Jill Goodacre, known for her iconic status as a model and her appearance in the early catalogs of Victoria’s Secret, is much more than just a famous face. Her life took a romantic turn when she met Harry Connick Jr., a singer and actor, during the filming of “Memphis Belle” in 1990. This encounter marked the beginning of a remarkable love story that has spanned over three decades. Today, Jill is recognized not only for her past career but also for her enduring marriage to Harry and her role as a mother to their three daughters.
Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jill Goodacre |
| Date of Birth | March 29, 1965 |
| Age | 59 (as of 2024) |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Former Model, Actress |
| Notable Work | Victoria’s Secret Model, Guest Appearance on “Friends” |
| Spouse | Harry Connick Jr. (Married in 1994) |
| Children | Three daughters: Georgia Tatum, Sara Kate, Charlotte |
| Mother | Glenna Goodacre (Sculptor) |
| Health | Breast Cancer Survivor (In Remission Since 2017) |
| Residence | New Orleans, Louisiana |
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Jill Goodacre was born into a family with a strong artistic background. Her mother, Glenna Goodacre, was a renowned sculptor celebrated for her public monuments, including the Vietnam Women’s Memorial in Washington, D.C., and the Irish Famine Memorial in Philadelphia. Growing up in such a creative environment, Jill was inspired to pursue a career in the arts, which led her to the world of modeling.
In the 1980s, Jill became one of the original faces of Victoria’s Secret, before the brand’s fashion shows became global spectacles. She quickly became a recognizable figure, gracing the covers of magazines like Cosmopolitan and becoming synonymous with the early image of Victoria’s Secret, alongside other supermodels of the time. Her career on the runway and in front of the camera cemented her status as a fashion icon.
A Memorable Appearance on “Friends”
In addition to her modeling career, Jill Goodacre made a memorable cameo on the popular sitcom “Friends” in 1994. Appearing as herself in the episode “The One With the Blackout,” Jill shared the screen with Chandler Bing, played by Matthew Perry. The storyline, where Chandler finds himself trapped in an ATM vestibule with the supermodel during a city-wide power outage, has since become one of the most iconic moments of the show’s first season. This guest appearance showcased her sense of humor and added another layer to her multifaceted career.
Meeting Harry Connick Jr. and the Start of a Love Story
Jill’s life took a romantic turn when she met Harry Connick Jr. in 1990 at a hotel in Los Angeles. Harry, who was only 22 at the time, was immediately taken by Jill’s presence and introduced himself. According to Harry, Jill had a memorable handshake, a moment that would stay with him forever. What Harry did not know at the time was that Jill had felt a similar spark; she called her mother that very night and declared she had met the man she would marry.
This initial encounter blossomed into a deep connection, and a year later, Harry wrote the song “Jill” for his album “Blue Light, Red Light,” expressing his affection for her. Their relationship continued to grow, leading to their engagement and eventual wedding on April 16, 1994, at the St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans, Harry’s hometown.
Building a Family Together
Two years after their marriage, Jill and Harry welcomed their first daughter, Georgia Tatum, in 1996. The couple expanded their family further with the birth of their second daughter, Sara Kate, in 1997, and their youngest, Charlotte, in 2002. Despite their public lives, the Connick family has managed to maintain a unique and close relationship. According to Harry, their daughters never went through the typical “embarrassing parent” phase; instead, they have always shared a strong, supportive bond.
Jill’s Battle with Breast Cancer
In October 2012, Jill Goodacre’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with Stage 1 invasive ductal carcinoma during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. She underwent a lumpectomy followed by radiation therapy and has been in remission since 2017. Throughout her battle with cancer, Jill remained candid about her experiences, sharing the challenges of her diagnosis and the side effects of her medication, which impacted her physically and emotionally. Despite these struggles, her resilience and courage have been a source of inspiration for many.
Harry, who lost his mother to ovarian cancer at a young age, found himself facing the fear of losing his wife. He expressed his deep love and admiration for Jill, emphasizing his gratitude for the chance to continue their journey together.
Remembering Glenna Goodacre
Jill’s mother, Glenna Goodacre, passed away in 2020 at the age of 80. Glenna was a celebrated sculptor whose works, such as the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, left a lasting impact on public art. Her passing was a significant loss for Jill and her family. In a heartfelt tribute, Harry expressed how deeply Glenna had influenced their family, and Jill described her mother as both a hero and a best friend. Glenna’s legacy continues to live on through her artwork and the memories cherished by her family.
The Key to a Lasting Marriage
Jill and Harry Connick Jr. celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary in April 2024. Harry often credits the strength of their marriage to their shared values, deep friendship, and mutual respect. Jill, too, has emphasized the importance of understanding and shared goals in their relationship. They have consistently supported each other through both the highs and lows of life, creating a strong foundation built on love, trust, and companionship.
Jill Goodacre Today
Today, Jill Goodacre continues to be a beloved figure, not just as a former model or an actress but as a woman who has gracefully navigated life’s many challenges. Her journey is a testament to resilience, love, and the enduring power of family.