Elizabeth Montgomery | Biography

Who is Elizabeth Montgomery?

Elizabeth Montgomery was a celebrated American actress, best known for her iconic role as Samantha Stephens in the hit television series "Bewitched". Born on April 15, 1933, to actor Robert Montgomery and actress Elizabeth Allen, she was immersed in the entertainment industry from an early age. Montgomery made her television debut in 1951 and garnered acclaim for her performances across various genres, including drama and comedy. However, it was her portrayal of the charming witch that won her heart and recognition, leading "Bewitched" to become one of the top-rated sitcoms during its run from 1964 to 1972.

Throughout her career, Montgomery received multiple Emmy nominations for her work, reflecting her talent and dedication to her craft. Following "Bewitched", she transitioned to more dramatic roles in television movies, engaging audiences with performances in projects such as "A Case of Rape" and "The Legend of Lizzie Borden". Beyond acting, Montgomery was a passionate advocate for various causes, including AIDS research, forming a significant part of her legacy. She continued to captivate audiences until her untimely passing on May 18, 1995, from colon cancer, leaving behind a rich legacy in Hollywood and the hearts of her fans.

Early Life and Education

Elizabeth Montgomery was born on April 15, 1933, in Los Angeles, California, into a family steeped in the performing arts. Her mother, actress Elizabeth Allen, and her father, Robert Montgomery, a prominent film star during Hollywood's golden age, greatly influenced her early exposure to the entertainment industry. Growing up in this environment, Montgomery developed a passion for acting and storytelling from a young age. She attended the Westlake School for Girls before transferring to the Spencer School in New York, where she further honed her dramatic skills, eventually enrolling in the Academy of Dramatic Arts.

Montgomery's education laid a solid foundation for her future acting career. While she exhibited talent on the stage early on, it wasn't until her television debut on her father's show, "Robert Montgomery Presents," in 1951 that she stepped into the limelight. Montgomery's drive to succeed in a highly competitive industry led her to pursue various theatrical opportunities, and her early roles in television dramas and Broadway productions significantly shaped her skills as an actress. The combination of her rich family background and diverse educational experiences played a crucial role in molding her into the iconic star she would become.

Acting Career and Breakthrough Role in Bewitched

Elizabeth Montgomery, born on April 15, 1933, was a versatile actress whose career spanned television and film. She made her debut in 1951 on her father's show, "Robert Montgomery Presents." Though she initially took to the stage and appeared in various television series such as "The Untouchables" and "The Twilight Zone," it was her engaging performances that garnered her recognition. Montgomery's talents were acknowledged with an Emmy nomination for her role in "The Untouchables," setting the stage for her breakthrough.

Her defining role came in 1964 when she was cast as Samantha Stephens in the beloved sitcom "Bewitched." Montgomery charmed audiences with her portrayal of the enchanting witch who struggled to balance her magical abilities with her responsibilities as a suburban wife, creating a delightful mix of humor and heart. The show quickly became a ratings success, dominating the television landscape for eight years. Montgomery’s performance earned her five Emmy nominations, solidifying her status as a television icon and setting the groundwork for a lasting legacy in entertainment.

Later Roles after Bewitched and Contributions

Elizabeth Montgomery, renowned for her iconic role in "Bewitched", continued to showcase her acting prowess in a variety of dramatic roles after the show's conclusion. In 1974, she starred in the critically acclaimed TV movie "A Case of Rape", which highlighted the sensitive topic of sexual assault and earned Montgomery significant recognition for her performance. She further captivated audiences with her portrayal of Lizzie Borden in "The Legend of Lizzie Borden" (1975), a role that demonstrated her ability to tackle complex characters. Additionally, her performance in "Black Widow Murders" (1993) and the poignant "The Corpse Had a Familiar Face" (1994) reinforced her versatility as an actress, proving that she could excel beyond her comedic beginnings.

Montgomery’s commitment to meaningful storytelling extended into the documentary realm as well. She lent her voice to "The Panama Deception" (1993), which received an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. Throughout her career, she remained dedicated to causes close to her heart, particularly the fight against AIDS. Her advocacy and fundraising efforts with AmFAR (The American Foundation for AIDS Research) highlighted her compassion and desire to raise awareness about the epidemic. Following her passing, her wardrobe was auctioned off to benefit AIDS charities, leaving a lasting legacy of activism that complemented her illustrious acting career. Through her contributions on screen and off, Elizabeth Montgomery remains an enduring figure in both entertainment and humanitarian efforts.

Personal Life: Married Four Times and Three Children

Elizabeth Montgomery experienced a vibrant personal life that mirrored the complexities of her acting career. Over the years, she was married four times, beginning with businessman Frederick Gallatin Cammann from 1954 to 1955. Shortly after, she tied the knot with actor Gig Young, a marriage that lasted from 1956 until their divorce in 1963. Montgomery's most notable relationship was with William Asher, the producer-director of her iconic show "Bewitched." Their marriage lasted from 1963 to 1973 and produced three children: Willy, Robert, and Rebecca Elizabeth. This period was pivotal in shaping her career, as Asher played a significant role in her success on television.

The end of her marriage to Asher marked a new chapter in Montgomery’s life. In 1975, she found companionship with actor Robert Foxworth, and they remained a couple until her passing in 1995. Throughout her life, family remained a cornerstone for Montgomery, as she often balanced her professional commitments while nurturing her relationship with her children. Her dedication to her family life exemplified her values and priorities beyond the screen. Montgomery was not only a beloved actress but also a devoted mother who worked to instill her passions and ideals in her children.

Net Worth and Earning: Final Years

In her final years, Elizabeth Montgomery saw a significant financial impact stemming from her iconic role as Samantha Stephens on the television series "Bewitched". The show not only enjoyed immense popularity during its original run from 1964 to 1972 but has also maintained a strong presence in syndication. This enduring appeal contributed to Montgomery's wealth, estimated to be around $20 million at the time of her passing in 1995. Much of her income was derived from residuals and merchandise associated with the beloved series, demonstrating how a single role can leave a lasting financial legacy for an actor.

Beyond her earnings from "Bewitched", Montgomery's later work in television movies solidified her reputation as a talented actress capable of tackling serious topics. Projects such as "A Case of Rape" and "The Legend of Lizzie Borden" showcased her dramatic range and drew considerable viewership, which often translated into financial rewards. Despite facing health challenges, she remained active in her career until her diagnosis with colon cancer in March 1995, further illustrating her dedication to her craft and her ability to generate income through her artistic pursuits even in her later years.