance he places on family unity.
Growing Up in Hollywood
As a child, Connor often visited film sets with his parents, where he saw firsthand the dedication that went into their work. While most children might have been fascinated by the glamour, Connor was more curious about the storytelling side of acting. He would ask his parents questions about scripts and characters, wanting to understand the meaning behind each scene rather than the fame attached to it. His natural curiosity and calm nature set him apart from the usual Hollywood kids who often find themselves in front of the camera.
Even though he was surrounded by actors, producers, and cameras, his parents made sure that his world was not defined by the entertainment business. They focused on giving him a life filled with learning, experiences, and family values that kept him grounded.
Education and Personal Growth
Connor attended private schools in Los Angeles, where he was known simply as Connor, not “Jean Smart’s son.” Teachers and classmates often described him as intelligent, polite, and thoughtful. He developed a strong interest in reading, writing, and debate, often participating in Model UN and school journalism clubs. These interests hinted at his love for communication and his ability to think deeply about human stories and emotions.
After finishing high school, Connor decided to continue his education outside of Los Angeles, choosing to live away from Hollywood’s constant attention. While the name of his college remains private, it is believed that he studied a subject within the humanities, possibly communications or journalism. This step away from home showed his desire for independence and his determination to build an identity separate from his family’s fame.
Career and Professional Life
Unlike many celebrity children who step directly into the entertainment industry, Connor chose a different path. There is no public record of him working as an actor or appearing in film or television, and this seems to be a deliberate choice. Some sources suggest he may have explored creative fields such as media, writing, or production, but nothing has ever been confirmed. What stands out most about Connor’s professional life is how private he keeps it.
He does not use his parents’ fame to gain opportunities or attention. Instead, he appears to have built a quiet and independent career that allows him to live comfortably without being in the public eye. This decision to stay away from fame reflects his maturity and strong sense of self, values clearly influenced by the way his parents raised him.
Relationship with Family
Family has always been at the center of Connor’s life. In 2009, when Connor was about nineteen, his parents adopted a baby girl from China named Bonnie Kathleen Gilliland. The addition of a younger sister brought new joy to the family, and Connor naturally took on the role of a caring and protective older brother. Despite their age difference, he has always been patient and loving toward Bonnie, helping her adjust to her new home and guiding her as she grew up. Later, the family expanded again with the adoption of another child named Forrest.
The family’s choice to adopt shows the deep compassion and open-hearted nature that Jean and Richard passed on to their children. Connor’s relationship with his siblings highlights his loyalty, kindness, and the value he places on family bonds.
Loss of His Father
In March 2021, the Gilliland family faced a heartbreaking tragedy when Richard Gilliland passed away suddenly after a short illness. Richard was not only a talented actor but also a devoted husband and father. His death left a deep void in the family. During this time, Connor became a strong source of support for his mother and siblings. Jean Smart later shared in interviews that her sons were her greatest strength during that difficult period, helping her through grief with love and understanding.
This loss taught Connor the importance of resilience and togetherness. Even though the pain of losing a parent never truly fades, he has continued to honor his father’s memory through the values of love, respect, and humility that Richard instilled in him.
Public Appearances
Connor rarely appears in public, but when he does, it is usually to support his mother at important events. One such moment came during the 2021 Emmy Awards, when Jean Smart won for her role in Hacks. Cameras captured a brief but touching shot of Connor in the audience, smiling proudly as his mother gave her speech. Another memorable moment was at the Critics’ Choice Awards, where he was seen walking beside her, guiding her through a crowd of photographers. These small but meaningful appearances show the close bond he shares with his mother. Unlike many celebrity children who seek attention, Connor’s public appearances are simple, respectful, and filled with quiet pride.
Personality and Values
People who know Connor describe him as thoughtful, calm, and down-to-earth. He is someone who values honesty, respect, and simplicity. Growing up with famous parents could have easily led him toward a life of glamour and media attention, but instead, he chose peace and privacy. He believes that happiness doesn’t come from fame or money, but from meaningful relationships and inner contentment.
His private lifestyle shows that he values experiences over appearances, something that sets him apart in a world where many chase fame. Even in the age of social media, Connor keeps a very low profile. His Instagram account is private, with a small circle of close friends and family. The few posts that exist reportedly show his love for art, travel, photography, and nature.
Financial Life
Although details about Connor’s income or career are private, it is believed that he lives comfortably due to his parents’ successful careers and his own independent work. Jean Smart’s net worth is estimated to be around $12 million as of 2025, while his late father, Richard Gilliland, had earned around $4–5 million during his lifetime. Connor has never been seen living extravagantly or seeking luxury. He is known to prefer a simple, balanced lifestyle. He doesn’t drive flashy cars or appear at exclusive events, which shows his modest and practical approach to life. His financial security allows him to live peacefully and pursue his interests without the constant pressure of public expectations.
Relationship with His Mother
Connor’s bond with his mother is particularly strong. Jean Smart often speaks about how proud she is of her sons, and Connor has always been her quiet supporter. After the death of Richard Gilliland, Jean shared that her children helped her cope with the loss and gave her the strength to continue her work. Connor has been by her side at many important events, not as a celebrity companion but as a loving son offering emotional support.
Their relationship represents mutual respect, admiration, and deep affection that go beyond the Hollywood spotlight. Jean’s continued success in her career, including multiple Emmy wins, has often been accompanied by Connor’s silent but steady presence, showing how much they mean to each other.
Privacy and Media Attention
Connor’s choice to live privately is something many people admire. In an age where fame often defines identity, he proves that it is possible to live a happy, fulfilling life away from public attention. There are very few photos or interviews about him online, and he has never sought to use his parents’ fame to gain recognition. This respect for privacy has also earned him a level of peace that many in Hollywood never experience. The media has largely respected his boundaries, which speaks to the dignified way he and his family handle fame. By keeping his personal and professional life private, Connor has shown a remarkable ability to control his narrative and live life on his own terms.
Character and Legacy
Connor’s story is not about fame or success in the traditional sense. It is about values, love, and integrity. He grew up in a family where talent and hard work were respected, but kindness and humility were valued even more. These lessons are visible in the way he carries himself—calmly, thoughtfully, and respectfully. His life shows that being a celebrity’s child does not have to mean living under the constant gaze of the public. It can mean using that background to build a quiet, meaningful life that reflects who you truly are. He represents a new kind of Hollywood legacy, one that values substance over spectacle and privacy over publicity.
Conclusion
Connor Douglas Gilliland is a wonderful example of someone who was born into fame but chose to live a quiet and meaningful life. As the son of Jean Smart and the late Richard Gilliland, he grew up surrounded by Hollywood yet remained humble, private, and grounded. He values family, peace, and independence more than public attention or luxury. His calm personality, strong morals, and love for his family show that success isn’t about fame but about living honestly and with purpose. Connor’s life proves that true happiness comes from simplicity, love, and being true to yourself.
❓ FAQs About Connor Douglas Gilliland
1. Who is Connor Douglas Gilliland?
Connor Douglas Gilliland is the son of Emmy-winning actress Jean Smart and the late actor Richard Gilliland. He is known for living a private life away from Hollywood’s spotlight.
2. When was Connor Douglas Gilliland born?
He was born on October 25, 1989, in Los Angeles, California, United States.
3. How old is Connor Douglas Gilliland?
As of 2025, Connor Douglas Gilliland is 35 years old.
4. Who are Connor Douglas Gilliland’s parents?
His parents are Jean Smart, a well-known American actress, and Richard Gilliland, a respected actor who passed away in 2021.
5. Does Connor Douglas Gilliland have any siblings?
Yes, he has two siblings — Bonnie Kathleen Gilliland and Forrest Gilliland, both adopted by his parents.
6. What does Connor Douglas Gilliland do for a living?
Connor has kept his career private, but it is believed he works outside of the entertainment industry, focusing on his own independent path.
7. Is Connor Douglas Gilliland active on social media?
Connor prefers to stay private and is not active on public social media platforms. He reportedly maintains a private Instagram account limited to close friends and family.
