Jill Goodacre, once a renowned model and actress, found herself in the spotlight not only for her professional achievements but also for her enduring marriage to singer and actor Harry Connick Jr. Their relationship, which has lasted for more than three decades, is a tale of chance, mutual respect, and an unwavering commitment to each other. Here’s a closer look at Jill Goodacre’s life, career, and her deep bond with Harry Connick Jr.
Summary:
- Name: Jill Goodacre
- Profession: Former Victoria’s Secret model and actress
- Known for: Pioneering work as a Victoria’s Secret model, cameo in Friends
- Marriage: Married to Harry Connick Jr. since April 16, 1994
- Children: Three daughters – Georgia Tatum (born 1996), Sara Kate (born 1997), Charlotte (born 2002)
- Health: Breast cancer survivor (diagnosed in 2012, in remission since 2017)
- Mother: Glenna Goodacre, a renowned sculptor and artist
- Marriage dynamic: Strong foundation built on friendship, shared values, and mutual respect
A Rising Star in the Modeling World
Before becoming widely known as Harry Connick Jr.’s wife, Jill Goodacre carved a name for herself in the modeling industry. During the 1980s, she was one of the original Victoria’s Secret catalog models, helping to define the brand’s image in its early days. With her striking looks and confident demeanor, Jill became one of the most recognizable faces for Victoria’s Secret, often appearing alongside other legendary models like Stephanie Seymour. Her work in modeling also led her to grace the cover of magazines like Cosmopolitan, further cementing her status as a prominent figure in the fashion world.
A Memorable Cameo on “Friends”
Jill Goodacre’s acting career included a memorable cameo on the popular TV show Friends. In 1994, she appeared as herself in Season 1, Episode 7, titled “The One With the Blackout.” During this episode, Jill found herself stuck in an ATM vestibule with Chandler Bing, played by Matthew Perry, during a citywide blackout. The character’s nervous attempts to impress her, coupled with Jill’s natural charm, made the episode a fan favorite. Her appearance on Friends remains one of her most well-known acting roles and adds a unique highlight to her diverse career.
A Chance Meeting That Changed Everything
Jill Goodacre and Harry Connick Jr.’s love story began with a serendipitous encounter in 1990. Harry, then 22 and filming the movie Memphis Belle, was staying at a hotel in Los Angeles when he first spotted Jill by the pool. Intrigued, he introduced himself, and Jill’s warm reception left an immediate impression on him. Unknown to Harry at the time, Jill was equally struck by their meeting. That very night, she confided to her mother that she had met the man she would marry. Their connection was undeniable, and it wasn’t long before they began dating.
A year into their relationship, Harry, an accomplished musician, wrote the song “Jill” in honor of his girlfriend, a gesture that spoke to the depth of his feelings. This romantic dedication was part of his Grammy-nominated album, Blue Light, Red Light. The couple got engaged soon after and were married on April 16, 1994, in a ceremony at the St. Louis Cathedral in Harry’s hometown of New Orleans. The wedding marked the beginning of a partnership that has withstood the test of time, with both crediting their shared values and strong communication for their enduring love.
Celebrating Over 30 Years of Marriage
As of April 2024, Harry and Jill celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary, a milestone that speaks volumes about their commitment to each other. Over the years, they have often shared insights into their relationship, describing a foundation built on friendship, mutual respect, and shared life goals. In an interview with PEOPLE in 2017, Harry revealed that Jill is still a mystery to him, and that he remains deeply interested in who she is and what she thinks. This ongoing curiosity, he believes, has kept their relationship fresh and vibrant.
Jill, too, has spoken about their strong bond, emphasizing the importance of shared values and family priorities. She believes that their similar outlooks on life, including their morals and goals, have been crucial to their lasting union. Their relationship has been marked by a deep sense of partnership, with Harry often describing Jill as his best friend and someone he cannot imagine his life without.
Raising a Family Together
Jill and Harry’s partnership extends beyond their marriage; they are also dedicated parents to their three daughters: Georgia Tatum, born in 1996; Sara Kate, who goes by Kate, born in 1997; and Charlotte, born in 2002. Throughout their daughters’ childhoods, Jill and Harry maintained a close-knit family dynamic, avoiding the stereotypical “embarrassing parent” phase that many parents experience. In a 2018 interview, Harry shared that their children never felt the need to distance themselves from their parents, which he attributes to their unique relationship and approach to parenting.
Both Jill and Harry have expressed how important their family is to them, often prioritizing family time despite their busy careers. Their daughters have grown up in an environment filled with love, support, and open communication, which Harry and Jill both believe is the cornerstone of their family life.
Battling Breast Cancer with Courage
In 2012, Jill faced a significant personal challenge when she was diagnosed with Stage 1 invasive ductal carcinoma, a form of breast cancer. The diagnosis came during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, prompting immediate action, including a lumpectomy followed by radiation therapy. By 2017, Jill was in remission, but she and Harry have been open about the profound impact her battle with cancer had on their lives.
Harry, who lost his mother to ovarian cancer when he was young, admitted to being deeply afraid of losing Jill, although he tried to shield her from his fears. He emphasized how much he values the chance to grow old with her, something he is incredibly grateful for. For her part, Jill spoke candidly about the physical and emotional toll the treatment took on her, including the weight gain caused by medication, which affected her self-confidence. Yet, throughout it all, Harry remained her unwavering supporter, continually reminding her that she is the most beautiful woman in his eyes.
A Legacy of Love and Art
Jill comes from a family of artistic talent; her mother, Glenna Goodacre, was a celebrated sculptor known for creating notable public monuments, including the Vietnam Women’s Memorial in Washington, D.C. and the Irish Famine Memorial in Philadelphia. When Glenna passed away in 2020, Harry paid tribute to her artistry and her role as a mother and grandmother, honoring the legacy she left behind.
The influence of Jill’s mother is evident in the way she approaches life, with a sense of creativity, grace, and strength. These qualities have undoubtedly played a part in her enduring relationship with Harry, contributing to the profound bond they share.
Conclusion
Jill Goodacre’s journey from a top model to a loving wife and mother, as well as a courageous cancer survivor, showcases a life filled with achievement, love, and resilience. Her relationship with Harry Connick Jr., marked by deep mutual admiration and shared life goals, stands as a testament to the power of love and commitment. As they celebrate over three decades together, their story continues to inspire many, reflecting a partnership rooted in friendship, shared dreams, and unwavering support for one another.
