Jaclyn Smith's Loyalty to 'Charlie's Angels' Cost Her a Bond Girl Role
In a candid revelation at PaleyFest's 50th anniversary reunion for 'Charlie's Angels', actress Jaclyn Smith disclosed that she turned down the opportunity to play a Bond girl in the 1979 James Bond film 'Moonraker'. The role of Dr. Holly Goodhead, which ultimately went to Lois Chiles, was offered to Smith, but she chose to honor her existing contract for the hit TV series 'Charlie's Angels'. Smith attributed her decision to deep-rooted values of loyalty and discipline, shaped by her upbringing in Houston, Texas.
Why Smith Chose Contract Over Hollywood Stardom
Speaking at the event, Smith emphasized that her choice was driven by a strong sense of integrity. "I had a contract for 'Charlie's Angels' and, you know, Houston upbringing, you follow your contract," she stated. She further explained that producer Aaron Spelling was the first to give her a major break, and she felt compelled to remain faithful to that commitment. "And Aaron was the first to invite me to the party, so I was honoring my contract," Smith added, highlighting her principled stance in an industry often marked by opportunism.
No Regrets and Other Missed Opportunities
Smith made it clear that she harbors no regrets about missing out on the iconic Bond franchise. "And I think it wasn't meant to be. I think things happen for a reason, I really do, so I have no complaints," she remarked. Beyond 'Moonraker', Smith revealed she passed on other significant film roles. She was considered for Tim Burton's 'Beetlejuice', but the script did not resonate with her at the time. "I know, sad. My husband regrets that," she joked, eliciting laughter from the audience. Smith elaborated that an actor's connection to a script is crucial: "But you read a script, and it doesn't always ring true to you, and it's about what you can bring to it."
Additionally, Smith was once set to star opposite John Travolta in '9½ Weeks', but she felt the project was not the right fit for her. "But I wasn't really right for that one either," she admitted. The role eventually went to Kim Basinger, with Mickey Rourke as her co-star. Smith's reflections underscore a career guided by personal conviction rather than mere fame.
Behind the Scenes of 'Charlie's Angels' Success
The PaleyFest reunion also shed light on the early days of 'Charlie's Angels'. Smith recalled that despite the pilot episode achieving massive ratings, network executives remained skeptical about the show's longevity. "It went through the roof," she said of the pilot, yet executives viewed the success as temporary. Fellow cast member Kate Jackson shared her own disappointment, revealing that repeated schedule conflicts and Aaron Spelling's refusal to release her prevented her from starring in 'Kramer vs. Kramer'. This setback influenced Jackson's decision to leave the series after that season, highlighting the complex dynamics of television contracts in the 1970s.
Smith's story serves as a testament to the importance of loyalty and personal values in Hollywood, where big opportunities often clash with existing commitments. Her unwavering dedication to 'Charlie's Angels' not only defined her career but also set an example of professionalism in the entertainment industry.
