The 1960s era saw the rise of a television phenomenon that captivated audiences and has endured as a timeless classic. “Bewitched,” a show about a glamorous witch trying to live a normal life, has become a cultural touchstone, and its lead actress Elizabeth Montgomery has become an indelible figure in the world of entertainment. But behind the magic on the screen lay the life of a talented actress whose journey was as fascinating as the characters she portrayed.
Elizabeth Montgomery was born on April 15, 1933, in Los Angeles, and her roots were immersed in the performing arts, with her father being the acclaimed actor Robert Montgomery. Her passion for acting soon blossomed, fueled by her father’s encouragement and support, paving the way for her illustrious career.
“My father claims that when I was younger I used to jump on his lap after dinner and proclaim my intention to become an actor. The actor told the Los Angeles Times in a 1954 meeting: “I don’t know if he supported me. but he let me know that he would go with me, and encourage me to be careful what happens when I grow up.’
“I’ll be honest and say that my dad helped me get my break in TV and I truly appreciate his guidance and support. He’s a fantastic father, my toughest critic, and a true friend.” Before appearing on several other shows, Montgomery made her television debut as a teenager on her father’s program Robert Montgomery Presents.
At the age of 20, this gorgeous actress made her Broadway debut in Late Love. Two years later she was in The Court-Martial of Billy Mitchell. After his rise to fame, Montgomery starred in several other films. Her best-known role is in Bewitched, but she also appeared in other films such as Mrs. Sundance (1973), The Rape Case (1974), The Lizzie Borden Story (1975), The Black Widow Murders (1993), The Body Had a Familiar Face ( 1994) and Deadline for Murder: From the Files of Edna Buchanan (1995).
“I never thought about doing a series because I preferred to pick a script I liked with a person I thought I could hold for 60 minutes.” Montgomery told the Associated Press in 1965 that “in a series, you just hope you don’t go crazy living with one character every day”.
The actress was married four times. She then married prominent actor Gig Young; nevertheless, they parted ways in 1963. While filming Johnny Cool, Montgomery met William Asher, her third husband, with whom she had three children. Her fourth husband, Robert Foxworth, stood by her side until her death.
Elizabeth was the first Queen of TV movies before Lindsay Wagner, Valerie Bertinelli, and Jane Seymour. Herbie J. Pilato, who has written two volumes about the actress, says that “she went from queen of the witches to queen of the TV movie, and breaking away from Bewitched was no longer a struggle.”
When Montgomery died in 1995, she believed she had beaten colon cancer. By the time she was diagnosed, the cancer had spread to her liver and it was too late. She died quietly in her sleep, surrounded by her husband and daughters. Her ashes were scattered at Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles.
Elizabeth Montgomery was a great actress. We still miss him very much. Elizabeth Montgomery’s multi-faceted career and captivating performances have carved a lasting legacy in entertainment history. Her portrayal of Samantha Stephens in the beloved series “Bewitched” cemented her as an icon of the golden era of television. Montgomery’s ability to infuse her characters with humor, charm, and wit resonated deeply with audiences around the world, making her a household name. Despite her unexpected and untimely passing in 1995, her influence and impact on the entertainment landscape live on.
From her beginnings in the theater, Montgomery displayed a remarkable talent that transcended the medium. Her transition from the Broadway stage to the big screen, where she starred in various films, showed her adaptability and range as an actress. However, it was her role as the glamorous witch on “Bewitched” that cemented her status as a television legend.
Montgomery’s personal life, marked by several marriages and dedication to her craft, revealed her commitment to both family and career. Her dedication to roles along with her innate talent earned her a place in the hearts of audiences who found solace and joy in her performances.
Her death in 1995 from colon cancer, which tragically spread to her liver, left a deep void in the entertainment industry. The loss was deeply felt by fans and colleagues who mourned the passing of a talented, kind-hearted, and respected individual. Montgomery’s memory lives on because of her tireless work, her influence on television, and the enduring affection of her admirers.
Elizabeth Montgomery’s contributions to entertainment remain a valued part of television history to this day. Her versatility, dedication, and the endearing characters she brought to life continue to captivate audiences and ensure her legacy lives on as a testament to her brilliance and enduring talent. She may have gone too soon, but her presence in the hearts of her fans remains eternal.