Jaclyn Smith has shared a surprising chapter of her marriage to her husband, Brad Allen, revealing that the couple spent 17 years living in different states before finally building a life together under one roof.
The Charlie’s Angels star opened up about their unusual relationship journey, explaining that distance never weakened their bond. Instead, the years apart helped them appreciate their time together even more. Smith says that after everything they went through, she feels she “finally got it right” with Allen.
Their decades-long relationship has become one of the most meaningful parts of Smith’s personal life, especially after the challenges she experienced in previous marriages.
How Jaclyn Smith Met Brad Allen
Jaclyn Smith first met Brad Allen in 1991 when he was involved in helping with her father’s heart surgery. At the time, neither of them knew that the meeting would eventually lead to a lifelong partnership.
Allen, a heart surgeon, and Smith developed a relationship over time before getting married in 1997. Their connection grew through patience, trust, and shared values.
Unlike many Hollywood relationships built around public attention, Smith and Allen have maintained a relatively private life focused on family and commitment.
Why Jaclyn Smith and Brad Allen Lived Apart for 17 Years
One of the most unusual parts of their marriage was spending nearly half of their relationship living in separate states.
After Allen accepted a job opportunity in Chicago, he remained there while Smith continued living in Los Angeles with her children. The couple managed the distance through regular visits, making their limited time together meaningful.
Smith explained that having only short periods together encouraged them to focus on quality time rather than everyday routines. After 17 years of long-distance marriage, they finally moved in together permanently in 2009.
Their story shows that relationships can look different depending on circumstances. For Smith and Allen, commitment mattered more than geography.
Brad Allen Supported Jaclyn Smith During Her Cancer Journey
During one of the most difficult periods of her life, Brad Allen remained by Smith’s side.
Smith was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2002 and underwent treatment, including a lumpectomy and radiation. She has since been cancer-free and has spoken about the importance of support from loved ones during challenging moments.
The experience strengthened their relationship and became another example of the partnership they built over many years.
Jaclyn Smith’s Previous Marriages
Before finding lasting happiness with Brad Allen, Jaclyn Smith was married three times.
Her first marriages to actors Roger Davis and Dennis Cole ended after relationship struggles, and Smith has said those experiences taught her important lessons about love and life.
Her third marriage was to cinematographer Anthony B. Richmond. The couple married in 1981 and welcomed two children, Gaston and Spencer-Margaret, before divorcing in 1989. Smith has spoken positively about the family they created together, while also acknowledging the challenges that led to their separation.
Jaclyn Smith’s Family Life With Brad Allen
Family has always been an important part of Jaclyn Smith’s life.
Brad Allen became a supportive stepfather to Smith’s children from her previous marriage. Smith has praised his role in her family and describes him as a devoted husband and father figure.
After years of balancing careers, distance, and family responsibilities, Smith says their life together today feels peaceful and fulfilling.
Jaclyn Smith and Brad Allen Today
Today, Jaclyn Smith and Brad Allen continue to enjoy their marriage after decades together.
Their relationship stands out because it was built through patience and resilience. From living in different states for years to supporting each other through personal challenges, the couple’s story reflects a different side of celebrity relationships.
For Smith, finding lasting love was not about having a perfect journey. It was about learning from the past and appreciating the partnership she has now.
Final Thoughts
Jaclyn Smith and Brad Allen’s marriage is a reminder that strong relationships can survive unusual circumstances. Their 17 years apart could have created distance between them, but instead, they found ways to stay connected.