Jaclyn Smith looking stylish at an event
TV & Film

Jaclyn Smith Spills On 'Drug-Fueled' Charlie's Angels Set And Co-Star's Explosive Tantrums

The TV legend looks back at the wild backstage atmosphere and unpredictable tempers on the classic series.

By Nina BrooksPublished Updated 2 min read

Jaclyn Smith is dropping major revelations about the chaotic backstage reality of *Charlie's Angels*, opening up about the illicit substances and short fuses that defined the legendary television series. The veteran actress recently reflected on the classic detective drama, painting a picture of a set that was far wilder than the slick, glamorous fantasy presented to television audiences during the show's peak. According to a new report detailing her comments, Smith candidly addressed the prevalence of drugs on set while filming the hit series. While millions of fans tuned in weekly to watch three stylish crime-fighters take down bad guys, the cast and crew were allegedly navigating a heavy party atmosphere behind the camera that mirrored the era's notoriously uninhibited Hollywood lifestyle.

What did Jaclyn Smith say about the Charlie's Angels set?

Jaclyn Smith looking stylish at an event
Jaclyn Smith looking stylish at an event

Smith explained that the workplace culture was heavily influenced by substance use at the time, creating an unpredictable environment for everyone involved. Navigating instant global stardom alongside long production hours proved intense, and the behind-the-scenes energy frequently spilled over into interpersonal drama among the show's stars. Beyond the party-heavy backdrop, workplace tension frequently boiled over during production. Smith detailed how the high-pressure schedule combined with the backstage culture made everyday filming a delicate balancing act for the cast.

Kate Jackson, Farrah Fawcett, Jaclyn Smith.
The actress claimed that co-star Kate Jackson (left) could be difficult on set. ©Columbia Pictures/courtesy Everett Co / Everett Collection

Which Charlie's Angels co-star had an explosive temper?

Jaclyn Smith, Kate Jackson, Farrah Fawcett.
“Her temper could get the best of her,” Smith (left) wrote about Jackson (middle.) ©ABC/Courtesy Everett Collection

In addition to discussing the drug-fueled atmosphere, Smith singled out the volatile behavior of a specific castmate who struggled with intense mood swings. The actress remembered this colleague as someone who could be extremely sharp, skilled at their craft, and genuinely fun on their good days. However, that charm could evaporate in an instant if something went wrong on set. As Smith recalled, this co-star was prone to flying into a sudden rage over minor slights or small disagreements. One minute the actor might be downright silly and collaborative, and the next they would explode in fury, creating a tense dynamic for the rest of the team during long shooting days. Despite the backstage temper tantrums and heavy substance use, *Charlie's Angels* went on to become one of the most influential pop-culture staples of its generation. Smith's candid retrospective highlights the stark contrast between the sparkling, perfect image broadcast into living rooms and the complicated high-wire act of making the show happen behind closed doors.

The photos · 6

Jaclyn Smith looking stylish at an event
The actress claimed that co-star Kate Jackson (left) could be difficult on set. ©Columbia Pictures/courtesy Everett Co / Everett Collection
“Her temper could get the best of her,” Smith (left) wrote about Jackson (middle.) ©ABC/Courtesy Everett Collection
Jackson (right) would warm up before filming by shouting “every four-letter word in the book,” per Smith (left.)
Smith (second from the left) also alleged Jackson (second from the right) did not like working with co-star Cheryl Ladd (right).
Smith (second from the left) also described rampant drug use on set in later seasons. ©Columbia Pictures/courtesy Everett Co / Everett Collection

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People also ask

What did Jaclyn Smith reveal about Charlie's Angels?
Jaclyn Smith revealed that the set of 'Charlie's Angels' was fueled by drug use and marked by backstage drama, including a co-star who frequently lost their temper.
Did Jaclyn Smith say drugs were on the Charlie's Angels set?
Yes, according to reports on her recent comments, Smith confirmed that drug use was prevalent among people on the show's set during its run.