Whatever Happened to Jan Smithers - Bailey Quarters from TV's "WKRP in Cincinnati"

Here's my update on Jan Smithers, the actress who played shy but sexy Bailey Quarters on the classic TV sit-com WKRP in Cincinnati.
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This video is not intended for children under the age of 14. Quite frankly, kids...I'm just some random old dude talking about nostalgic TV and movie stuff from a really long time ago and I highly doubt that it is going to interest you.
#classictv #thegoodstuff #davesundstrom

[@KevinDavis338]

So I wasn't the only one who liked Jan over Loni.

[@edbrown4218]

Burt Reynolds discovered what it was like to be married to Loni Anderson. Not a whole lot of fun.

[@bradwooldidge6979]

I did too. She was really hot! Loni = fake.

[@peggycreek449]

Kevin Davis No you weren't.

[@peggycreek449]

Ed Brown How do you know. What was she a bitch?

[@davidc.morrow6196]

There's many of us.

[@alexdeleon7135]

This woman's obvious beauty couldn't be hidden behind glasses. Thanks for this tribute. I hope one day she decides to perform, or even do a cameo on any show.

[@bongodave13]

WKRP was one of those lightning-in-a-bottle moments for TV. The casting was perfect. The premise, the humor, and the characters made it all work. Ensemble shows depend on great chemistry, and WKRP had it. It's hard to name a favorite character when you love them all.

[@jdsundstrom]

Well said, Bongo Dave!

[@petey80]

Absolutely. I whole heartedly agree.

[@marceldagenais1893]

Always the sexiest especially in Johnny Fevers black Sabbath t shirt !

[@timdaly5831]

I always liked Jan's looks over Loni Anderson.

[@cheechwizard60]

Loni was always too made up for me, Jan was more real.

[@vanceoverstreet4182]

One of best shows ever. Watch it every nite on METV. I like the posters they changed every episold. I aways look for Less and his bandaids Bailly was hot

[@tomjones2348]

Excellent presentation. My dad was the general manager of a midwestern radio/tv station when this show aired. I asked him if it was close to reality or just a spoof. He said it was very reminiscent of what things were like on a day to day basis for him at the station.

[@jdsundstrom]

It sounds like your dad had a pretty cool job, Tom!

[@vampfashions]

I have actually met and worked with some Herb Tarlek, salesmen who just couldn't sell guys, and adorable loser is an apt title.

[@magaisacult2023]

I always thought she was much hotter than Loni.

[@peterreimer786]

Agree.

[@robynSable]

Agree 100%

[@robynSable]

@Doug Sawyer Jan was real, Loni was a made up Barbie doll , you're right about them not being in the same class.

[@Miatacrosser]

And you weren't scared to death of Bailey like you would've been with Jennifer.

[@Miatacrosser]

@@robynSable and men are scared to death of made up barbie dolls. She was a man eater and we men know that. THAT IS the single biggest reason we prefer Bailey...only our egos won't let us admit it.

[@gerryst-aubin5877]

Loni Anderson never really did it for me, but Jan Smithers, wow, she was beautiful. I couldn't wait for the scenes with Bailey on WKRP!

[@Davidchristenson-b1h]

It was the age old argument the gorgeous(Loni Anderson) versus the pleasant looking girl next door(Jan Smithers)It was similar to that of Gilligans' Island:Ginger versus Mary Ann)The fact remains in reality that many(if not not most) are too intimidated to ask the gorgeous girl out on a date and instead go for the girl next door.After all what American male didn't salivate over the ultimate girl next door,Meg Ryan in her younger acting days

[@georgeevancho1844]

Loni was a foney

[@georgeevancho1844]

Like on Gilligan's Island Ginger couldn't hold a candle to maryann

[@CaesiusX]

Forget Jennifer. . .I was _all about _*_Bailey!_*

[@tomquimby6432]

I preferred Jenny poo myself

[@skroy8671]

I'm with you Thomas Kelly! Bailey was hot!! Jennifer was too made up - too unnatural. You'd never run your fingers through HER hair with all that hair spray!

[@craigsnedden3051]

I'm with you Bro, Bailey was just awesome!

[@WizardGlik]

Line forms over here, buddy.

[@geoffdearth7360]

Ditto.

[@stevenejezchleba5201]

Bailey was a goddess.....and the show was one of the best sitcoms ever......great cast and great story's....

[@muskokamike127]

I'm definitely talkin' cordoba! lol A man's name says it all, what's your name? Les....lol......

[@JDSly1]

WKRP ended way too soon.

[@martiwest1753]

Dont know if I agree she was a goddess but agree with the rest of your comment.

[@Krzyszczynski]

I used to feel distinctly cheated by those occasional episodes when Bailey didn't feature at all.

[@mikereseigh]

She was way hotter than Lonnie.

[@klausuhlig7141]

I loved that show

[@gwag8410]

Mike Reseigh I thought so too...

[@johnmcelroy8198]

Yep

[@dollydagger4306]

I never to this day thought Loni Anderson was attractive. Take away the blonde bombshell hair, and you wouldn't give her a second look. Even when I was little I thought Bailey was the beautiful, cute one. If there was such a thing as Smell-a-vision, every time Bailey came on screen, her hair would smell like strawberries or Jolly Ranchers or something.

[@dollydagger4306]

@Darrell French I think Gary Sandy would definitely disagree with you. Gary and Loni doing it in her dressing room. Really classy, Loni. She must have thought she was Jayne Mansfield or something. Although it would have been cool if Jan had something going with Tim Reid😁💋

[@martin26011]

I always thought she was more attractive than Loni Anderson.

[@slickric2176]

Of course because people like me and you might have a chance. But to get Lonnie you have to be Burt Reynolds... But we see how that turned out.... Yes the girl next door is way hotter.

[@jimmycalire6393]

The lovely Jan lives in my small town home of Ojai Ca. She is a dear person and a good neighbor to all.

[@jcartwright9036]

Since Ojai is such a tennis mecca, do you know if she plays?

[@freeguy77]

I just read about her on Wikipedia, where it mentions she resided previously in Canada, before moving to Ojai, in Ventura County. Ojai is northwest from L.A., but east from Santa Barbara, est population in 2018 of 7,496, so a small town by itself. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jan_Smithers

[@douglasdepirro8364]

Ojai was also the fictional home of Jaime somer, the bionic woman's character. 😃

[@MrArdytube]

jimmy calire If you chat, tell her hi. It is silly, but she brighten a few days

[@hansteichmann]

@@douglasdepirro8364 Don't forget Steve Austin's home too!

[@timbylander7015]

As god is my witness, I thought Turkey's could fly!

[@matthewheywood8532]

Possibly the greatest episode of tv ever

[@mike2400]

@@matthewheywood8532 I just thought about that the other day!!! so funny, but I felt so bad for the Turkeys.

[@73honda350]

"Oh, the humanity!"

[@Bob3519]

Thank you, your comment made me laugh. 😁

[@maryelizabeth6797]

Tim Bylander My all time favourite tv quote. 🌥⛅️🌤☀️

[@edjones8039]

She had that natural, girl next door quality that Loni didn't have.

[@thelastjohnwayne]

I must have grown up in the wrong neighborhood. I did not have girls like that who lived next door.

[@truantray]

Anderson was too synthetic.

[@soisaidtogod4248]

Loni seemed more of a date by the hour type.

[@defshepard]

Yes she did, that is what I liked and remembered about her.

[@jamesanthony5681]

Loni added nothing to the show. She was neither likeable nor funny. Jan was at least likeable. And attractive.

[@georgeforeman9666]

James Brolin's next wife was Barbra Streisand. Man talk about trading down.

[@pontiacgrandprix733]

Lotta cash, lotta cash, and in the 70s check her out in the Main Event w shorts on, maybe Mr Brolin likes them shorts

[@thomasodetto4670]

Be nice folks. Aren’t we all created equal ? Besides Barbara has a great singing voice. Life is short. Don’t forget !

[@georgeforeman9666]

Marshall W I think you were right in the first place, her Meds need adjusting. That or she had never been diagnosed in the first place. This kind of mindless rambling is defiantly a sign of something.

[@davejohn5876]

@Marshall W For you to have that attitude you're probably not much different.

[@Mozart1220]

@Marshall W And I'm sure the multi millionaire with dozens of hit songs and a long successful movie career is devastated that you don;t like her.

[@coleparker]

Bailey Quarters, Mary Ann, were the ones that most guys really wanted. They both were perceived as sexy, but most of all approachable.

[@twigstudios]

True. I was a definite Mary Ann guy. I also preferred Janet over the blondes on Three's Company and Jackie on Two Close for Comfort. Bailey was my crush on WKRP.

[@MichaelSHartman]

Just what I was thinking.

[@jubalcalif9100]

How very true ! I think most fellas preferred down to earth ladies like Bailey & Mary Ann over oversexed characters like Jennifer and Ginger !

[@darkstar77338]

Bailey was the Mary Ann vs Ginger of the show. More average to the first look but more desirable in the long run.

[@Tomatohater64]

Dawn Wells is almost 80 and freaking still looks great. Solid morals and a very humble woman, she was my favorite actress for decades, until I saw the sublimely esoteric Melissa Leo act.

[@teresa67factoid95]

She was flawless in those 70s jeans

[@willisix2554]

I used to watch that show hoping she'd wear jeans

[@allanpattison329]

She was my favorite lady on WKRP. Bailey & Dr Jonnie Fever were the solid back ups to the stories. While all cast members were important, they stood out!

[@maxwellcrazycat9204]

I loved Bailey just like I loved Mary Ann.

[@jongroubert4203]

Exactly. The other two were just so obvious.

[@akndnlawyer]

Maxwell Crazycat w

[@drwho6908]

I was fortunate enought to date a shy beauty who was named Mary Ann. Don't like made up high maintenance types like Ginger and Loni's charcter. Bailey and Mary Ann the true beauties of sitcoms. Also had a Maine Coon Cat named "Bill the Cat" and have a tattoo of Bill with the famous "Ack" on one arm. A Skull on the other with "To the Death" and "The Punisher" above and below it.

[@jubalcalif9100]

I wonder if Bailey makes a coconut cream pie as good as Mary Ann's ? Oh well...doesn't matter....both ladies are still quite lovely !!

[@maxwellcrazycat9204]

@@drwho6908 Ack!

[@yusefendure]

I had a huge crush on her. She's the main reason I watched that show as a kid!

[@robertgutheridge9672]

DIDO on that

[@rockinmosquito]

You, me, and about 3 million others in the male 18-39 demo.

[@aquahombre]

So true

[@jubalcalif9100]

You clearly have xlnt taste !!

[@Anderson_101]

Same here too!

[@kevinpollard9010]

My family loved this show. The writing was genius. Shush a good idea for a show. The characters were all so unique and each one was likeable. Another awesome video Dave! Thanks.

[@cityhawk]

From what I understand, Hugh Wilson (creator of WKRP In Cincinnati), cast Jan because she reminded him of his wife in terms of appearance and personality. Jan looked like the kind of woman, you’d take to a lounge, have a couple of drinks, talk the night away, and never wanting the night to end because of her. She’s made you to be romantic, she made you want to be a gentleman. That’s not an easy quality to find in a woman.

[@jdsundstrom]

I think you hit the nail on the head, Brian!

[@cityhawk]

Razor One I know. I’m still searching for my Bailey. I know she’s out there.

[@hankkingsley2976]

Also a quote that the other actresses were playing shy Jan was shy

[@walterpaton8698]

Jan is the kind of women you would want to bring home and meet your parents... ASAP

[@jubalcalif9100]

You speak the truth, Kemo Sabe ! THANKS for your insightful comment !

[@raylamascus2296]

She was like Mary Ann and Ginger on Gilligans island I always loved Mary Ann and she was the cutest and Jan was the cutest on WKRP

[@michaelecu11]

That's such a great analogy...good one Ray.

[@daleslover2771]

Razor One that's a lot of wishing,

[@jowbloe3673]

Ditto

[@argelbargel7680]

Bailey.

[@rj69vp72]

Ray Lamascus t

[@arthurmcneal6421]

Always thought she was much sexier than Loni Anderson.She looked amazing in those skin tight jeans of the 70's.

[@steveray9655]

Whenever guys ask, "Ginger or Maryann", I ask, "what about Jennifer or Bailey?". For myself, it's always been Maryann and Bailey.

[@agnichatian]

yep, and Joyce DeWitt vs whats-her-name on 3's Co. !

[@marklehman9858]

@@agnichatian Ginger or Maryann or the third choice - Mrs Howe......

[@WakenerOne]

@@agnichatian Yup. Mary Ann, Bailey, Janet . . . and Jeannie. And, as I was a kid at the time, JAN, not Marcia! Oh, and Maren Jensen, Athena from Battlestar Galactica, over Laurette Spang.

[@freeguy77]

Dawn Wells vs. Jan Snithers! What a great, under-rated two supporting characters and gorgeous women they were in their respective series! Both were great, but Dawn was not usually allowed to 'dress-up' to show how incredibly beautiful and sexy she could be, except in one episode where she had amnesia and thought she was Ginger! That one, if you see it again, will take your breath away on how terrific she could look instead of the "plain Jane" she was forced to be for her character. When I saw the original episodes (1964-67) she far surpassed Tina Louise in sexiness, even when not dressed-up, as Ginger always was shown as a big Hollywood siren. Tina was good looking, no doubt, but Dawn seemed to have more of that special something of that Tina lacked. Jan also far surpassed Jennifer (Loni Anderson) in the same way.

[@ghostofreagan3181]

Ginger, Maryann, Mrs. Howell and quite frankly Giligan better watch his ass. Hey it's a small island.

[@brianmcdaid3178]

Never cared much for the flashy beauties. Always loved the quiet but always there beauties. Ginger or Mary Ann? Mary Ann every time. Jenifer or Bailey? Bailey every time. Dawn Wells and Jan Smithers are quietly beautiful and played their parts wonderfully.

[@scottrowe533]

As a very young man, I had the most deeply felt crush on Jan Smithers and her Bailey Quarters character. I never missed an episode of WKRP, and the first shot of Jan in each episode always made my heart flutter. I even named the car I owned at the time after Bailey, (though I never told anyone why I had chosen that name). It's good to know she has had a fulfilling life. Thank you.

[@jdsundstrom]

You are very welcome, S Rowe!

[@tomswinburn1778]

Drop dead gorgeous and seemingly a really nice gal Jan was always tops with me. I'm not gonna downgrade Loni, as she was playing a PART, just as were the whole cast. But Dr. Johnny Fever, Mr. Carlson, Venus and the rest made that a really enjoyable half hour. Weird, off beat, strange, whatever you wanna call it, WKRP was never mean spirited or depressing. Just fun.

[@jdsundstrom]

You're right, Tom. WKRP was just plain fun and the entire cast was awesome!

[@ffggddss]

And don't forget - "WKRP, where we have more music, and Les Nessman!" - Johnny Fever Fred

[@JohnCregoWorldMusic]

@@ffggddss My most remembered line from the show. Though I think it was Venus that said that. Of course I could be wrong.

[@ffggddss]

@@JohnCregoWorldMusic Or I could be. But I seem to recall it being Johnny. I guess I can picture it either way... Also, the exact quote was probably not that. Mighta been, "... where you'll hear ..." Fred

[@k1j2f30]

Bailey was so cute and shy, just the type of girl that makes you want to cuddle up with on the couch with a blanket, some popcorn and a coke, and watch a good movie. The kind of girl us guys all dream about that would make your friends jealous and your mom happy. A fun and loving woman that would be your best friend, mother to your children and a soft and beautiful yet down to earth wife. Ya, they don't make them like they use to, ha.

[@SarahKayeRen]

@Luke Based on what?

[@thinkswrites7238]

k1j2f30 In a world where most don’t know how to properly construct a sentence (apparently many are more limited than the character allowance on Twitter) & sit at their screens poised to take negative aim at any post or person, your comment (& this well-narrated video of course) was a highlight of my week! Thank you for commenting positively about a fabulous show & cast. AND, please forgive my massive, run-on sentence! I don’t tweet but when complimenting, it’s difficult not to go overboard! 🙂

[@k1j2f30]

@@thinkswrites7238 Thank you, that was a very nice compliment. Sometimes, going overboard can be a good thing.

[@thinkswrites7238]

k1j2f30 You’re most welcome! Yours was the 1st comment I’ve ever posted- clearly I was impressed- thk you also for NOT mentioning 🦃 from the sky, not one of my WKRP favs- 😉

[@k1j2f30]

@@thinkswrites7238I feel honored to have been chosen for your first post, thanks again. If the reason for you not liking the "turkeys from the sky" episode is because you love animals and don't like to see them hurt...I feel the same way! I hope all of your future posts and comments make others feel as good as this did to me.

[@mmcleod06]

She was WKRP's Marianne, where Loni was their Ginger.

[@douglasjcox]

Yep. And I preferred her and Mary Ann.

[@seanharris2320]

Except that MaryAnn, Ginger, and Bailey were good-looking. Never thought the other one was.

[@graememceachren1118]

Tina Louise did NOT age well. Dawn Wells still looks pretty good. At least DW still looks like a human. The problem with ‘hot’ girls is that they are generally well aware of their ‘hotness’. And they aren’t giving it up for you!

[@seanharris2320]

@@graememceachren1118 Hahaha...okay. I get what you're saying but it isn't categorically true. Confidence and competence and compliments - NO MATTER what you LOOK like - can go a long way in many things.

[@jeffreyroberson7900]

Very underrated! Sometimes in life simple( plain jane )is attractive an lovely😍🌹🌹🌹

[@christopherdieudonne]

4:27 It's always nice seeing (former) actresses who let themselves age naturally. They always look WAY BETTER than the ones who chase youth through plastic surgery.

[@jdsundstrom]

Totally agree, Christopher!

[@graememceachren1118]

Total agreement. Always thought that Julie Newmar was #1. Until I saw her some years ago being interviewed. She couldn’t stop smiling because the skin was so tight on her face. Just age gracefully. If you were attractive when young, you probably won’t become a hideous gargoyle as you age. Can you imagine what kind of mess Pamela Anderson’s rack is now?

[@boataxe4605]

They definitely had a Mary Ann / Ginger thing happening, I preferred Mary Ann and Bailey.

[@zumbinisgm]

I had such a crush on Jan Smithers as Bailey Quarters.

[@69voxbeetle]

Still do.

[@edkeaton1085]

Jan Smithers was a hottie back in the day! She was gorgeous! Just as gorgeous as Lonnie Anderson. I always got Jan confused with the lady who played "Julie Kotter,", Marcia Strassman, who was also very attractive back in the day!

[@1mantisco]

Jan was prettier than Lonnie IMHO

[@JayTemple]

I didn't make that mistake, but I can see how you could.

[@MrPiggy007]

Me too

[@migue4793]

Yeah she was a lot prettier than Loni. She has a more natural look. Also, Jan still looks good for 69. I love watching old sitcoms. They, in my opinion, are better than this shit we have on TV today. I detest reality shows, these music shows, and etc... I liked when people actually played instruments and played in small clubs hoping a record producer would spot them. But, i find the older sitcoms are funnier than the ones today like All in the Family, Mamas Family, WKRP, and so many others.

[@jeffrobdine]

@@migue4793 Any relation to Ille Nastase ? My favorite tennis player !

[@dds1957doc]

She is still my favorite character on WKRP,

[@JDSly1]

I thought she was so much more attractive than Loni Anderson. She had that "girl next door" thing going on.

[@ArchFundy]

The best line in sitcom history was Mr Carlson saying, "With God as my witness, I thought turkeys could fly". Loved that show.

[@jdsundstrom]

One of the funniest episodes ever!

[@timmcquain3855]

Problem WUZ City people aint outdoors types, WILD turkeys can Fly short distances FOOD farm raised ones CANT cause the wings have been "clipped"

[@dizbang3073]

you'd think the helicopter pilot would have known better.

[@flalawdog9463]

darin zank well you have to suspend reality some anyway because you can’t tow a banner behind a helicopter. :-)

[@moonlit6311]

Oh! That was a killer episode. Loved it!!! 😂😂😂

[@brucecoleman7412]

I struggle really hard to pick a favorite out of this cast. Every one of them played their parts so well, not to mention how expertly they played off of each other. And then there was Bailey. I couldn’t wait for her next scene!

[@kimparish1982]

Dave, you are one of the best narrators I've ever heard on KZbin. Your all around professionalism abounds. Thank you.

[@jdsundstrom]

Thank you for the kind words, Kim!

[@ewilliams2268]

It’s like Mary Ann over ginger.

[@jdsundstrom]

Yep. It sure is!

[@louispkaczmarek5482]

Also like Kate Jackson over Farrah Fawcett.

[@brabham74]

Williams, we all did. :)

[@jeffelkins1905]

@@louispkaczmarek5482 Mary Ann yes Bailey yes Kate that's a big no

[@13ivanogre13]

Ginger and Loni going at it. Must-see TV!

[@IvanSanchez-mh9gu]

I always thought and still think Bailey was hotter than Jennifer 😊

[@Gunners_Mate_Guns]

She was Maryanne to Lonnie's Ginger, IOW the hotter of the two.

[@lindsey607]

Totally true.

[@dalewatkins9889]

Thanks...great up in that era, and often wonder what happened to many of the stars from the '60's on up! Always hope for the best, and yet realize unfortunately that some of them are sadly gone now! Always loved Jan Smithers in WKRP as well, such a beautiful woman indeed!

[@WRATHofDESTRUCTION]

The funniest episode of all time was the Thanksgiving episode. "As God as my witness I thought turkeys could fly"

[@jdsundstrom]

Totally agree. One of the all time great moments on television!

[@darrenkrivit6854]

My favorite as well😂

[@heygetoffmylawn1572]

I agree 100%. That episode was a classic...my favorite, too.

[@geoffreyjones2000]

I was going to say the same lol classic peace

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

WKRP was well made, 🎬. It didn't get to 100 episodes or be popular on re runs. 📺👍.. the show was revived briefly in the 1990s but did not work out. Hugh Wilson the producer said music cues dated the series & made it $$$ hard to sell overseas.

[@brianarbenz7206]

WKRP in Cincinnati was the best and most true-to-life sitcom ever. I worked at small creative media businesses and the clashes between everyone are just like, well, Herb, and Venus and Andy and Bailey and so on and so on!

[@williammcdonald5086]

Would have loved see more of Bailey. I also loved the acting of Herman Hesse and Tim Reed in their roles as Johnny Fever and Venus Flytrap.

[@larryyeadeke2953]

Howard Hesseman played Johnny Fever.

[@Pb-ij4ip]

I had huge crush on Bailey and thought Less was hilarious. Whenever I watch an episode now I feel just like I did back then except that I have a lot more appreciation for the rest of the cast. The chemistry they had is absolutely magical.

[@Pb-ij4ip]

Jeff Wilkins 😂

[@rockbay79]

I always loved this show! T.V. was just so much better in the 1960's and 1970's. Maybe it is just me. I rarely even watch T.V anymore. I watch KZbin much more. I was a teenager in the 1970's, and everything seemed so much more laid back and peaceful. Now, I'm 58 years old and fear large cities due to the crime. I seldom go out much anymore because the food is too expensive, movies are too expensive, and there are gangs and all types of bad things. Maybe it's my age, but I like relaxing at home, with a simple meal and a soda. Love your channel!!!!

[@jdsundstrom]

I'm glad you're enjoying the channel, rockbay79!

[@Eddthompson]

I will always remember Tim Reid talking about atoms "Tron means dude in Swahili" Brilliant work by the whole cast and great writing too

[@mudhens4ever]

Yep. One of my favorite episodes!

[@Lord_Shadowz]

Oh my god, it’s turkeys dropping from the helicopter! Oh the humanity! They are hitting the ground at full speed! Rofl. I loved the show. I grew up watching it.

[@scottjcaldwell]

One of the best TV episodes ever! lol

[@kennethphillips2208]

Lord Shadowz I cannot watch the Turkey episode without laughing till my sides hurt. EVERY TIME.

[@davewebster5676]

With God as my witness I thought turkeys could fly......still brings tears to my eyes. Lol

[@drakawinkle584]

Every darn time that I go to cook any whole birds, I think of this episode. I sorta do my own version of it Thanksgiving. My kids just think that their mom is being weird. Lol

[@ZommBleed]

Sucks to get old. Those truly were the good old days.

[@Tommy_Mac]

Yeah but if we weren't old, we wouldn't have experienced what life was like back then...much simpler and a lot more feedom.

[@timjeffries1555]

Can’t replace those times, just watch the news.

[@jad43701]

@Leon Wood Which is more points than many people watching them had to start with.

[@vennhologram9417]

Nothing against Loni, but always preferred "the other girl".

[@Miatacrosser]

Cause you couldn't handle Jennifer cause in real life you'd be scared to death of her. Like we all would be. She was a maneater and men all know that but their egos won't let them admit it.

[@vennhologram]

@@Miatacrosser Nothing so complex-I just find Bailey cuter.

[@markcornish2519]

Loved the episode where bailey and johnny dressed up to get Jennifer's photos back from the sleazy photographer

[@davidgarber8116]

WKRP in Cincinnati helped me get through highschool. When you loose a parent at 16. Didn't have therapy, councillors, grief helpers at all. Rub some dirt on it. That show made me laugh at times.

[@jdsundstrom]

I'm sorry to hear about your loss at such a young age, David.

[@clearsailing7993]

It's hard enough to lose a parent when you are older. Terrible to have this happen when you are young. You have been through a lot. I will think some gentle kind thoughts for you.

[@lionheartroar3104]

Smithers is an unsung beauty.

[@oldbisciut84]

She was my first celebrity crush

[@waltp3373]

As much as I liked Loni Anderson, I was smitten by Smithers.

[@alf.2929]

@The Watchful And Harmonious Subsriber I see what you did there Mr. Burns.

[@jubalcalif9100]

"Smitten by Smithers" !! Very good ! You're a poet and didn't know it, Walt !! :-)

[@waltp3373]

@@alf.2929 EXCELLENT!

[@ianobrien3248]

I loved Bailey watching reruns in the mid-80's. It's nice to see a hollywood beauty who didn't trash herself with plastic surgery and allowed herself to age naturally. Still beautiful!

[@deathstar7766]

I loved Bailey on the show. She was kind of like Maryanne on Gilligan's.

[@DDS029]

That's the same thing I was thinking. Three's Company, same comparisons. It's like the saying. There are two types of women, one you want to date, and one you want to marry.

[@pg1171]

EXCELLENT! Hadn't thought of that, but you hit the nail on the head! Loni was just too plastic and over the top.

[@freeguy77]

@@DDS029 If you bring up Chrissy on "Three's Company", you will notice she frequently makes important points the other 2 have not thought of, with Jack and Janet mention how "twisted" Chrissy's logic might sound to them, but they admit she was correct in her overall thinking, realizing she has brains too! IOW, Chrissy was more of a real person than the artificial and not-too-bright "Ginger" (Hollywood actress and "looker" only) and "Jennifer" (spacey and also not very bright) are on "Gilligan's Island" and "WKRP" respectively.

[@questfortruth665]

I had the hots for Jan from the first time I saw the show! Something about the glasses and the modesty! I used to call them "sleeper foxes".

[@daneosborn3476]

She had great legs. To bad they didnt show them on the show more often.

[@toddvanwinkle7777]

Every now and then they would put her in a skirt... Damn she did have some smokin' hot legs..

[@robertgutheridge9672]

most definitely

[@-johnny-deep-]

She still looks hot, and it seems hasn't vainly ruined herself with plastic surgery.

[@maxpayne2574]

Yes who do they think their fooling plastic filler and paralyzed faces look like hell

[@JohnSmith-mg5ve]

lonnie looks so much better, clean out your eyes

[@kevinpatrick8788]

John Smith loni just had a better plastic surgeon as well as severe botox overload .

[@tomryan914]

Like that freak Linda Evans...

[@graememceachren1118]

Wanna talk bad surgery? Former Catwoman Julie Newmar. Spend the extra money, so you don’t have to get a disbarred veterinarian to go at your face with a can opener!

[@cindydufala7646]

WKRP great show. Entire cast was great.

[@giancarlomoscetti215]

There is something about the look of Jan that captures, in my opinion, the 'perfect face'. Look at other beautiful women like Jo Ann Harris or Susan Dey...they have that SAME look. Beautiful...just beautiful.

[@MrBighairyass]

Giancarlo Moscetti ... Connie Needham was hot as well...

[@dougdavidson3260]

Susan Dey never worked for me. Bailey did and so did Mary Ann from Gilligan.

[@Kang2112]

She totally blew Lonny out of the water as far as I'm concerned. So beautiful.

[@dougiedorite8296]

Not to down Loni, but she was NEVER in Jan's category.

[@lindsey607]

True that boss.

[@scottricklaroque7428]

I was in my young teens then and surrounded by 20-somethings who all fawned over Loni but I didn't see it, Jan was prettier to me and more real I guess you would say, but however you put it I think Jan was 100x sexier than Loni. No contest. It was the same in Charlie's Angels, Farrah got all the attention but damn, Jacklyn was so much prettier it was ridiculous.

[@dougiedorite8296]

Yeah, guess most agree that a show pony just can't compare to a perfect quarter horse. Lol

[@freeguy77]

@@scottricklaroque7428 Right on both Jan and Jaclyn! BTW, her first name as spelled on her birth certificate is "Jacquelyn", compared to the usual Jacqueline, as Jackie Kennedy spelled it. Either of those two spelling options is extremely sexy and one of the best names for the feminine gender. Jaclyn is good for sex appeal, but doesn't quite have the "it' factor that the other 2 spellings have. Maybe it's the QU in the other names that make it seem more desirable and sexier.

[@tomryan914]

@@freeguy77 "A rose by any other..."

[@waelse1]

She was the main attraction of the show. Nice vid!

[@theinvisibleman2194]

Agreed.

[@justralphajerseyguystuckin3671]

Thanks for making and sharing this Tribute Video, I felt the same way about Jan, and couldn't keep my eyes off her. I Loved WKRP and the rest of the cast as well... it was one of my All- Time Favorite Sitcoms- Ever !

[@josemontano7767]

I alway thought she was way hotter then Jeniffer on WKRP

[@stevejohnson1685]

My wife and I really enjoyed WKRP when it was first on the air, and we both appreciated how the ensemble really coalesced around Jan's portrayal of Bailey Quarters. We happened to see her in the airport some years later, and had a very pleasant, very low-key conversation. A genuinely nice person!

[@allergyahead8128]

She was WKRPs Maryanne. The one most guys would want in reality smokin!

[@rwspal]

WKRP was one of my favorite TV shows, and I fell in love with Bailey Quarters. Watched her more than Loni Anderson. Thanks for this look at Jan Smithers. Gave me a smile.

[@jdsundstrom]

You're welcome, Rwspal! I'm glad the video gave you a smile!

[@josephdodd5770]

She was so much better looking than Jennifer and she didn’t look so fake like Loni Anderson

[@Qusin111]

100% no one get past the war paint

[@jonkidd6151]

An enjoyable entertaining informative video!❤ I've seen every episode of WKRP In Cincinnati!❤ One of my favorite TV shows!❤

[@timothyhays1817]

Jan had that nature girl next door look.

[@richardlewis7471]

Like Ginger vs Maryanne

[@imdeplorable2241]

Yep. Just look at her sitting on that Honda. She looks just like some of the girls in my high school. Or, a girl in the neighborhood ... or, next door. But, Bailey Quarters is who I wanted to date.

[@samiam619]

Mike T Great! Now I have to look her up on Wikipedia to see where she went to H.S. and when...

[@rockinmosquito]

I agree with you 100%. Jan was and still is beautiful. Even the nerds, and the geeks, would feel comfortable walking up and talking to her. It makes me happy, that she is so happy today.

[@siggyretburns7523]

Jans hot

[@sandyharwell8471]

Great presentation, thank you, Dave! I loved Jan from the get-go! Bailey was always my favorite. I was absolutely in love with her. With a cast as quirky as the WKRP ensemble, one couldn't help but enjoy all of them. I was a radio guy in NC in the early '70's and really identified with this show. Next favorite to her, I would go with Tim Reid. My favorite episode of his was when he admitted his desertion from the Army as Gordon Sims. That one was pretty heavy for a comedy show, but was offset by creative writing when Venus claimed the Big Guy (Gordon Jump) as his father, etc. Damn CBS for prematurely pulling that show.

[@jdsundstrom]

Thanks for the kind words and encouragement, Sandy. WKRP was/is a pretty darn special show. A lot of it had to do with the great cast...but the writing was really excellent as well. You're right, it was cancelled way too soon. I can't remember why the plug was pulled but I can only assume it was due to sagging ratings.

[@bobjohnson205]

@@jdsundstrom Yes, I think ratings had a lot to do with it. The writing wasn't always the best and they had some great episodes, but they also had some real turkeys! (No pun intended! lol)

[@widgetsmom1946]

I loved Jans Baily best! I had the pleasure and honor to say that "Where the Liliys Bloom" was filmed in and around my hometown and know her stand-in. Please, I'm not trying to brag. Just stating how fortunate I am.

[@JeffFrmJoisey]

Bailey was my favorite, followed by Dr. Johnny Fever, Less Nessman and the Big Guy! Thanks for her bio, I never took the time to look it up, but I do remember those ads she was in once I saw them again!!

[@olddragguy]

Bailey Quarters Wow! I also had a crush on her. She seemed to be a laid back and beautiful girl in my mind?

[@tracer0017]

I remember watching this show when it aired and always thought Jan was gorgeous. Could never get enough of her as a teen : )

[@dennisjudd7550]

Jan Smithers,and Howard Hessman Baily Quarters and Dr. Johnny Fever respectfully, were my favorite on WKRP, and the Thanksgiving show is my favorite of all time! I cry with laughter every time I watch it! My favorite line was,"as God is my witness I thought turkeys​ could fly"!!

[@rolanddeschain965]

Oh the horror....so funny!

[@bobjohnson205]

@@rolanddeschain965 Oh, the humanity! lol

[@rolanddeschain965]

@@bobjohnson205 my bad , i got the hindenberg disaster , apocalypse now , and wkrp in cincinnatti mixed up!

[@bobjohnson205]

@@rolanddeschain965 Not to forget 'Seinfeld'. J. Peterman: "The horror! The horror!" lol

[@carmium]

"The turkeys are hitting the ground like sacks of wet cement!"

[@mauricedrew3150]

i wonder why Jan Smithers never became a bigger star. May be she never wanted to be. She was such a beautiful woman and pure talent who came across on TV as a natural. I did not know she was a model before WKRP. Have a wonderful life Ms. Smithers.

[@jdsundstrom]

I think you're right. I don't think she wanted to be a "big star".

[@johngomez8525]

Thank you so much . I grew up on television . It was my time. It was my fantasy . It was how I absorbed reality before my time . To relive my favorite characters thru your narration brings me joy. Again... thank you !

[@itsalgud1459]

WKRP is one of the best sitcoms ever, and the most underrated. The writing and the cast were superb. And O, boy,I was in love with Jan from the gitgo. Not only was she a stunning beauty, but very real and seemingly approachable. When I saw the title of this video, I hoped she had had a happy and purposeful life and she has, and I’m still in love. 😍

[@Book-Gnome]

Jan > Lonnie for sure, just like Maryanne > Ginger

[@frank2778]

Wait a minute, cowboy. I agree with the first statement, but not the second. C'mon, Ginger was HOT!!!! Only Math teachers use those signs. I've had relationships with blow up dolls that had better looks and personality than Anderson.

[@Book-Gnome]

@@frank2778 Nurses use those signs too. I agree about Loni, she was plastic so comparing to a blow up doll is perfect. BUT, there is NO known universe in which Ginger is greater than Mary Anne.

[@EchoSigma6]

Careful of the quiet and reserved ones...

[@freeguy77]

@@frank2778 We don't need to know your social crowd! LMAO! As for the Math teaching, I enjoy seeing > < = or other well-known symbols of that great and under-appreciated category of academia and life!

[@carolynnunes3922]

Another great and laudatory show, Dave. You always have the nicest and most positive things to say about people! 👏🏾🙏🥰👋🏾😇👍🏾

[@ralphchristianson]

The whole team were a great bunch of radio folks, always were very entertaining.

[@nicktant1756]

So incredibly the "Girl next door " hotness!!!!!

[@tamaskiss1930]

Wow thank you for this. I miss these people so very much. Your film brings back the most wonderful memories. Also as you're a fan as well, just makes it all even more special. Thank you.

[@jdsundstrom]

Wow! Thank you, Tamas Kiss!

[@billmackie8226]

I Always Loved Jan Smithers on WKRP, especially Bailey's wanna-be relationship with Dr. Johnny Fever

[@Slowmodem1]

It's hard to pick a favorite from a show, as it is hard to pick a favorite show. Jan was certainly beautiful, but in a way it was the Ginger/Mary Anne thing again. WKRP is in top 5 all-time shows for sure. Thanks for doing this. I really enjoyed it. Greg in TN

[@dxxt136]

Thank you Dave. Ohh you torcher my soul trying to pick a favourite from the show because they were all loved by me. Thank you

[@jdsundstrom]

Agreed. It's tough to pick a favorite!

[@89CrazyAl]

Yup. Hotter than Lonnie Anderson. Definitely.

[@Wolfsky9]

What surprised me, is how the 2 ladies got along--------------totally different, they were never rivals. -----------------WolfSky9, 73 y/o

[@stanleyban]

Hi Dave, Thank you so very much for posting this and your other videos!! I enjoy them all thoroughly! Your videos are all warm, informative and nice to view, seeing our favorite stars as they were and really are today. Thanks again!!!

[@jdsundstrom]

You are most welcome! I am glad you are enjoying my videos, stanleyban!

[@dawnuwangue6061]

I loved the relationship between Venus and Dr. Johnny Fever. Their antics made me laugh

[@jdsundstrom]

Me too, Dawn!

[@TheHankPotter]

LOl, the coke for play episode. Carlson mistakingly thought the coke was foot powder. When he found out he said 'Les, I got a monkey on my foot'. lol

[@Nhamp2000]

Thanks for posting this. Glad to see that she seems happy and has great memories of WKRP. One of the best shows ever and didn't get to go out the way it should have.

[@ToddtheExploder]

Does anyone remember a short-lived show entitled “Buffalo Bill”? It featured Dabney Coleman and a young Geena Davis and was one of the funniest shows I’ve ever seen.

[@jdsundstrom]

Yep. It ran for two seasons on NBC. Dabney Coleman was great on the show.

[@stivendog]

Dabney's character came from his role in the movie "9-5" if I remember right.

[@jimtownsend7899]

So YOU were the one!

[@hankkingsley2976]

Slap Maxwell

[@Botwin66]

Don't forget Joanna Cassidy. She had a smooth sultry quality that I really enjoyed.

[@ronaldschild157]

Thank you for putting this together. I recall the story of Jan Smithers now that your presentation woke up some of my dormant brain cells. I've seen that magazine cover before somewhere. In your closing, you mentioned your fondness for Gordon "The Big Guy" Jump . . . I have a great (true) story where I met Gordon Jump: He was in town promoting Maytag appliances as the "Maytag Repairman" - complete with the uniform - at a big electronics retailer in my area. I won't name the retailer, but it rhymes with "Try's". Anyway, he wasn't just there for his pitch, it turned out "Try's" used to hold a semi-regular fundraiser selling a hot dog and a Coke for 25 cents (everything went to charity), Maytag Repairman Gordon was in the line for his contribution and that's when I had the opportunity to ask for his autograph. He motioned to me to turn around so he could use my back as the writing surface. And get this, without me asking, he finished off his signature with " . . . WKRP"! I'll never forget that experience and, although he passed away now, remember him best for that.

[@jdsundstrom]

I'm a big fan of Gordon Jump's work, Ronald! More on that in a future video. For now, I'm just happy to hear that my little video helped wake up a few dormant brain cells. That's something I keep trying to do for myself without much success!

[@noahpartic7586]

Gen X from '72 here. 2:35 I watched WKRP on CBS & I don't recall ever seeing such a record player before Tuesday 7-2-24. Looks ok, like the cast pics on it. 🤔Fascinating.

[@joeboyko8013]

Oh, Baily Quarters... *_Meeee-ooooww._*