Remembering Jill Jacobson: A Talented Actress Gone Too Soon

Jill Jacobson, the talented actress known for her iconic roles in television shows such as Falcon Crest and The New Gidget, passed away on December 8, 2023, at the age of 70. Her passing was confirmed by her publicist and friend, Daniel Harary, who noted that she succumbed to a long illness at Cedars-Sinais Culver West Health Center.

Early Life and Education

Born and raised in Texas, Jill grew up in Beaumont and Dallas. She earned a B.S. in Radio, TV, and Film Performance from the University of Texas in Austin before making the big move to Los Angeles to pursue her acting dreams. One of her earliest roles was in the cult classic Nurse Sherri in 1977, showcasing her range and talent right from the start.

Breakthrough Roles

Jill's most noteworthy television roles included playing the scheming private detective Erin Jones for 22 episodes in Falcon Crest from 1985 to 1987, where she endeared herself to audiences as part of a wealthy California wine family's drama. Concurrently, she portrayed Larue Wilson on The New Gidget, a charming sequel to the 1960s classic, from 1986 to 1988. Such dual roles at a time highlighted her exceptional talent and versatility.

Jacobson's contributions to the Star Trek franchise were also significant; she appeared in both Star Trek: The Next Generation in 1989 and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine in 1996. Her co-stars often remarked on her brilliant comic timing and joyous spirit. Caryn Richman, her co-star on The New Gidget, praised her enthusiasm and noted how much fun they had together on set.

A Diverse Career

Beyond her iconic roles in soap operas and sitcoms, Jill had a rich career in television, appearing in shows like Crazy Like a Fox, Murphy Brown, and Quantum Leap. In addition, her film credits included appearances in Ron Howard’s Splash and a variety of television movies such as Forbidden Love and Bad Georgia Road. Jacobson was also a familiar face at venues like Los Angeles' The Improv and The Comedy Store, where she showcased her talent for stand-up comedy.

As she continued to entertain, Jill remained an advocate for cancer awareness, volunteering with the American Cancer Society and making significant contributions through her spokesperson roles.

Remembering Jill

Jill Jacobson's passing is a significant loss to Hollywood and her many fans worldwide. Her unique blend of talent, vigor, and charisma has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. She is survived by numerous relatives, friends, and, in a touching mention, her beloved dogs, Benny and Kowalski.

Jill's last credited performance was in the 2020 series Etheria, but her legacy does not reside solely in her on-screen appearances. Her humor, warmth, and resilience resonate through the memories and lives she touched over her storied career.

As we honor her memory, we remember Jill not just as an actress but as a vibrant spirit who brought joy and laughter to many. Thank you, Jill, for the countless performances and the beautiful memories. You will be deeply missed.