Karin Jan Smithers, the American actress, remains famed for her role as Bailey Quarters on CBS’ WKRP in Cincinnati (1978–1982). She won hearts as the smart, sweet character in the fictional radio station setting.
Beyond acting, she co-led the early ’70s band Hot Cup of Friends. Her acting spanned 1973 to 1987, including incredible works. Married twice, first to Kipp Whitman, then to actor James Brolin, she’s a proud mother of Molly Elizabeth Brolin.
Now 74, her legacy endures despite retiring in the late ’80s. This article overviews Smithers’ early life, career, marriage, children, and net worth.
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Quick Bio
| Full Name | Karin Jan Smithers |
| Famous as | American Former Actress |
| Date of Birth | July 3, 1949 |
| Place of Birth | North Hollywood, LA, California |
| Age | 74 |
| Profession | Actress/Model |
| Current Residency | Ojai, California, USA |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Ex-Husband | James Brolin, Kipp Whitman |
| Children | Molly Elizabeth Brolin |
| Parents | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Gender | Female |
| Nationality | American |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Sexuality | Straight |
| Height | 5’7’’ |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Net Worth | $6 Million |
The Early Life of Jan Smithers
Jan Smithers was born on July 3, 1949. Karin Jan Smithers spent her early years in Woodland Hills, California, amidst a family of three sisters. Her father practised law, while her mother embraced homemaking.
At 21, she lost her eldest sister in a car accident. Jan pursued her education at ‘William Howard Taft Charter High School’ and later at the ‘California Institute of the Arts’.
Despite her artistic inclinations, she chose acting. A car accident during high school left a lasting scar on her chin, a reminder of her resilience.
What is Jan Smithers’ Age?
Born on July 3, 1949, in Woodland Hills, California, Karin Jan Smithers is 74 years old as of 2023. Holding American nationality, her legacy resonates through the years.
Jan Smithers’ First Marriage
Jan Smithers’ initial marriage was to actor Kipp Whitman, spanning from 1971 to 1972. Their brief union commenced during their time on the show “A Hotel.” Although short-lived, this relationship marked a significant chapter in Jan’s personal journey.
James Brolin: Jan Smithers’ Second Husband
James Brolin, born in Los Angeles on July 18, 1940, is a versatile American actor. With honours like two Golden Globe Awards and an Emmy, his career spans film, TV, and theatre.
He’s graced projects including “The Amityville Horror” (1979), “Marcus Welby, M.D.” (1969-1976), and “Sweet Tooth” (2021).
Brolin’s personal life includes three marriages, notably to actress Jan Smithers and singer-actress Barbra Streisand. Notably, he’s also father to actor Josh Brolin and received a Hollywood Walk of Fame star in 1998.
Jan Smithers and James Brolin’s Marriage
Jan Smithers and James Brolin’s union spanned about nine years. Their love story blossomed after Brolin’s prior marriage to Jane Cameron Agee had ended. Their connection ignited while filming the TV series “Hotel.”
It led to their wedding on June 21, 1986, in Baddeck, Nova Scotia. Jan became stepmother to Brolin’s two children from his earlier marriage while sharing a daughter named Molly Elizabeth Brolin.
Their relationship encountered hurdles, resulting in a divorce filing in 1995. Following their separation, Jan moved forward independently, while James Brolin found love again and married in 1998.
Molly Elizabeth Brolin: Jan Smithers’s Daughter
Molly Elizabeth Brolin is the sole daughter of Jan Smithers and her former spouse, James Brolin. Born on November 28, 1987, in Los Angeles, Molly is approximately 36 years old.
She has contributed as an assistant producer and art director in various projects, including notable titles like “Men in Black 3” (2012) and “Royal Hearts” (2018).
Molly belongs to a family deeply rooted in the industry. She shares glimpses of her life and passions on platforms like Instagram, cultivating a growing online presence.
Jan Smithers’s Career
Jan’s journey into acting was all a coincidence. While watching a friend surf at the beach, she was spotted by photographers seeking a Californian girl for a magazine. This coincidence led her to grace Newsweek’s cover in 1966, jumpstarting her modelling career.
As her star rose, Jan’s mother aided her Hollywood connections. Her acting career commenced with commercials during high school, followed by film appearances like ‘Where the Lilies Bloom‘ (1974).
However, her iconic role as ‘Bailey Quarters’ in ‘WKRP in Cincinnati’ (1978–1982) cemented her fame. Jan’s journey embraced various TV shows, resulting in her final appearance in 1987’s ‘Mr. Nice Guy‘.
The Activism of Jan Smithers
During Molly’s high school years, Jan embarked on a transformative journey with a charitable organization in India. Witnessing the struggles of the less fortunate, she was deeply moved and committed herself to uplifting their lives.
Since that impactful trip, Jan has been steadfastly engaged in philanthropy, radiating positivity and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.
Where is Jan Smithers Now?
Today, Jan focuses on meditation, healing, spirituality, and the environment. She embraced the wisdom of yoga guru Swami Muktananda and the activism of Indian environmentalist Vandana Shiva.
Smithers navigates a path enriched by profound teachings and a deep commitment to personal growth and the planet’s well-being.
Net Worth of Jan Smithers
Jan Smithers’ current net worth remains uncertain since her retirement from acting. But reputable sources suggest it exceeded $6 million at some point. However, information about her present income is unavailable.
