Jaclyn Smith and Kate Jackson: Exclusive Photos & Candid ‘Charlie’s Angels’ Reunion Moments From Paley Center Gala in New York

Charlies Angels 50th anniversary award banquet at the Paleyfest in New York May 2026. Pictured are Jaclyn Smith and Kate Jackson — Credit: MIke PIngel

What To Know

Kate Jackson and Jaclyn Smith were honored at the Paley Center for Media Gala in New York, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Charlie’s Angels.
The event included tributes to original cast members, including a heartfelt note from Cheryl Ladd and a special remembrance of Farrah Fawcett’s impact on the show’s legacy.
Both actresses reflected on the series’ groundbreaking role in empowering women and its lasting influence on generations of fans worldwide.

Charlie’s Angels Kate Jackson and Jaclyn Smith we’re honored at the Paley Center for Media Honors Gala event held at the Plaza Hotel in New York City on Thursday, May 14, 2026, and ReMIND Magazine was behind the scenes as the Angels took to red carpets and the stage.

The evening began with a cocktail party as the actresses and fellow honorees Arnaud de Puyfontaine (Vivendi) and Robert Kyncl (Warner Music Group) walked the red carpet. Immediately following was a sit-down dinner and then the award ceremony and live auction. The evening’s proceeds support The Paley Center for Media’s education and preservation efforts.

Kate and Jaclyn cozy together as they walk the red carpet. Credit: Mike Pingel

Prior to the Angels’ arrival on stage, the Paley Media Center showcased a clip package featuring the actresses’ recent interview on The Today Show and a set of montage clips from Charlie’s Angels. This year Charlie’s Angels celebrates the 50th anniversary of the series that started in 1976. The series starred Kate Jackson as Sabrina Duncan, Farrah Fawcett as Jill Munroe, and Jaclyn Smith as Kelly Garrett. The trio played three detectives who worked for their unseen boss, Charles Townsend (John Forsythe). The Angels fought crime every week as the show shattered the glass ceiling with the first time three woman starring in a hit TV series.

Joan Lunden gave opening remarks regarding Charlie’s Angels and introduced the audience to the two original Angels.

Charlies Angels 50th anniversary award banquet at the Paleyfest in New York May 2026. Kate Jackson signs autographs ahead of the event

Kate stops to sign autographs for fans. Credit: Mike Pingel

Why Was Cheryl Ladd Not at the Paley Center Event?

Missing from the evening’s festivities was actress Cheryl Ladd who played Kris Munroe. Smith read a personal note from Ladd to the sold-out crowd. Ladd stated in the note that she was sorry she could not be there in person but “family comes first” and she thanked everyone for loving Charlie’s Angels and following all of their work. Jaclyn said, “She’s here in spirit.” (Ladd was with them when the show was celebrated in Los Angeles earlier this year)

Honoring Farrah Fawcett and Charlie’s Angels

Jackson went on to speak eloquently about Farrah Fawcett who passed away in 2006 and honored her saying that Farrah’s poster really helped the show “hit the ground running.” She went on to say how the show “really crashed through the glass ceiling,” even to the surprise of the powers-to-be at ABC-TV at the time.

“We’re proud that Charlie’s Angels inspired generations of young women and girls all over the world to dream bigger, to reach farther, and go after life in their own terms,” Jackson proudly continued. “… it very quietly delivered a very, very important message that a woman is just as capable, just as smart, just as worthy and just as good as a man.”

Smith reflected on the show saying, “It wasn’t just a role but a turning point. It gave me friendships that changed my life, one standing right here [Kate Jackson], memories that shaped me, and connections to audiences that have followed us for decades.”

Credit: Mike Pingel

Smith continued, “I share this recognition with my fellow Angels, certainly Farrah, who we never want to forget, and her charisma (she didn’t need a second season), our creators, cast and crew and especially the fans. The fans have kept our legacy going for generations.”

Both Smith and Jackson reflected how honored they both where with the Paley Center honoring the series that night. “…for entertaining the idea that Charlie’s Angels was actually … important. Two words I never thought I’d say in the same sentence..” Jackson told the crowd.

The Angels received beautiful glass award statues. The night continued with into a live auction and other honorees being recognized.

The Paley Center for Media is located on 52nd Street in New York City. Visit their website for upcoming events.