With a twitch of her nose, the late actress Elizabeth Montgomery charmed her way into the hearts of millions as the enchanting Samantha Stephens on Bewitched. But her influence extended far beyond her magical on-screen antics. As a trailblazer in Hollywood, Elizabeth used her considerable platform to tackle important social issues, combining her acting prowess with a deep commitment to activism.
Rise from Hollywood Lineage
Born into Hollywood royalty as the daughter of actor Robert Montgomery, Elizabeth didn’t just rely on her lineage to make a mark. Her early work on shows like Alfred Hitchcock Presents and The Twilight Zone highlighted her ability to dive into diverse characters, setting the stage for her iconic role in Bewitched.
Starring in Bewitched
In Bewitched, Elizabeth brought to life the character of Samantha, a witch living in suburbia who preferred love and laughter to using her powers. Her portrayal was not only humorous but also subtly subversive, challenging the era’s gender norms and expectations through her character’s daily dilemmas and decisions. The show’s success was not only a testament to her acting skills but also to her ability to resonate with the American public during a time of significant social change.
Choosing Roles that Spoke Volumes
After the series ended, Elizabeth chose roles that tackled serious issues head-on. Her powerful performances in A Case of Rape and The Legend of Lizzie Borden not only garnered acclaim but also spurred conversations on sensitive topics, demonstrating her commitment to roles that mattered. These performances were pivotal in shaping public discourse about violence against women and the judicial system, showcasing her breadth as an actress and an advocate.
Marriages and Family Life
Elizabeth’s personal life was marked by her relationships and family. She married four times, each union reflecting a different phase of her life. Her first marriage to New York socialite Frederick Gallatin Cammann was short-lived. She then married actor Gig Young, followed by producer-director William Asher, with whom she had three children. This partnership was significant, coinciding with her Bewitched years and was her longest marriage. After their divorce, she married actor Robert Foxworth, with whom she lived until her death.
Off-Screen Activism
Elizabeth’s off-screen life was filled with the same passion she brought to her roles. She was deeply involved in various causes, using her fame to advocate for civil rights and AIDS research, and was known for her ability to inspire action in others. Her Bewitched co-star Dick Sargent, who shared her passion for advocacy, once said, “Elizabeth was fearless when it came to her beliefs, always ready to stand up for what was right, even when it was not popular” (Sargent, 1995).
Broadening Horizons
Beyond her acting and activism, Elizabeth had a rich personal life filled with hobbies and interests that connected her to a wider community. She was an avid gardener and an animal lover, often spending her free time tending to her garden or caring for her pets. Her home was a reflection of her eclectic tastes, filled with art and memorabilia from her travels around the world.
Passing and Legacy
Elizabeth Montgomery died on May 18, 1995, from colorectal cancer, diagnosed just eight weeks before her death. She was 62. Her passing was deeply felt across the entertainment industry and by all who were moved by her humanitarian efforts.
More than a Witch
Remembered for more than just her witchy charm, Elizabeth Montgomery’s legacy as a pioneering actress and dedicated activist continues to influence and inspire. She showed that with a bit of magic—and a lot of hard work—you can truly make a difference. Her life reminds us of the power of using one’s talents and platform to fight for a better world.
Sources for Further Reading
- Pilato, Herbie J. Twitch Upon a Star: The Bewitched Life and Career of Elizabeth Montgomery. Taylor Trade Publishing, 2012.
- Sargent, Dick. Interview about Elizabeth Montgomery, People Magazine, 1995.
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