Victoria Smurfit: The Complete Biography of the Irish Star Redefining Modern Television
Few actresses embody elegance, versatility and longevity the way Victoria Smurfit does. With a career spanning more than two decades across Ireland, the United Kingdom and the United States, she has become a familiar face in drama, fantasy, crime thrillers and contemporary television. Her commanding performances in Ballykissangel, Trial & Retribution, Dracula, Once Upon a Time and most recently Rivals have cemented her as one of Ireland’s most celebrated acting exports.
Yet her story is far more than a list of roles. It is a narrative of resilience, reinvention, family devotion and the ability to stay gracefully grounded despite a high-profile backdrop.
Early Life and Background of Victoria Smurfit
Victoria Smurfit was born on 31 March 1974 in Dublin, Ireland, into the prominent Smurfit family, well known for its contributions to business and philanthropy. Her father, Dermot Francis Smurfit, and her mother, Caroline Smurfit, raised her in a culturally rich environment where individuality and creativity were encouraged.
Despite being part of one of Ireland’s most influential families, Victoria has always emphasised that her career is a product of her own dedication and passion, not privilege. Her upbringing instilled confidence and independence, shaping the foundation for her future in the performing arts.
Victoria Smurfit Education and Path to Acting
From an early age, Victoria was drawn to acting. She pursued her artistic interests with determination, eventually enrolling at the prestigious Bristol Old Vic Theatre School in the United Kingdom. This institution has shaped some of the finest performers in British theatre and screen history, and Victoria embraced her training with enthusiasm.
Her education at Bristol Old Vic strengthened her understanding of character development, stagecraft and emotional authenticity — skills that would later define her screen performances. The school not only polished her natural talent but also gave her a solid professional grounding that prepared her for international success.
Victoria Smurfit Age: A Timeless Force at 51
As of 2025, Victoria Smurfit is 51 years old. Her career illustrates that age in the creative arts is not a limitation but an asset — bringing depth, nuance and maturity to her roles. Whether portraying villains, heroines or complex middle-aged women, she brings a distinctive strength and charm to every performance.
Her age also reflects her evolution: from young Irish starlet to accomplished international actress, from mother to newly married wife, and from performer to mentor and content creator.
The Rise of a Star: Victoria Smurfit Career Journey
Victoria Smurfit Career Overview
Victoria’s career is marked by versatility, longevity and international reach. She has performed in film, television, radio, and stage, proving her ability to adapt to different genres, audiences and production styles.
Below is an in-depth look at her professional milestones, including her most iconic performances.
Breakthrough Roles: Ballykissangel and Early Success
Ballykissangel and the Birth of a Star
Victoria’s breakthrough came in the late 1990s with the role of Orla O’Connell in the beloved BBC drama Ballykissangel. Her charming presence and relatable portrayal of a strong, independent woman made her an instant favourite among viewers. This early success opened doors across British television and transformed her from a rising actress into a recognisable name.
Establishing Authority: Trial & Retribution
Detective Chief Inspector Roisin Connor
One of Victoria’s most defining roles came in Trial & Retribution, where she played DCI Roisin Connor. Her performance was commanding, emotionally layered and authentic, showcasing her ability to lead a series with authority.
The character established Victoria as a powerful dramatic actress capable of delivering intensity and vulnerability in equal measure. She remained a core face of the series for several years, earning high praise from both audiences and critics.
International Recognition: Dracula and Once Upon a Time
Lady Jayne Wetherby in Dracula
In 2013, Victoria expanded her global reach when she joined the NBC American drama Dracula, playing the fierce and seductive Lady Jayne Wetherby. This performance introduced her to a new international audience and showcased her versatility in both period drama and supernatural storytelling.
Cruella de Vil in Once Upon a Time
Victoria achieved widespread international acclaim for her unforgettable portrayal of Cruella de Vil in ABC’s Once Upon a Time. Her version of the iconic villain was witty, glamorous, wickedly fun and instantly adored by fans.
She delivered one of the show’s most memorable performances, blending elegance with delightful wickedness.
Returning to British Screens: Rivals
Maud O’Hara in Rivals
In 2024, Victoria returned to British television as Maud O’Hara in Rivals, the Disney+ adaptation of Jilly Cooper’s novel. The role reaffirmed her status as a compelling and charismatic screen presence. Her comedic timing, charm and expressive acting contributed significantly to the show’s popularity and critical success.
Victoria Smurfit Movies and Film Work
Although best known for her television roles, Victoria has appeared in numerous films. Her movie credits include:
Notable Victoria Smurfit Movies
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Bulletproof Monk (2003) – as Nina
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About a Boy (2002) – as Suzie
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The Beach (2000) – as the Weather Reporter
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The Wedding Tackle (2000) – as Sophie Georgina
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Deadly Cuts (2021) – as Pippa
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Among Ravens (2014) – as Emma
Her movie roles reflect her ability to adapt to drama, comedy, thriller and action genres.
Victoria Smurfit Husband: A Private but Beautiful Love Story
Who Is Victoria Smurfit’s Husband?
In December 2023, Victoria Smurfit married her long-term partner Steve Jacobs, an English businessman. Although she affectionately refers to him publicly as “Himself”, the identity was later confirmed through media coverage.
Their wedding took place at the exquisite Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa in Bath, England. Victoria wore a stunning gown designed by Sassi Holford, and the celebration was intimate, elegant and deeply personal.
Victoria Smurfit Ex-Husband
Before her marriage to Steve Jacobs, Victoria was married to Douglas Baxter, an advertising executive.
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Married: 2000
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Divorced: 2015
Their marriage lasted 15 years and produced three children. Despite the separation, Victoria and Douglas remain amicable co-parents and maintain mutual respect.
Victoria Smurfit Children: A Devoted Mother
Victoria is a loving mother to three children from her first marriage:
Evie Dorothy Baxter – born 2004
Ridley Belle Baxter – born 2007
Flynn Alexander Baxter – born 2008
Her social media often reflects her deep affection for them, celebrating birthdays, achievements and family milestones with warmth and pride.
Victoria Smurfit Parents and Family Heritage
Victoria’s parents are Dermot Francis Smurfit and Caroline Smurfit, who raised her in a supportive, culturally rich home. Being part of the influential Smurfit family, she grew up surrounded by ambition and accomplishment. However, she has consistently built her own path in the arts, forging her career through passion and dedication.
Victoria Smurfit Net Worth
While Victoria does not publicly disclose her financial details, her long and active career in television and film, combined with her family background, contributes to an estimated net worth between £3 million and £7 million.
Her wealth is derived from:
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International TV roles
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Film appearances
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Creative projects
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Family heritage
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Brand-related collaborations
Public Image and Personality
Victoria Smurfit is admired not just for her talent but also for her character. She is often described as:
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Humorous and warm
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Stylish and elegant
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Down-to-earth despite fame
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Strong, witty and articulate
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A supportive friend and devoted mother
Her Instagram presence reflects joy, humour, travel adventures and glimpses into her creative life.
Victoria Smurfit Movies and TV Shows
Victoria Smurfit has appeared in a wide range of acclaimed movies and television series throughout her career. On television, she is best known for her breakout role as Orla O’Connell in Ballykissangel, her powerful performance as DCI Roisin Connor in Trial & Retribution, and her internationally praised portrayal of Cruella de Vil in Once Upon a Time. She has also starred in major productions such as Dracula and the 2024 Disney+ hit Rivals, where she plays Maud O’Hara.
In film, Victoria has featured in titles including Bulletproof Monk, About a Boy, The Beach, The Wedding Tackle, Among Ravens, and the Irish comedy Deadly Cuts. Her body of work highlights her versatility across drama, fantasy, comedy and action genres.
Conclusion: Victoria Smurfit’s Enduring Legacy
Victoria Smurfit stands as one of Ireland’s most iconic and enduring actresses. With a career that spans continents and genres, she continues to captivate audiences with her charm, talent and authenticity. Her personal life — a balance of privacy, deep love, family and fulfilment — adds a relatable dimension to her public persona.
From her early days in Dublin to her celebrated wedding in 2023 and her acclaimed role in Rivals, Victoria Smurfit remains a shining example of how talent, resilience and genuine character create a timeless legacy in the entertainment world.
