Who is Connor Douglas Gilliland Exploring the Life of Richard Gilliland’s Son

Connor Douglas Gilliland, the son of celebrated actors Richard Gilliland and Jean Smart, was born into a world of fame but has chosen to live a life outside the public eye. While his parents are both well-known figures in Hollywood, Connor has kept a low profile, making only rare appearances in the public eye. This article explores his background, family relationships, and decision to remain private despite growing up surrounded by celebrity.

Quick Bio

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Connor Douglas Gilliland
Date of Birth	1989
Father	Richard Gilliland
Mother	Jean Smart
Siblings	Bonnie Kathleen Gilliland (adoptive sister), Forrest Gilliland (younger brother)
Occupation	Private individual
Famous Relatives	Richard Gilliland (actor), Jean Smart (actress)
Place of Birth	United States
Nationality	American
Known For	Son of Richard Gilliland and Jean Smart

Early Life and Family Background

Born in 1989, Connor Douglas Gilliland grew up in a world of celebrity. His father, Richard Gilliland, was a versatile actor known for his roles in Designing Women, 24, and Justified, while his mother, Jean Smart, is best recognized for her Emmy-winning work in Designing Women, Fargo, and Hacks. Despite his famous lineage, Connor opted for a life away from the public eye, valuing privacy over the glitz of Hollywood.

Growing up with high-profile parents, Connor had unique experiences that shaped his personality. Despite the pressures and glamour of Hollywood, Connor chose not to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. Instead, he chose a quieter life, maintaining a strong sense of individuality and independence from his parents’ fame.

Childhood Experience in Hollywood

Connor’s childhood was far from ordinary. While he attended star-studded events and met famous personalities, he was cautious about attracting attention. Unlike many children of celebrities who feel the pull to follow in their parents’ footsteps, Connor distanced himself from the spotlight, opting to remain private. His early exposure to Hollywood gave him a unique perspective on fame, but it was clear from a young age that he did not wish to follow a public path.

What Is the Current Age of Connor Douglas Gilliland?

As of 2025, Connor is 36 years old. Despite being the son of two famous actors, he has consciously avoided public life, making him a relatively mysterious figure. His choice to live privately stands in contrast to the typical trajectory of children of celebrities, who often seek careers in entertainment.

Physical Appearance and Personal Characteristics

Though Connor has kept a low profile, he is said to resemble both of his famous parents. Standing around six feet tall, he is described as having a calm and grounded demeanor. His personality is often noted to be reserved and introspective, traits likely nurtured by his desire to remain out of the public’s gaze.

Who Are The Parents of Connor Douglas Gilliland?

Connor’s parents, Richard Gilliland and Jean Smart, are both accomplished actors with long careers in television and film. Richard Gilliland’s work in shows like Designing Women and 24 earned him a reputation for professionalism and talent. His marriage to Jean Smart, which began in 1987, was both a personal and professional partnership, marked by a shared love for acting and a deep commitment to their family.

Jean Smart’s career is equally impressive, with numerous accolades, including Emmy Awards for her roles in Designing Women and Hacks. Despite their fame, both parents have emphasized the importance of family and have remained dedicated to raising their children, including Connor, with love and attention.

Father: Richard Gilliland

Richard Gilliland’s career spanned decades, with roles in both television and film. He was known for his charm and ability to bring depth to his characters. His sudden passing in 2021 deeply affected Connor, as Richard had been a significant influence on his son’s life. The loss of his father has further shaped Connor’s perspective on life, and his bond with his family, especially his mother and siblings, has only strengthened since then.

Mother: Jean Smart

Jean Smart’s career is defined by versatility and longevity. Known for her role in Designing Women, Smart has taken on various roles across television and film, receiving critical acclaim and multiple Emmy Awards. As a mother, Jean Smart has balanced her career with raising her children, including Connor. She is known for her strong family values and remains a key figure in Connor’s life, providing him with guidance and support.

Connor’s Siblings

Connor has two siblings: an adoptive sister, Bonnie Kathleen Gilliland, and a younger brother, Forrest Gilliland. While Bonnie remains largely out of the public eye, she shares a close relationship with Connor. Forrest, Connor’s younger brother, also plays a significant role in his life. The Gilliland brothers share a profound bond, supporting each other through the challenges that come with being part of a famous family.

Richard Gilliland’s Death in 2021

The death of Richard Gilliland in 2021 was a profound loss for Connor and the entire family. Richard had been a guiding figure in Connor’s life, and his passing profoundly impacted him. His death made Connor even more determined to maintain a private life, away from the scrutiny of the media.

Career and Public Life: Choosing Privacy Over Fame

Unlike many children of famous individuals who feel compelled to enter the entertainment industry, Connor chose a different path. He has not pursued acting or any other public-facing career. Instead, he has embraced privacy, opting for a life away from the pressures and attention that come with fame. This decision has allowed him to live a grounded life, free from the public’s gaze.

Public Perception and Media Relations

Connor’s decision to remain private has made him somewhat of an enigma. While the media and fans have shown curiosity about his life, he continues to maintain a low profile. Connor’s decision to shun public attention has garnered him both respect and intrigue, as people perceive him as someone who prioritizes privacy over fame.

Legacy and Individual Identity

Growing up in the shadow of two highly successful parents, Connor has worked hard to carve out his identity. While his family’s legacy is undeniable, he has chosen to live independently of it. His decision to avoid the entertainment industry speaks to his desire to create his own path and live life on his terms.

Current Life and Future Outlook

As of now, Connor continues to live privately. It is unclear what the future holds for him, but it is likely that he will continue to enjoy a life away from public attention. Whether he will pursue new interests or simply maintain his current lifestyle, Connor’s future remains a mystery, and that is precisely how he likes it.

Net Worth and Financial Background

While his parents’ successful careers have undoubtedly provided Connor with financial security, his private life means that his own net worth is difficult to estimate. However, as the son of Jean Smart and Richard Gilliland, he likely enjoys a comfortable financial foundation.

Conclusion

Connor Douglas Gilliland chooses to embrace privacy over the spotlight. Despite being born into a family of prominent actors, he has chosen a path that keeps him away from public attention. His relationship with his parents and siblings remains a central part of his life, and his story serves as a reminder that not all children of celebrities seek fame. Connor has successfully carved out his own identity, and while his life remains largely private, it is clear that he values the privacy he has chosen over the fame that others might have pursued.