The world remembers Elizabeth Montgomery as the quintessential good witch, Samantha Stephens, from the beloved TV series Bewitched. Her portrayal of this charming character left an indelible mark on television history and earned her numerous accolades, including five Primetime Emmy Award nominations and four Golden Globe nominations. However, Montgomery's career extended far beyond Bewitched, showcasing her versatility as both a film and television actress.
A Look Back at Elizabeth Montgomery's Career
Elizabeth Victoria Montgomery was born into a show business family in 1933. Her father, Robert Montgomery, was a renowned screen actor, while her mother, Elizabeth Allen, was a Broadway actress. This background paved the way for Montgomery's early entry into the entertainment industry. She made her television debut in 1951 on her father's anthology series, Robert Montgomery Presents.
In the 1960s, Montgomery rose to fame with her role as Samantha Stephens in Bewitched, a role that became synonymous with her name. The sitcom aired from 1964 to 1972 and remains a classic in television history. After Bewitched ended its run, Montgomery transitioned into television films, where she continued to shine with critically acclaimed performances.
Montgomery's Legacy in Television Movies
Montgomery's post-Bewitched career saw her take on challenging roles in television movies. Notable among these were her portrayals of Ellen Harrod in A Case of Rape (1974) and Lizzie Borden in The Legend of Lizzie Borden (1975). Both performances earned her additional Emmy Award nominations, solidifying her reputation as a serious actress capable of tackling complex characters.
Her work in television movies also included notable titles such as Sins of the Mother, Face to Face, and Second Sight: A Love Story. Each project demonstrated Montgomery's commitment to quality and her ability to bring depth to every role she undertook.
Personal Life and Relationships
Montgomery's personal life was as rich and varied as her professional one. She was married four times, most famously to producer-director William Asher, with whom she had three children. Asher was also the director of Bewitched, adding a layer of personal significance to the show's success. Later in life, Montgomery married actor Robert Foxworth, with whom she shared a long and happy relationship until her passing in 1995.
Remembering Elizabeth Montgomery
Even after Bewitched concluded, Montgomery remained active in the entertainment industry, starring in several high-quality television movies. Her legacy lives on through her extensive body of work and her enduring influence on the medium of television. Fans continue to celebrate her contributions to film and television, ensuring that her memory remains vibrant and cherished.
Fifty years ago, on February 10, 1975, ABC aired The Legend of Lizzie Borden, a chilling television movie starring Elizabeth Montgomery. In this role, she portrayed the infamous axe murderess of Fall River, delivering a performance that was both haunting and memorable. Such projects exemplify Montgomery's willingness to take risks and explore diverse genres throughout her illustrious career.
Is Elizabeth Montgomery Still Alive?
Many fans wonder if Elizabeth Montgomery is still alive. Unfortunately, the iconic actress passed away in 1995 at the age of 62 due to breast cancer. Despite her untimely death, her work continues to inspire new generations of actors and viewers alike. Through reruns of Bewitched and the availability of her television movies on streaming platforms, Montgomery's charm and talent remain accessible to audiences worldwide.
For those eager to explore more of Elizabeth Montgomery's work, various streaming services offer a selection of her films and television appearances. Whether revisiting classics like Bewitched or discovering lesser-known gems such as The Victim or The Awakening Land, there is much to appreciate in her expansive catalog.
As we reflect on Elizabeth Montgomery's life and career, it becomes clear that her impact on the entertainment industry extends far beyond the role that made her famous. She was a trailblazer whose dedication to her craft set a standard for excellence that continues to resonate today.
