Quote Of The Day By Jean Smart: 'Never Ever Think That What You've Decided Is An Absolute...'

Jean Smart, famous for her iconic role as Deborah Vance in "Hacks," is a Hollywood icon. There are so many compelling details about Smart: Her screen presence is captivating, and her acting chops are undeniable. But she's also a legend because of her late-career renaissance. While she starred in hits like "Frasier" and "Fargo," Smart didn't land her big break until "Hacks" first premiered in 2021. She was 69-years-old when HBO Max first aired the show, proving that older women in Hollywood can create television gold.

Smart is living proof that life gets better and better. After all, even Smart's style game has gotten better with age. She's clearly one of the many celebs who are embracing aging with confidence, and we're glad she is. Born in September 1951 in Seattle, Washington, Smart began acting as a youngster, eventually working her way up to Broadway. She then began landing TV and film roles, but often as a side character. In fact, it wasn't until "Hacks" that Smart became the leading lady she was made to play. While Smart's now a huge success, she's also faced setbacks and hardships. At 13, she was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes, and has been open about the health struggles she's faced throughout her life. On top of that, Smart's husband of 33 years, Richard Gilliland, died in March 2021, adding a layer of grief to her life. She has survived struggles and grief with grace, and that's why Smart is today's quote of the day. 

Jean Smart was once asked what advice she'd give to her character, Deborah Vance, from "Hacks." Smart replied, "I think I would say to Deborah, never ever think that what you've decided is an absolute. There are a lot fewer absolutes in life than you think. And just always, always, always be open to change." 

Smart shared this piece of wisdom in June 2026 during a "For Your Consideration" event for the Emmy Awards. She was speaking on a panel with her "Hacks" co-stars when she dropped the advice, and the clip circulated on social media to a wide emotional reception from fans. Not only was Smart's advice poignant, but it was made that much more touching because "Hacks" concluded its five-season run in May 2026. So fans knew that the show was over, and Smart's thoughtful comment was a wistful way of saying goodbye to her iconic character.

Jean Smart's advice to her character, Deborah Vance, is relevant for all of us — try to approach life with flexibility and openness. Everyone can make mistakes and change their minds, and Smart's compassionate wisdom touches on this. By encouraging Deborah to rethink decisions, Smart encourages fans to do the same. Just because a person feels committed to something doesn't mean they have to force it to completion if it doesn't feel right. 

Smart's comment is all about approaching life with adaptability. It might be comforting to think that everything in life is sorted and finalized, but it rarely is. Conversely, it might be horrifying to think that everything in life is finalized and set in stone, but Smart's advice is a ray of hope for those who feel this way. We are not trapped by the choices we've made. Things change, and unexpected curveballs come out of nowhere; this isn't a calamity. Instead, it's helpful to approach change with warmth and curiosity. Just look at Smart's own life. Her husband, Richard Gilliland, died, and Smart was forced to prepare for the impending loss of a loved one. She became a star on "Hacks," and then "Hacks" ended; so Smart's own life is a lived example of her advice. Those joys and losses for Smart weren't absolutes, and to survive, she had to be open to change, too. It's a great lesson for fans, as well. Allow life to change.

• "We all fantasize about a relationship we'd like to do over or something we'd like to change about our past. I think there are a lot more opportunities for second chances in our lives than we think."
• "Personally, I think life offers us the opportunity to take chances and make changes all the time."
• "I think that people get to a certain point in their life and they think that nothing can change."
•  "Lately, I just let myself eat it more because I think, 'Oh, my God, a piece of cheese tastes so good'. I think it's your body telling you something."
• "We are all a lot more attracted to someone who finds us incredibly attractive. It's very flattering. It feels good."