Won the 1983 Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award for "Best Lead Performance" for her work in the play "Last Summer at Bluefish Cove".

She has one child with her husband Richard Gilliland, a son named Connor Douglas Gilliland (b. October 25th 1989).

Graduated from Ballard High School in Seattle, Washington, in 1969.

Is a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority.

Was nominated for Broadway`s 2001 Tony Award as Best Actress (Play) for the George S. Kaufman - Moss Hart comedy, "The Man Who Came to Dinner."

Met her husband when he guest-starred on "Designing Women" (1986). Delta Burke arranged for the two to meet.

At age 13, Jean was diagnosed with diabetes. Originally planned to be a veterinarian, but got interested in theater during her senior year in high school. Studied theater at the University of Washington.

She is the 2nd of 4 children. Her parents were a teacher and a homemaker.

Left "Designing Women" (1986) in 1991 to pursue other projects and to focus on her family.

Appeared in original cast of the Broadway show, "Piaf," 1979. Also appeared at Atlanta`s Alliance Theatre, same year.