Jaclyn Smith, best known for her role as Kelly Garrett in the 1970s television series "Charlie’s Angels," has released a memoir reflecting on her life and career, revisiting both triumphs and personal challenges. Titled "I Once Knew a Guy Named Charlie: A Memoir," the book offers insights into her early years, rise to fame, and enduring friendships formed through the iconic show.

Smith, 80, spoke from her Beverly Hills home, where she has lived for 35 years, describing the emotional toll of recounting her story, particularly during the audiobook recording process. "I was crying so much sometimes that we’d have to stop," she said, noting the difficulty of revisiting painful memories despite the passage of time.

Her memoir coincides with the 50th anniversary of "Charlie’s Angels," which premiered on ABC on September 22, 1976. Smith was the only original cast member to appear in all five seasons of the series, portraying the glamorous private detective alongside Farrah Fawcett and Kate Jackson. She expressed sadness over Fawcett’s departure after the first season but maintained lifelong friendships with both Fawcett and Cheryl Ladd, who joined the cast in later seasons.

Smith described the whirlwind of fame that came with the show’s success, comparing their sudden celebrity status to that of rock stars and noting the security measures they required. The cast’s bond, she said, was reinforced by their shared experiences both on and off screen.

A significant aspect of Smith’s memoir and public life has been her advocacy for cancer awareness, informed by her own battle with breast cancer diagnosed in 2002. She also detailed the support exchanged among the Angels amid their respective health struggles. Kate Jackson underwent treatment for breast cancer in the late 1980s, Farrah Fawcett battled anal cancer until her death in 2009, and Cheryl Ladd faced breast cancer more recently.

Smith recounted intimate moments of support and friendship, including exchanging wigs with Ladd and the meaningful last gift from Fawcett—a bronze sculpture likely representing Fawcett’s own torso—accompanied by a heartfelt letter reflecting on fear and courage in the face of illness. Smith described Fawcett’s resilience and humor during her illness as deeply inspiring.

The memoir also touches on Smith’s personal life, including her roles as a mother and grandmother, and her longtime marriage to cardiothoracic surgeon Brad Allen. She speaks fondly of her children and grandchildren and reflects on the enduring impact "Charlie’s Angels" has had on her journey, calling it a "very famous chapter" that shaped her life in unexpected ways.

Smith continues to emphasize the importance of early cancer detection and encourages regular screenings, underscoring the fragility of life. "You have to enjoy every moment," she said, highlighting gratitude as a driving theme throughout her memoir and current life.