Her passing was confirmed by her publicist and close friend Daniel Harary, who shared that she died following a prolonged illness. “Beautiful, energetic, and positive to the end, she will be deeply missed by numerous relatives, friends, and her beloved dogs Benny and Kowalski,” Harary said in a statement.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in Texas, Jacobson graduated from the University of Texas in Austin. Soon after, she moved to Los Angeles to pursue her dream of acting. Her career took off with the title role in the 1977 horror film Nurse Sherri, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey spanning over 40 years.
TV Stardom: Falcon Crest and Beyond
Jacobson gained widespread recognition for her role as Erin Jones in the Emmy-winning CBS drama Falcon Crest. Appearing in 22 episodes from 1985 to 1987, she shared the screen with iconic actors such as Jane Wyman and Robert Foxworth.
At the same time, Jacobson showcased her versatility by starring as Larue Wilson in The New Gidget, a syndicated sequel to the ABC sitcom Gidget. She appeared in eight episodes of the show, balancing two recurring roles seamlessly.
Caryn Richman, Jacobson’s co-star on The New Gidget, described her as a lifelong friend and a joy to work with: “Jill’s comic timing was brilliant. And her enthusiasm and love of life made our time together on set joyful.”
A Sci-Fi Icon and TV Veteran
Jacobson also left her mark on the science fiction genre, appearing in Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Her TV credits extended to popular shows such as Quantum Leap, Days of Our Lives, Castle, Party Down, Who’s the Boss?, and Newhart.
Her work in television cemented her status as a versatile actress, capable of taking on a wide range of roles that resonated with audiences for decades.
Film Career
Beyond television, Jacobson appeared in several films, including Not Just Another Affair, Forbidden Love, Splash, Cats Dancing on Jupiter, Last Look, and Visage. While her TV work defined much of her career, her film roles added depth and diversity to her portfolio.
A Life Beyond Acting
Jacobson wasn’t just an accomplished actress. She was also a passionate advocate for causes she believed in. As a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society, she devoted time to raising awareness and volunteering for the organization.
She was also a familiar face in Los Angeles’ stand-up comedy scene in recent years, showcasing her humor and love for entertaining others.
Her talents extended into her personal life as well. Friends and family remember her as an accomplished cook who loved hosting and feeding loved ones. An avid dog lover, Jacobson supported dog rescue initiatives and cherished all the pets that became part of her life.
A Legacy of Joy and Inspiration
Jill Jacobson will be remembered not only for her on-screen talent but also for her vibrant spirit, generosity, and passion for life. From her iconic roles in beloved TV series to her stand-up comedy and advocacy work, she touched the lives of many.
Her enduring legacy is a reminder of the joy she brought to her craft and to those around her.
