Connor Douglas Gilliland, born on October 25, 1989, in Los Angeles, California, is the son of acclaimed actors Jean Smart and the late Richard Gilliland. Growing up in a family deeply connected to Hollywood, Connor was surrounded by creativity and performance from a young age. Despite being the son of two successful actors, he has chosen to live a quiet and private life, staying away from the spotlight that defined much of his parents’ careers. His upbringing was shaped by strong family values, emotional grounding, and a desire for normalcy amid fame. Unlike many celebrity children who pursue entertainment careers, Connor has taken a different path, focusing on privacy and personal fulfillment. This article explores his early life, his parents’ influence, his relationship with his siblings, and how he continues to honor his family’s legacy through his quiet strength, independence, and authenticity.
Quick Bio: Connor Douglas Gilliland
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Connor Douglas Gilliland |
| Date of Birth | October 25, 1989 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 35 years |
| Place of Birth | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Parents | Jean Smart (mother), Richard Gilliland (father) |
| Siblings | Bonnie Kathleen Gilliland (adoptive sister), Forrest (younger brother) |
| Profession | Private / Not publicly known |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Known For | Son of actors Jean Smart and Richard Gilliland |
Early Life and Background
Connor Douglas Gilliland was born on October 25, 1989, in Los Angeles, California, into a home filled with creativity and love. As the son of Jean Smart and Richard Gilliland, he grew up surrounded by the entertainment world, often accompanying his parents to studios and rehearsals. Even though his childhood was connected to the film and television industry, his parents made sure he had a grounded upbringing, far from the glamour and pressure of Hollywood fame. The family’s American roots and values of humility, education, and creativity shaped Connor’s personality early on. His upbringing was centered around respect, family support, and the idea that success means living an authentic and balanced life rather than chasing public attention.
Connor Douglas Gilliland Family Background
Mother – Jean Smart
Jean Smart, born on September 13, 1951, in Seattle, Washington, is an award-winning American actress known for her versatile career in television, film, and theater. She gained national recognition from the sitcom Designing Women and later earned critical acclaim for her roles in 24, Fargo, and Hacks. Over the years, Jean has received multiple Emmy and SAG Awards, earning respect as one of Hollywood’s most talented and enduring stars. Despite her busy schedule, Jean Smart has always prioritized family life. She raised her children with love and balance, showing that it’s possible to thrive in a demanding career while being a devoted mother.
Father – Richard Gilliland
Richard Gilliland was born on January 23, 1950, and passed away on March 18, 2021. He was an American actor best known for his roles in Designing Women, Thirtysomething, and Airplane II: The Sequel. Richard met Jean Smart on the set of Designing Women, and they married in 1987, forming one of Hollywood’s most admired long-term partnerships. Their marriage, which lasted over three decades, was built on love, humor, and shared artistic respect. Richard’s death deeply affected the family, but his legacy lives on through his work and the values he instilled in his children. He is remembered as a kind, talented, and devoted family man.
Connor Douglas Gilliland Siblings – Bonnie Kathleen Gilliland and Forrest
Connor has two siblings: Bonnie Kathleen Gilliland, adopted from China in 2004, and Forrest, a younger brother. Bonnie’s arrival brought new energy and love into the Gilliland family, enriching their bond and expanding their sense of togetherness. Forrest, who also prefers privacy, shares a strong connection with his siblings. As the eldest, Connor has always played a protective and supportive role, especially after their father’s passing. The siblings remain close-knit, valuing family unity above all else.
Growing Up in Hollywood
Growing up in the heart of Los Angeles, Connor Gilliland’s childhood was naturally connected to Hollywood. He spent time on film sets, watched his parents perform, and experienced the excitement of the entertainment industry firsthand. However, Jean Smart and Richard Gilliland were very intentional about keeping their son’s life private and free from media attention. They avoided exposing him to the pressures of child acting or public appearances, allowing him to enjoy a normal childhood. This balance between fame and privacy taught Connor the importance of personal boundaries and independence, shaping him into a grounded and thoughtful adult.
Personality and Character
Those who know Connor Douglas Gilliland describe him as mature, private, and deeply family-oriented. His calm demeanor and preference for a peaceful, low-profile lifestyle reflect his inner strength and emotional intelligence. He is known to value loyalty, respect, and real-world connections over social popularity or fame. While he inherited his parents’ creativity and sensitivity, Connor chose to apply these qualities in quieter, more personal ways. His introverted nature and love for privacy have made him a symbol of stability within a family that has spent decades in the public eye.
Education and Interests
There is no official public record of Connor Douglas Gilliland’s education, but given his family’s background and residence in Los Angeles, it is likely he attended private schools with a focus on academic and artistic development. Raised in a home where creativity and discipline were equally valued, Connor was encouraged to explore his interests freely. He likely developed an appreciation for the arts, literature, and perhaps film, although he has never pursued acting publicly. His parents’ approach emphasized independence, responsibility, and lifelong learning, values that have clearly influenced his choices as an adult.
Relationship with His Parents
Connor’s relationship with his parents has always been marked by deep love and mutual respect. Jean Smart and Richard Gilliland raised their children in an environment of emotional warmth and open communication. After his father’s passing in 2021, Connor became a strong emotional support for his mother, helping her navigate the difficult period of loss. Jean has publicly expressed how grateful she is for her children’s strength and care during that time. Their close bond demonstrates the strong family values that have guided Connor’s life — love, resilience, and togetherness.
Coping with Tragedy
The loss of Richard Gilliland in 2021 was a painful turning point for the family. Connor’s quiet strength became essential as he stepped up to support his mother and siblings emotionally. Known for his loyalty and sensitivity, Connor helped the family remain connected through their grief. Jean Smart has spoken warmly of her sons’ support, noting how they helped her recover and continue working after Richard’s passing. This chapter revealed Connor’s maturity and deep sense of responsibility — qualities that reflect the love and guidance his parents gave him throughout his life.
Career and Professional Life
Unlike his parents, Connor Douglas Gilliland has chosen a completely private professional life. There are no public records of his career or business activities, suggesting a deliberate choice to live outside the entertainment industry. While his father and mother built careers in front of the camera, Connor has preferred to stay behind the scenes, focusing on a life defined by personal goals rather than public attention. It’s possible that he has explored creative or private-sector fields, but he has maintained full privacy regarding his professional endeavors, a decision that reflects his independent spirit.
Family Bond and Support System
The Gilliland family is known for its strong sense of unity and mutual care. Connor shares a particularly close bond with his adoptive sister, Bonnie, and younger brother, Forrest. The family enjoys spending time together and supports one another through personal and professional milestones. After Richard’s death, this connection grew even stronger, with Connor often taking on a quiet leadership role within the family. Despite their fame, the Gillilands prefer a life focused on love, resilience, and privacy rather than public display.
Public Perception and Privacy
While many celebrity children attract attention through media and social platforms, Connor Douglas Gilliland has taken the opposite path. He rarely appears in public and has no known presence on social media. This choice has earned him quiet respect from fans of his parents, who admire his ability to maintain strong personal boundaries. His privacy has created curiosity, but also serves as a reminder that not every child of Hollywood chooses the spotlight. His balanced and respectful distance from fame has contributed to his positive public image as a grounded and dignified individual.
Net Worth and Financial Background
There is no public information available regarding Connor Douglas Gilliland’s net worth. However, his parents’ successful acting careers, with a combined estimated net worth of around $10 million, ensured a stable and comfortable upbringing. While Connor likely enjoys financial security, his lifestyle reflects modesty rather than luxury. His independence and preference for privacy suggest that his sense of fulfillment comes from family, not material wealth or fame.
Legacy and Individual Identity
As the son of Jean Smart and Richard Gilliland, Connor naturally carries the weight of a respected Hollywood legacy. However, he has chosen to honor that legacy through quiet strength and authenticity rather than through fame. His life shows a balance between family heritage and personal independence. By valuing privacy, loyalty, and humility, Connor represents a new generation of celebrity children who define success on their own terms. His approach highlights that legacy is not about public recognition but about living with integrity and self-respect.
Current Life and Future Outlook
As of today, Connor Gilliland lives privately, most likely in Los Angeles, where he continues to maintain close ties with his mother and siblings. While little is known about his current professional or personal pursuits, his actions suggest a focus on family, self-growth, and living a meaningful life away from fame. In the future, he may choose to explore creative or charitable work inspired by his parents’ influence. Whatever path he follows, it is clear that he will continue to live according to his values of authenticity, love, and quiet strength.
Conclusion
Connor Douglas Gilliland stands as a reflection of dignity, family loyalty, and personal independence. As the son of two beloved Hollywood actors, he could have easily stepped into the public eye, but instead, he chose a path defined by privacy and sincerity. His life story shows that one can honor a famous family name while creating a unique identity rooted in character and balance. Through his actions, Connor demonstrates that true success lies not in fame or recognition but in living a life guided by integrity, compassion, and purpose.
(FAQs) Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Connor Douglas Gilliland?
Connor Douglas Gilliland is the son of award-winning actress Jean Smart and the late actor Richard Gilliland. Born in Los Angeles in 1989, he grew up surrounded by Hollywood but has chosen to live a quiet, private life away from the spotlight.
2. When was Connor Douglas Gilliland born?
He was born on October 25, 1989, in Los Angeles, California. As of 2025, he is 35 years old and continues to maintain a low profile, focusing on his personal life and family rather than public attention.
3. Who are Connor’s parents?
Connor’s parents are Jean Smart, a highly respected Emmy-winning actress, and Richard Gilliland, a talented actor known for Designing Women and Thirtysomething. They were married from 1987 until Richard’s passing in 2021.
4. Does Connor Douglas Gilliland have any siblings?
Yes, Connor has two siblings — Bonnie Kathleen Gilliland, who was adopted from China in 2004, and Forrest, his younger brother. The three share a close bond and have remained a strong support system for their mother.
5. What does Connor Douglas Gilliland do for a living?
Connor has kept his professional life private, and there are no public details about his career. His decision to stay away from Hollywood suggests a preference for personal independence and a life free from celebrity pressures.
6. How did Connor handle his father’s passing in 2021?
After the death of his father, Richard Gilliland, Connor became a source of strength and comfort for his family. He supported his mother and siblings during the difficult time, showing emotional maturity and deep family loyalty.
7. Is Connor Douglas Gilliland active on social media?
No, Connor does not appear to have any public social media accounts. His avoidance of online exposure aligns with his long-standing commitment to privacy and living a quiet, balanced life.
8. What is Connor Douglas Gilliland’s net worth?
Connor’s personal net worth is not publicly known, as he has chosen to keep his finances private. However, he comes from a successful family, with his parents’ combined net worth estimated at around $10 million, ensuring a stable upbringing.
