Janet Smollett is a remarkable American woman who has gained widespread recognition as the mother of six talented children who have all made their mark in the entertainment industry. While her children have become household names in Hollywood, Janet herself has lived an extraordinary life filled with activism, dedication, and unconditional love for her family. She is best known as the mother of famous actors Jussie Smollett and Jurnee Smollett, but her story goes far beyond just being a celebrity mom. Janet Smollett has a rich history that includes her involvement with the Black Panther Party during her younger years, her interracial marriage to Joel Smollett, and her tireless efforts to raise six successful children in a world that was not always kind to mixed-race families. Her life story is one of courage, strength, and unwavering determination that continues to inspire many people around the world.
The Smollett family has become one of the most recognizable families in American entertainment, and Janet Smollett is the foundation upon which this family was built. She has dedicated her entire life to supporting her children’s dreams and ensuring they had every opportunity to succeed. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout her life, including racial discrimination and the loss of her beloved husband, Janet has remained a pillar of strength for her family. Her story is one that deserves to be told and celebrated.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Janet Smollett (née Harris) |
|---|---|
| Birth Year | 1954 (approximately) |
| Age | Around 71-72 years old |
| Birthplace | United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American and Jewish |
| Husband | Joel Smollett (deceased 2015) |
| Children | 6 (Jojo, Jazz, Jussie, Jurnee, Jake, Jocqui) |
| Known For | Mother of the Smollett siblings |
| Affiliation | Former Black Panther Party member |
| Profession | Homemaker and Activist |
Early Life
Janet Smollett was born in the United States during the mid-1950s. She grew up during a time of significant social change in America, witnessing firsthand the civil rights movement and the fight for equality. Her early life experiences shaped her into the strong and determined woman she would become. Janet’s upbringing instilled in her a deep sense of justice and a passion for standing up for what is right, values that she would later pass on to her children.
Growing up as an African-American woman in America during the 1950s and 1960s was not easy. Janet experienced the harsh realities of segregation and discrimination, which only fueled her desire to fight for change. These formative years had a profound impact on her worldview and eventually led her to become involved in activist movements that were fighting for civil rights and equality for all people.
Janet Smollett Parents
Information about Janet Smollett’s parents remains relatively private, as she has chosen to keep details about her extended family out of the public eye. What is known is that Janet comes from an African-American background and was raised in a family that valued education, hard work, and community involvement. Her parents likely played a significant role in shaping her character and instilling the values that she would later pass on to her own children.
The influence of Janet’s parents can be seen in the way she raised her own family. She emphasized the importance of staying true to one’s roots while also pursuing one’s dreams. This balance between cultural identity and personal ambition became a cornerstone of the Smollett family philosophy.
Black Panther Connection
One of the most fascinating aspects of Janet Smollett’s life is her reported connection to the Black Panther Party. During the late 1960s and early 1970s, the Black Panther Party was at the forefront of the civil rights movement, fighting for the rights of African Americans and challenging systemic racism in the United States. Janet Smollett was reportedly involved with this revolutionary organization during her younger years, participating in community programs and activism efforts.
The Black Panther Party was known for its community outreach programs, including free breakfast programs for children, health clinics, and educational initiatives. Janet’s involvement with the organization reflects her commitment to social justice and her desire to make a difference in her community. This activist spirit has been passed down to her children, many of whom have used their platforms to speak out on social issues and advocate for change. The influence of her Black Panther roots can be seen in the way the Smollett family approaches issues of racial justice and equality.
Marriage and Love Story
Who Is Janet Smollett Married To?
Janet Smollett was married to Joel Smollett, a man of Jewish and Polish descent. Their marriage was a beautiful example of love transcending racial and cultural boundaries during a time when interracial marriages were still controversial in many parts of America. Joel and Janet Smollett built a life together that was founded on mutual respect, love, and a shared commitment to raising their children to be confident and successful individuals.
Joel Smollett was born into a Jewish family with roots in Poland and Russia. His decision to marry Janet, an African-American woman, was a testament to the power of love over societal prejudices. Together, they created a multicultural household that celebrated both their African-American and Jewish heritages, giving their children a rich and diverse cultural foundation.
Joel and Janet Smollett
The love story of Joel and Janet Smollett is one that spans several decades. They met during a time when interracial relationships faced significant opposition, but their love for each other was stronger than any obstacle they encountered. Joel and Janet Smollett were partners in every sense of the word, supporting each other through the challenges of raising a large family while also pursuing their own individual goals.
Joel Smollett worked as a cable splicer while also being involved in the entertainment industry. He supported his children’s acting careers and was a constant source of encouragement for the entire family. Tragically, Joel passed away in January 2015 after battling cancer, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication that continues to inspire the Smollett family to this day. His death was a devastating loss for Janet and their children, but they have honored his memory by continuing to pursue excellence in everything they do.
Children
Janet Smollett is the proud mother of six children, all of whom have achieved success in the entertainment industry. This remarkable achievement is a testament to her dedication as a mother and her ability to nurture the talents of each of her children. The Smollett siblings have become one of the most famous families in Hollywood, and Janet’s influence can be seen in each of their careers.
The six Smollett children are:
- Jojo Smollett – The eldest child who has worked as an actor and producer
- Jazz Smollett – An actress known for her work in television and film
- Jussie Smollett – A well-known actor and singer famous for his role in “Empire”
- Jurnee Smollett – An acclaimed actress known for “Lovecraft Country” and “Birds of Prey”
- Jake Smollett – An actor and chef who has appeared in various productions
- Jocqui Smollett – The youngest child who has also pursued acting
Janet raised all six children to embrace their mixed heritage and to be proud of who they are. She encouraged them to pursue their passions and provided them with the support they needed to succeed in the competitive world of entertainment.
Famous Children
Jussie Smollett
Jussie Smollett is perhaps the most well-known of Janet’s children, having gained fame for his role as Jamal Lyon in the hit television series “Empire.” He is a talented actor and singer who has won numerous awards for his work. Jussie has been open about his sexuality and has become an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. However, his career faced significant challenges following a controversial incident in 2019 that made national headlines.
Jurnee Smollett
Jurnee Smollett is an incredibly talented actress who has been acting since childhood. She gained recognition for her role in the film “Eve’s Bayou” and has since appeared in numerous successful projects, including “Lovecraft Country” and “Birds of Prey.” Jurnee is considered one of the most talented actresses of her generation and has won several awards for her performances.
Other Siblings
The other Smollett siblings have also found success in entertainment. Jazz Smollett has worked as an actress and has co-authored a cookbook with her siblings. Jake Smollett has pursued both acting and culinary arts, becoming a skilled chef. Jojo Smollett has worked behind the scenes as a producer, while Jocqui Smollett has appeared in various acting projects. Together, the siblings have maintained close family ties and often support each other’s endeavors.
Career and Work
While Janet Smollett is primarily known for being a devoted mother, she has also had her own career and professional interests. She dedicated much of her life to raising her children and supporting their acting careers, which was a full-time job in itself. Managing the careers of six child actors required incredible organizational skills, dedication, and a deep understanding of the entertainment industry.
Janet worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure her children had access to auditions, acting classes, and opportunities that would help them develop their talents. Her role as a stage mother was crucial to the success of the Smollett siblings, and without her guidance and support, they may not have achieved the level of success they enjoy today.
Net Worth
The exact net worth of Janet Smollett is not publicly known, as she has maintained a relatively private life compared to her famous children. However, given the success of her children in the entertainment industry, it is safe to assume that Janet lives comfortably. Her children have achieved significant financial success through their acting careers, and they have undoubtedly provided for their mother who sacrificed so much to help them succeed.
The combined net worth of the Smollett siblings is estimated to be in the millions of dollars, with Jussie and Jurnee being the highest earners in the family. While Janet may not have accumulated wealth through her own career, her investment in her children’s futures has paid off tremendously.
Personal Life
Janet Smollett has led a life defined by her devotion to her family and her commitment to her values. After the death of her husband Joel in 2015, Janet has remained a central figure in the lives of her children, providing support and guidance through both their triumphs and challenges. She has maintained a relatively low profile, preferring to stay out of the spotlight while her children pursue their careers.
Janet’s personal life is characterized by her strong faith, her love for her family, and her continued commitment to the values she developed during her years of activism. She has been a source of strength for the Smollett family, particularly during difficult times when her children faced public scrutiny and challenges.
Activism and Values
Janet Smollett’s involvement with the Black Panther Party during her youth reflects her deep commitment to social justice and equality. These values have been passed down to her children, who have all used their platforms to speak out on issues of racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and other social causes. The Smollett family is known for their activism and their willingness to use their fame to advocate for positive change.
Janet taught her children the importance of standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult. This lesson has guided the Smollett siblings throughout their careers and has helped them become not just successful entertainers, but also influential voices in the fight for equality.
Challenges and Resilience
The Smollett family has faced numerous challenges over the years, including the loss of Joel Smollett and various public controversies involving her children. Through it all, Janet has remained a pillar of strength and resilience, supporting her family and helping them navigate difficult situations. Her ability to maintain her composure and continue supporting her children during challenging times is a testament to her character.
The most significant challenge came in 2019 when Jussie Smollett faced legal troubles related to an alleged hate crime incident. Despite the controversy and public scrutiny, Janet stood by her son and continued to offer him unconditional support. This unwavering loyalty is a hallmark of Janet’s character and reflects the deep bonds within the Smollett family.
Family Legacy
The legacy of Janet Smollett extends far beyond her own accomplishments. She has created a family dynasty that continues to make an impact on the entertainment industry and beyond. Her children have achieved remarkable success, and they all credit their mother for providing them with the foundation they needed to succeed. The Smollett family legacy is one of talent, resilience, and unwavering family bonds.
Janet’s legacy also includes her contribution to breaking down barriers for mixed-race families and interracial couples. Her marriage to Joel Smollett and the successful raising of their six children demonstrated that love and dedication can overcome societal prejudices and create something beautiful.
Current Life
Today, Janet Smollett continues to live a private life while remaining close to her children and grandchildren. She has stepped back from the public eye but remains an important figure in the lives of her family members. Janet enjoys spending time with her loved ones and watching her children continue to achieve success in their various endeavors.
Despite being in her early seventies, Janet remains active and engaged with her family. She has reportedly become a grandmother as some of her children have started families of their own, adding a new chapter to the Smollett family story.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Janet Smollett married to?
Janet Smollett was married to Joel Smollett, a Jewish-American man of Polish and Russian descent. They were married for many years until Joel’s death in January 2015 from cancer. Their marriage was an example of love transcending racial boundaries.
How many children does Janet Smollett have?
Janet Smollett has six children: Jojo, Jazz, Jussie, Jurnee, Jake, and Jocqui Smollett. All six children have pursued careers in the entertainment industry.
Was Janet Smollett involved with the Black Panther Party?
Yes, Janet Smollett was reportedly involved with the Black Panther Party during her younger years. This involvement reflects her commitment to civil rights and social justice.
What is Janet Smollett’s ethnicity?
Janet Smollett is African-American. She married Joel Smollett, who was Jewish, giving their children a mixed heritage that includes both African-American and Jewish backgrounds.
How old is Janet Smollett?
Janet Smollett is approximately 71-72 years old, having been born in the mid-1950s.
What is Janet Smollett’s net worth?
Janet Smollett’s exact net worth is not publicly known. However, her children have achieved significant financial success in the entertainment industry.
Main Interesting Facts
• Janet Smollett raised all six of her children to become successful actors in Hollywood, making the Smollett family one of the most talented families in entertainment history.
• She was reportedly involved with the Black Panther Party during the civil rights movement, demonstrating her commitment to social justice from a young age.
• Janet’s interracial marriage to Joel Smollett during a time of significant racial tension in America showed her courage and belief in love over prejudice.
Conclusion
Janet Smollett is a remarkable woman whose life story encompasses activism, love, dedication, and the raising of one of Hollywood’s most talented families. From her involvement with the Black Panther Party to her role as a devoted mother and wife, Janet has lived a life defined by her values and her commitment to her family. While she may prefer to stay out of the spotlight, her influence on her children and her contribution to their success cannot be overstated. Janet Smollett’s legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, reminding us of the power of love, dedication, and unwavering support in helping our loved ones achieve their dreams.
