Acclaimed actress Jean Smart, best known for her role in the hit series Hacks, made a stylish public appearance with her new boyfriend, actor Joe Pacheco, at the 2026 Roundabout Theatre Company Gala in New York on Monday evening. The couple, who have been romantically linked since at least late 2024, looked radiant and happy as they smiled at each other while walking arm-in-arm on the red carpet.
A Matching Black Ensemble for the Occasion
The pair coordinated their outfits perfectly for the glamorous event, both opting for elegant black attire. Smart, 74, wore a stunning floor-length gown with a round neckline, featuring delicate ruffles adorning the waistline, hem, and sleeves. Pacheco complemented her look with a classic black suit and tie, paired with a crisp white shirt, showcasing a sophisticated and unified style.
Joe Pacheco's Acting Career and Background
Joe Pacheco is a Boston-based actor with a diverse portfolio in television and film. He is perhaps most recognized for his role as Bart Daley on the popular series The Morning Show, where he starred alongside Hollywood heavyweights Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon. His other notable credits include appearances in Major Crimes, Bent, and 100 Code, demonstrating his versatility across different genres.
From Golden Globes to Social Media Confirmations
The relationship between Smart and Pacheco has been gradually revealed through various public moments. In January, during her acceptance speech for winning her second Golden Globe award for Hacks, Smart gave a heartfelt shoutout to her boyfriend, referring to him as "Joe" and acknowledging him as part of her support system. She expressed deep gratitude, stating, "I have the best bosses, I have the best showrunners, I have the best cast, led by the brilliant Hannah Einbinder, and I have… my kids, Joe, I mean, I am just surrounded by so much support."
Further confirmation of their relationship comes from social media, with Instagram posts dating back to late 2024 showing them together, and Pacheco updating his Facebook status to "in a relationship." This public debut at the gala solidifies their bond in the spotlight.
Jean Smart's Previous Marriage and Personal Loss
Jean Smart was previously married to actor Richard Gilliland for 35 years, a union that ended tragically with his sudden death from a heart condition in 2021 at the age of 71. In a 2024 interview on Who's Talking to Chris Wallace?, Smart reflected on the profound impact of his passing, describing it as "such a shock" and "unexpected." She shared, "Losing your mate of 35 years—I mean, literally half my life I lived with him is just kind of indescribable. And it just, you go through this period of thinking it's just not real. It's just this isn't real. You know? This just doesn't make any sense."
The couple shared two sons: Connor Gilliland, now 36, and Forrest Gilliland, 17, who continue to be a central part of Smart's life.
The Final Season of Hacks Approaches
Amidst these personal developments, Jean Smart's professional life is also at a pivotal point. Hacks, the HBO Max dark-comedy drama where she stars as stand-up comedienne Deborah Vance, is set to conclude with its fifth season. The show, which also features Hannah Einbinder as Ava Daniels, Deborah's young comedy writer, explores the dynamics of their professional partnership and personal lives within the comedy industry.
Einbinder recently commented on the upcoming final season, describing the atmosphere on set as "bittersweet" since the cast knows it will be their last time working together on the series. She told Live From E!: 2025 Emmys host Heather McMahan, "I think it will feel different. We're going to start next week, and knowing it's the last season is really bittersweet. But I think it's right. It's nice to do something as many times as it should be done [and] not overstay your welcome. Rip it and do it and laugh and cry."
This blend of personal joy and professional transition marks an exciting chapter for Jean Smart, as she navigates new love while bidding farewell to a beloved television role.
