The stars of the beloved television series Charlie's Angels, Jaclyn Smith, Kate Jackson, and Cheryl Ladd, reunited at the 2026 Emmy Awards, drawing attention not only for their enduring appearances but also to commemorate the show's 50th anniversary. The trio, whose combined age is 232, used the occasion to pay tribute to their former castmate, Farrah Fawcett.
Smith, 80, Jackson, 77, and Ladd, 75, took to the stage to present the Emmy for Drama Series and reflect on the cultural impact of Charlie's Angels. Fawcett, who was an original Angel before leaving the series after its first season, was remembered fondly by her colleagues.
"I would like to acknowledge someone not standing with us tonight, and that's my friend Farrah Fawcett," Smith said. "As I said many times, charisma doesn't need a second season. She's here, and she's here with us in everyone's collective memory."
Jackson added, "Farrah was the shiniest angel of all and she was loved by millions of people all over the world, and she still is today and they'll never forget her. And neither will we."
Ladd remarked on Fawcett's lasting legacy, noting, "And her iconic poster lives in the minds and the garages of many a man."
Fawcett died in 2009 at the age of 62 after a battle with cancer. She had departed Charlie's Angels after its inaugural season to pursue more dramatic roles and later returned to prominence in various projects. Ladd joined the cast in the second season, stepping in after Fawcett's departure, while Smith was the only original cast member to remain for all five seasons of the show, which concluded in 1981.
Charlie's Angels, which premiered in 1976, centered on three female private detectives working for a millionaire named Charlie. The series became a significant cultural phenomenon for its portrayal of women in powerful roles.
Smith, who played Kelly Garrett, has remained connected to the franchise, appearing in subsequent film adaptations. Reflecting on her friendship with Fawcett, Smith previously told People magazine about their deep bond, which endured for 40 years. She recalled spending precious time with Fawcett towards the end of her life, cherishing their conversations about their lives and families.
"It was like a college dorm, eating in our trailers together," Smith said of the camaraderie on set. "Sometimes we'd shop on weekends for what we were going to wear. We were not just actresses working, but girlfriends and it remained that way for 40 years."
Smith also highlighted Fawcett's independent spirit, stating, "When Farrah decided to leave after one season, we all supported her. She wasn't afraid to say, 'This is what I'm gonna do.' Farrah wanted to be seen as a serious actress. She marched to her own drum."
The reunion at the Emmys also brought attention to the lasting appeal of the actresses and the show that defined a generation.