Ann-Margret Opens Up About Missing Her Late Husband Roger Smith Nearly Nine Years After His Passing
As Ann-Margret approaches her milestone 85th birthday on April 28, the iconic actress, singer, and dancer reflects on the profound impact of her 50-year marriage to late husband and manager Roger Smith. Despite her six decades in Hollywood, starring in musicals like “Bye Bye Birdie,” “Viva Las Vegas,” and “Tommy,” as well as dramas like “Carnal Knowledge” and “Magic,” Ann-Margret considers her enduring marriage as her greatest accomplishment.
Roger Smith, born in California in 1932, rose to TV stardom as private detective Jeff Spencer in “77 Sunset Strip” before health challenges forced him to step away from the screen. He and Ann-Margret first met in 1961 during his TV heyday, but their romance blossomed years later when they shared a deep connection that led to their decision to marry.
In 1967, the couple tied the knot in a simple civil ceremony in Las Vegas, with Smith leaving his acting career to manage Ann-Margret’s successful Hollywood trajectory. Ann-Margret fondly recalls how she instantly knew she would marry Smith after just three dates, emphasizing the deep sense of protection and dependence she felt with him.
Smith’s passing in 2017 left a void in Ann-Margret’s life, with the actress expressing how much she misses his sense of humor and the laughter they shared. Describing him as a sensitive and shy person, Ann-Margret cherishes the memories they created together during their 54 years of companionship.
While the couple did not have children of their own, Ann-Margret lovingly embraced Smith’s three children from his previous marriage, Tracey, Jordan, and Dallas, building a strong bond with them over the years. As she reflects on their enduring love story, Ann-Margret’s sentiments echo the depth of a connection that transcends time and encompasses a lifetime of shared joys and laughter.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.