Elizabeth Montgomery became a household name and a global sensation, but her sudden passing left the world in shock. Known for her enchanting role as Samantha Stephens in the beloved TV series Bewitched, Montgomery captured hearts with her charm and iconic nose twitch. The show, which aired from 1964 to 1972, followed the whimsical story of a witch who marries an ordinary man and tries to live a normal life—a concept that resonated with millions.
Born on April 15, 1933, in Los Angeles, Montgomery was destined for stardom. Her parents were both prominent figures in the entertainment industry—her father, Robert Montgomery, was a celebrated actor, and her mother was a Broadway actress. Elizabeth often recalled how her father encouraged her dreams, even as a child. “I’d climb onto his lap and tell him I wanted to be an actress,” she once shared in an interview. “He was my biggest critic but also my greatest supporter.”
Montgomery’s career began early, with her television debut on her father’s show, Robert Montgomery Presents. By her 20s, she had made her Broadway debut and soon transitioned to film, starring in The Court-Martial of Billy Mitchell. However, it was her role in Bewitched that truly made her a star. Despite her success, Montgomery admitted she never imagined herself in a long-running series. “I liked the idea of exploring different characters,” she said. “But Samantha was special—she was someone I could live with for years.”
Off-screen, Montgomery’s life was just as eventful. She married four times, with her longest marriage being to director William Asher, with whom she had three children. Her final marriage to actor Robert Foxworth lasted until her death.
Tragically, Montgomery’s life was cut short in 1995 when she lost her battle with colon cancer. She had believed she was cancer-free, but the disease had spread to her liver by the time it was detected. She passed away peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by her loved ones.
Elizabeth Montgomery’s legacy as a trailblazing actress and a beloved TV icon endures. Her work continues to inspire, and she remains deeply missed by fans around the world.
