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Hollywood Icon Ann-Margret, 84, Reflects on 50-Year Marriage After Husband's Passing
The legendary actress opens up about her deep love and lasting partnership with her late husband, Roger Smith.
Apr. 19, 2026 at 8:23pm
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The vibrant textures and colors of Hollywood's golden age reflect the enduring love story of Ann-Margret and her late husband, Roger Smith.Las Vegas TodayAnn-Margret, the acclaimed actress known for films like "Bye Bye Birdie" and "Viva Las Vegas," has bravely shared her feelings about the passing of her husband of 50 years, Roger Smith. The couple met in 1961 and married in 1967, enjoying a long and loving partnership until Smith's death in 2017 at the age of 84. In a new interview, Ann-Margret reflects on their deep connection, Smith's sensitivity and humor, and the immense loss she still feels.
Why it matters
Ann-Margret and Roger Smith's 50-year marriage was a rarity in Hollywood, where celebrity unions often struggle to last. Their enduring partnership serves as an inspiring example of the power of true love and commitment, even in the face of the challenges that come with fame and the entertainment industry.
The details
Ann-Margret and Roger Smith met in 1961, though Smith was already married at the time. It would be several years before the two became romantically involved, but they eventually married in 1967 in a ceremony in Las Vegas. Smith, who had roles in shows like "77 Sunset Strip" and "Man of a Thousand Faces," also served as Ann-Margret's manager throughout their marriage. The couple remained devoted to each other until Smith's passing in 2017 at the age of 84, the same age Ann-Margret is now.
- Ann-Margret and Roger Smith met in 1961.
- Ann-Margret and Roger Smith married in May 1967 in Las Vegas.
- Roger Smith passed away on June 4, 2017 at the age of 84.
The players
Ann-Margret
An acclaimed actress known for her roles in films like "Bye Bye Birdie," "Viva Las Vegas," "Carnal Knowledge," and "Magic." She was married to Roger Smith for 50 years until his passing in 2017.
Roger Smith
An entertainment industry veteran with roles in shows like "77 Sunset Strip" and "Man of a Thousand Faces." He was Ann-Margret's husband of 50 years and also served as her manager.
What they’re saying
“I really am most proud of my marriage. Roger meant everything to me. We were together [a total of] 54 years. It just flew by because it was really good. I sure miss him! He took great care of me.”
— Ann-Margret
“Oh, God, I loved his sense of humor! Loved it. We would always talk about things that we had done and faux pas that we had made. We laughed a lot. I miss the laughter.”
— Ann-Margret
“He was very sensitive. He never really showed that to anybody [else]. It was something we shared. He was shy in communicating with people.”
— Ann-Margret
The takeaway
Ann-Margret and Roger Smith's enduring 50-year marriage serves as an inspiring example of the power of true love and commitment, even in the face of the challenges that come with fame and the entertainment industry. Their deep connection and unwavering support for one another is a testament to the importance of cherishing the special relationships in our lives.
