Jill Jacobson: 5 Things You Didn’t Know About the Legendary Actor Who Also Appeared on “Star Trek: The Next Generation”

Jill Jacobson was a talented actress who touched the hearts of many, leaving behind a legacy that spans across TV, film, and advocacy work. 

Known for her roles in shows like Falcon Crest, The New Gidget, and even Star Trek: The Next Generation, Jacobson was not just a familiar face on our screens—she was an inspiration, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes.

Sadly, she passed away on December 8, 2024, at the age of 70 after a long battle with cancer. However, her career and life continue to impact those who had the privilege of seeing her work.

So, who exactly was Jill Jacobson beyond the screen? Let’s take a closer look at this remarkable woman and explore five things you might not know about her.

Jill Jacobson found success in her career beyond Star Trek: The Next Generation

If you grew up watching TV in the ’80s and ’90s, chances are, you’ve seen Jill Jacobson in action. She was one of those actors who could pop up in a variety of roles and instantly make her presence felt.

You might know her best as Vanessa in Star Trek: The Next Generation, where she played a pivotal role in the episode The Royale. But Jacobson wasn’t just a one-episode wonder on the USS Enterprise.

She also appeared in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, another popular sci-fi series, where she played the character Chalan Aroya in the episode Broken Link. This wasn’t her only big TV role, either.

Jacobson had a significant part in Falcon Crest, one of the most famous soap operas of the time, where she played Erin Jones from 1985 to 1987. She brought a perfect blend of drama and warmth to the show, and fans still remember her for it.

Beyond these big-name series, the star also had a steady stream of roles on popular TV shows of the era. She starred in The New Gidget, a reboot of the classic series, and appeared in shows like Quantum Leap, Newhart, and Arliss.

She even worked on the eerie Freddy’s Nightmares and had guest spots on Whoopi Goldberg’s Strong Medicine. And let’s not forget her film career.

Jacobson had a small role in the classic film Splash alongside Tom Hanks. She also appeared in several TV movies throughout the ‘80s, including Not Just Another Affair and Obsessive Love. Whether on the big screen or small, Jacobson knew how to make her mark.

Jill Jacobson was born in a Jewish family

Born into a Jewish family in 1954, Jill Jacobson’s heritage was an important part of her identity. Her father, Harry Jacobson, was a doctor, and her mother, Carol Toplitz Jacobson Hornstein, helped shape Jacobson’s early life (per THR). Growing up in Beaumont and later in Dallas, she was always close to her Jewish roots.

Jill Jacobson graduated with a degree in Radio, TV, and Film

Before she was dazzling audiences on screen, Jill Jacobson had a solid foundation in the world of media. In fact, she studied it. Born and raised in Beaumont, Texas, Jacobson headed to the University of Texas at Austin, where she studied Radio, TV, and Film Performance.

In a way, her education gave her an edge—allowing her to shine even more brightly in her roles. After graduating, Jacobson packed her bags and headed to Los Angeles to pursue her dream.

Jacobson wasted no time making a name for herself in Hollywood, and soon enough, she was appearing in some of the most beloved TV shows and movies of the time. The degree might have been the foundation, but it was her drive and talent that truly made her a standout.

Jill Jacobson was a volunteer spokesperson for the American Cancer Society

In 2024, Jill Jacobson opened up about something that changed her life. She had been living with esophageal cancer for over two years, which kept her away from acting and public life for a while. But Jacobson was never one to back down from a challenge.

Instead of retreating, she used her voice and platform to help others. According to Deadline, she started volunteering as a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society, sharing her own story to raise awareness.

Her cancer diagnosis became a turning point, not just for her, but for many others who saw her fighting spirit. Jacobson received several awards for her volunteer work with the American Cancer Society, and her advocacy inspired countless individuals.

Despite all she faced, Jacobson stayed positive and dedicated to helping others fighting cancer. Her advocacy became just as important to her legacy as her acting career.

Jill Jacobson was set to star in Merrily

Jill Jacobson wasn’t slowing down, even in the later years of her career. According to IMDb, she was working on an upcoming film titled Merrily, scheduled to be released in 2025.

In this movie, Jacobson played the character Marielle, joining a talented cast that included Terry Moore and Kristine DeBell. Though details about the movie are still a bit mysterious, the fact that she was involved in this project shows just how dedicated she was to her craft, even at the end of her life.