Ann-Margret: A Love Story That Endured—How She Cared for Her Husband, and His Death Shattered Her Heart

Ann-Margret is a name that resonates with timeless beauty, incredible talent, and unmatched warmth. From her early career as a rising star to becoming a beloved icon, her life is a testament to passion, resilience, and love. Known for her fiery beauty and undeniable talent, Ann-Margret captured the hearts of millions, including her famously electric romance with Elvis Presley. Yet, despite her star-studded career, Ann-Margret believes her greatest accomplishment was found not on screen, but in the love she shared with her husband, Roger Smith.

The Hollywood Queen with a Heart of Gold

Whether it was her captivating performances in films like Bye Bye Birdie and Viva Las Vegas, or her more recent musical ventures—like her 2023 debut rock album, Born to Be Wild—Ann-Margret has always been a symbol of grace, beauty, and talent. But beyond her professional success, it’s her authenticity and genuine character that have made her a favorite among fans worldwide.

Ann-Margret’s connection to her Swedish roots and her grounded nature set her apart in Hollywood’s glamorous world. Unlike many stars who try to reinvent themselves, Ann-Margret’s beauty remained natural and unpretentious, a refreshing contrast to the industry’s often fleeting trends. She continues to inspire audiences with her incredible work ethic, deep humor, and genuine charm.

A Life-Altering Romance: Ann-Margret Meets Roger Smith

Although Ann-Margret’s love life has always been the subject of much fascination, it was Roger Smith—her husband of over 50 years—that truly captured her heart. Known for his striking looks and his role in TV classics like 77 Sunset Strip and Mister Roberts, Roger Smith was a heartthrob of his own right. But it wasn’t easy for him to win over Ann-Margret.

Roger once shared that he was accustomed to women throwing themselves at him, but Ann-Margret was different. “Every other woman I met was falling all over me, but she was calm and composed. She only spoke to me when I spoke to her,” he recalled. It was a moment of mutual respect, trust, and attraction, and by their third date, Ann-Margret knew Roger was the man she had been searching for. “I knew he would protect me,” she said, “I knew I could depend on him.”

The Marriage that Defined Her Life

Ann-Margret and Roger Smith’s wedding in 1967 was a small, intimate affair, but it was far from perfect. The ceremony, held at the Riviera Hotel in Las Vegas, was marred by Ann-Margret’s tears. She later admitted to People magazine that it wasn’t the wedding she had envisioned. Despite the rocky start, their marriage blossomed into one of Hollywood’s most enduring unions.

Roger not only became her husband but also her manager, supporting her through every step of her career. His belief in her raw talent helped Ann-Margret move beyond her “sex kitten” image, leading her to more complex and rewarding roles, including her critically acclaimed performance in Carnal Knowledge (1971). Roger’s guidance and unwavering support allowed Ann-Margret to grow both personally and professionally.

Challenges: Addiction, Injury, and Heartbreak

As with any great love story, Ann-Margret’s journey was not without its challenges. In the 1970s, she struggled with addiction to pills and alcohol, and in 1972, she suffered a life-altering accident. While performing at the Sahara Hotel in Lake Tahoe, Ann-Margret fell from a 22-foot platform, shattering nearly every bone in her face. She underwent extensive facial reconstructive surgery and spent weeks recovering, but just ten days after the accident, she triumphantly returned to the stage, riding her Harley-Davidson and dazzling her audience once again.

During this time, Roger was her rock. When she was rushed to the hospital, he piloted a plane to ensure she received immediate care, never leaving her side throughout the recovery process.

Roger’s Illness and Ann-Margret’s Devotion

In the 1980s, Roger Smith’s health took a dramatic turn. Diagnosed with myasthenia gravis, an incurable neuromuscular disease, Roger faced tremendous physical challenges. Ann-Margret stepped back from her career to care for him, showing a level of devotion few could ever understand. “If one of you has a broken wing, the other takes over,” she said, speaking of her commitment to him during this difficult time.

Though Roger’s condition affected both their personal and professional lives, Ann-Margret remained by his side, supporting him through every hardship. In 1985, when his condition went into remission, the couple tried to start a family, but despite their best efforts, they were unable to conceive.

The Final Goodbye

Roger Smith’s battle with Parkinson’s disease and myasthenia gravis ultimately took his life in 2017. Ann-Margret was devastated by his death, but she found solace in the love they had shared. “We were together night and day,” she said, “We loved each other, and we were always in each other’s corner.”

Before his death, Ann-Margret had to take a break from her career to care for him, but she continued to speak with great pride about their life together. "When I look back at my life, I am most proud of my marriage," she shared. "It worked because we both wanted it to work."

A Timeless Portrait of Love

One of the most touching images of Ann-Margret and Roger is a photo from January 1, 1985, taken at a high-profile event in New York. The image captured the couple radiating elegance, yet there’s a subtle awareness of the trials they faced. Roger’s battle with illness was evident, but the deep bond they shared is undeniable. This photograph serves as a reminder of their strength, their love, and the legacy they built together.

A Legacy of Love and Strength

Ann-Margret’s story is a testament to the power of love and the strength it gives us in times of adversity. Her unwavering commitment to her husband, Roger Smith, during his illness is one of the most beautiful chapters of her life. As we reflect on their enduring love story, it’s clear that Ann-Margret’s greatest achievement wasn’t her Hollywood career, but the love she gave and received.

Share this beautiful, timeless love story with those who appreciate the lasting power of love, and remember the legacy that Ann-Margret and Roger Smith have left behind.