Martha Smith, born Martha Anne Smith on October 16, 1952, in Cleveland, Ohio, is a multifaceted American actress, model, and real estate broker who gained fame for her diverse work in both television and film. Best known for her role as Francine Desmond on the hit series Scarecrow and Mrs. King (1983–1987), Smith’s career has spanned several decades, during which she built a reputation as a versatile performer with strong comedic timing and a dynamic screen presence.
Beyond acting, Smith has also ventured into modeling, business, and real estate, showcasing her wide range of talents. Her journey from beauty pageants to iconic 1980s television star reflects her determination and adaptability in the entertainment industry, making her a notable figure in Hollywood.
Early Life and Modeling Career
Martha Smith was born in Cleveland, Ohio, but grew up in Michigan. She attended Michigan State University, where she majored in theater and earned a degree in English Literature. Her education laid the foundation for her future acting career, but her entry into the public spotlight came through modeling.
In the early 1970s, Smith’s beauty and charisma caught the attention of the modeling world. She became a successful model, posing for numerous magazines and appearing in print advertisements. In 1973, she was selected as Playboy magazine’s Playmate of the Month for July, a role that garnered her significant public attention. This exposure helped her transition into acting, as her appearances in Playboy opened doors in Hollywood, leading to auditions and acting opportunities. Despite the challenges of being typecast early on due to her modeling background, Smith quickly proved that she had acting chops to back up her stunning looks.
Transition to Acting and Early Roles
Smith’s acting career began in the mid-1970s when she moved to Los Angeles to pursue opportunities in television and film. Her early roles were primarily guest appearances on popular TV shows of the time, including Starsky & Hutch, The Love Boat, and Charlie’s Angels. These early roles helped her gain valuable on-screen experience and showcased her ability to handle a wide range of characters.
In 1978, Smith landed her breakout role in the iconic comedy film National Lampoon’s Animal House. Playing Babs Jansen, a member of the snooty sorority in the film, Smith’s comedic talents shone through. Animal House became a massive hit and remains a cultural touchstone, remembered for its irreverent humor and memorable performances. Although Smith’s role in the film was relatively small, it gave her a platform to demonstrate her comedic timing and laid the groundwork for more prominent roles in the future.
Scarecrow and Mrs. King: A Career-Defining Role
Martha Smith’s most recognized role came in 1983 when she was cast as Francine Desmond in the hit television series Scarecrow and Mrs. King. The show, which ran for four seasons, starred Kate Jackson and Bruce Boxleitner as Amanda King and Lee Stetson, a housewife and a secret agent who team up to solve high-stakes espionage cases. Smith’s character, Francine Desmond, was an important supporting character who worked alongside Lee Stetson in the intelligence agency.
Francine was portrayed as a confident and somewhat sassy intelligence operative, and Smith brought a blend of sophistication, humor, and toughness to the role. Throughout the series, Francine’s character often found herself in complex situations, balancing the serious nature of her job with moments of lightheartedness, particularly in her interactions with Lee and Amanda. Smith’s portrayal added depth to the show’s dynamic, as she expertly navigated the line between comedy and drama.
Fans appreciated Francine’s wit and elegance, and Smith’s performance helped make her a fan-favorite. Her role on Scarecrow and Mrs. King provided a platform for Smith to demonstrate her versatility as an actress, and it remains one of her most well-known and beloved performances. The show’s success and Smith’s portrayal of Francine continue to be fondly remembered by fans of 1980s television.
Post-Scarecrow and Mrs. King and Other Acting Work
After the conclusion of Scarecrow and Mrs. King in 1987, Martha Smith continued to work steadily in television and film. She appeared in guest roles on popular shows like Murder, She Wrote, Fantasy Island, and Knight Rider. Her ability to adapt to different genres—from drama to comedy to action—allowed her to maintain a strong presence in the industry.
Throughout the 1990s, Smith’s television work remained consistent, though she began to focus on other ventures outside of acting as well. While her acting roles became less frequent, she continued to be a familiar face on television, appearing in guest spots and TV movies. Her work during this time demonstrated her enduring appeal and skill as a performer.
Career Beyond Acting: Real Estate and Business Ventures
In the 1990s, Martha Smith made a significant career pivot into real estate. She earned her real estate license and began working as a successful broker in Southern California. Her business acumen and understanding of the competitive real estate market allowed her to build a strong reputation as a real estate professional, where she applied the same determination and focus that had characterized her acting career.
Smith’s transition from acting to real estate was smooth, and she became well-regarded in the Los Angeles real estate community. Her skills in negotiation, marketing, and client relations helped her thrive in the business, and she eventually became an in-demand real estate expert.
In addition to real estate, Smith also explored other business ventures, further demonstrating her versatility and entrepreneurial spirit. Her ability to succeed in both entertainment and business is a testament to her intelligence and drive, as she continually sought new challenges and opportunities throughout her career.
Personal Life and Legacy
Martha Smith has always been relatively private about her personal life, focusing more on her professional endeavors. However, it is well known that she has always been passionate about her interests outside of acting, particularly in the fields of education and business. She has been actively involved in various charitable causes over the years, lending her time and resources to organizations that support arts education and women’s empowerment.
Smith’s legacy in the entertainment industry is one of versatility and determination. From her early days as a model and Playboy Playmate to her breakthrough role in Animal House and her memorable performance on Scarecrow and Mrs. King, she has consistently proven her ability to excel in a variety of roles and fields. Her shift to real estate and success in that arena further highlights her adaptability and keen business sense.
For many fans, Martha Smith will always be remembered as Francine Desmond, the sharp and stylish intelligence operative from Scarecrow and Mrs. King. Her portrayal of Francine remains a beloved part of 1980s television history, and her contributions to the entertainment industry and beyond continue to be celebrated by her loyal fanbase. Martha Smith’s career is a testament to her talent, perseverance, and willingness to embrace new opportunities, making her an enduring figure in both Hollywood and the business world.