Jill Jacobson, Renowned 'Star Trek' Actress and 'Splash' Star, Dies at 70
A versatile performer who brought charm and wit to dramatic and comedic roles has left an indelible mark on television history.
According to TheWrap, Jill Jacobson, known for her memorable appearances in "Star Trek: The Next Generation" and the film "Splash," passed away on December 8 at Cedars-Sinai-affiliated Culver West Health Center in Los Angeles after battling a prolonged illness.
The accomplished actress, affectionately known as "Jilly" to her close friends, built an impressive career spanning multiple decades in television and film.
Her journey began after graduating from The University of Texas in Austin with a BS in Radio-TV-Film/Performance, leading her to Los Angeles, where she would eventually make her mark in the entertainment industry.
Early Career and Breakthrough Roles
Jacobson's entry into Hollywood came through her starring role in the cult classic film "Nurse Sherri." This pivotal performance opened doors to numerous opportunities in both television and film productions.
Her versatility as a performer allowed her to tackle diverse roles across different genres, from science fiction to situation comedies.
The talented actress demonstrated her range by simultaneously maintaining recurring roles on two popular television series: "Falcon Crest" and "The New Gidget."
This accomplishment highlighted her ability to handle multiple complex characters while maintaining distinct performances for each show.
Her work ethic and dedication to her craft earned her the respect of colleagues throughout the industry. Many of her professional relationships evolved into lasting friendships, a testament to her genuine and warm personality.
Notable Television Appearances and Film Work
Throughout her career, Jacobson accumulated an impressive list of television credits that showcased her versatility as an actress.
Her appearances on "Star Trek: The Next Generation" and "Deep Space Nine" endeared her to science fiction fans, while roles in popular series like "Hung," "Newhart," "Castle," and "Who's the Boss?" demonstrated her comedic abilities.
Her co-star from "The New Gidget," Caryn Richman, shared her thoughts about working with Jacobson:
Jill's comic timing was brilliant. And her enthusiasm and love of life made our time together on set joyful.
The actress's television resume extended to other successful shows, including "Crazy Like a Fox," "Quantum Leap," "Arliss," and "Murphy Brown." Her film career was equally noteworthy, featuring a role in Ron Howard's "Splash" alongside various leading roles in independent films.
Commitment to Performance and Community Service
In her later years, Jacobson continued to explore new creative outlets, taking to the stage at renowned Los Angeles comedy venues The Improv and The Comedy Store.
Her dedication to performance arts remained strong throughout her life, as evidenced by her multiple stage appearances and venture into stand-up comedy.
Beyond her artistic endeavors, Jacobson demonstrated a strong commitment to community service. Her volunteer work with the American Cancer Society earned her recognition and awards, highlighting her dedication to causes beyond the entertainment industry.
She is survived by numerous relatives, friends, and her beloved dogs, Benny and Kowalski. While no memorial plans have been announced, her impact on the television industry and those who knew her personally will be remembered fondly.
Legacy and Final Farewell
Jill Jacobson's passing marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned multiple decades and genres in the entertainment industry. The actress, who began her journey at the University of Texas and went on to become a familiar face on television, left behind a legacy of versatile performances and genuine connections.