Richard Gilliland

Richard Gilliland (January 23, 1950 – March 18, 2021) was an American television and movie actor. Born in Fort Worth, Texas, he attended Shawnee Mission South High School in Overland Park, Kansas. Gilliland began his acting career in the 1970s and had notable appearances in shows such as The Waltons, Thirtysomething, Party of Five, and Little Women. He is best known for his role as JD Shackleford in the TV series Designing Women (1986–1992), where he met his wife, actress Jean Smart. They have two sons together, Connor and Forrest. Gilliland also had recurring roles on The Unit and 24. Richard Gilliland passed away on March 18, 2021.