Actress, singer, and dancer Ann-Margret has captivated audiences on stage and screen since the 1960s. She is celebrated for her iconic roles in films such as Bye Bye Birdie, Viva Las Vegas, The Cincinnati Kid, Carnal Knowledge, and The Train Robbers. Over her illustrious career, Ann-Margret has earned five Golden Globe Awards and received nominations for two Academy Awards, two Grammy Awards, and six Emmy Awards. In 2010, she won a Primetime Emmy for Best Guest Appearance for her role in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.
Born on April 28, 1941, in Stockholm, Sweden, Ann-Margret immigrated to the United States with her family in 1946, eventually settling near Chicago, Illinois. She became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1949. A theater enthusiast during her time at New Trier High School in Winnetka, Illinois, she briefly attended Northwestern University in 1959 before leaving to pursue her passion for entertainment.
Ann-Margret’s rise to fame began in 1961, with her breakthrough role in the 1963 film Bye Bye Birdie. The following year, she starred alongside Elvis Presley in Viva Las Vegas, a film that solidified her stardom and sparked a brief romance with Elvis, who would remain a lifelong friend.
In 1965, while working on Once a Thief, Ann-Margret met her future husband, Roger Smith, best known for his role in the TV series 77 Sunset Strip. The couple began dating and married in 1967. Ann-Margret embraced her role as stepmother to Roger’s three children—Tracy, Jordan, and Dallas Smith—and later became a grandmother. Roger passed away in 2017, but Ann-Margret continues to cherish her family and remains a loving presence in their lives.
Now in her 80s, Ann-Margret remains an enduring symbol of talent and grace. Read on to discover what this legendary entertainer is up to today!
After the success of Bye Bye Birdie, Ann-Margret took on the lead role in Viva Las Vegas, where she starred alongside another legendary figure, whom she affectionately referred to as “E.P.” In an interview with CBS Sunday Morning, Ann-Margret recalled their first meeting. “It was kind of awkward,” she admitted. “We just said ‘Hi,’ but it was great.”
However, her flourishing career faced a devastating challenge in 1972. While performing in Lake Tahoe, Ann-Margret suffered a horrific accident, falling 22 feet from a platform and landing on her face. The fall left her with severe injuries, including a broken jaw, cheekbone, and arm, necessitating extensive reconstructive surgery.
During her recovery, Ann-Margret was overwhelmed by the support of her fans, who flooded her with letters of encouragement. Reflecting on that time in a 1983 interview with Roger Ebert, she said, “When I first started out, I was terrified performing in front of an audience—I’d look over their heads. Now, there’s a more personal connection. I believe some of those who wrote to me are in every audience. The accident taught me something, and I feel much freer on stage now.”
Remarkably, Ann-Margret made a full recovery and returned to performing just 10 weeks after the fall, demonstrating incredible resilience and determination. Her career continued to soar, and in 1975, she won a Golden Globe and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her role in Tommy.
The 1980s marked another milestone as she transitioned into television, where she earned Golden Globe Awards for her performances in Who Will Love My Children? and a remake of A Streetcar Named Desire. Her unwavering spirit and talent cemented her legacy as one of Hollywood’s most enduring stars.
In the early 1980s, Ann-Margret faced a profound challenge when her husband, Roger Smith, was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis, a progressive muscular disease. Doctors gave him a prognosis of just 10 years to live. The diagnosis was devastating for Ann-Margret, who shared with Roger Ebert at the time how deeply it affected her. “It really bothers me when he doesn’t have the energy to get out of bed, and there’s nothing I can do to help him,” she admitted.
Despite Roger’s condition, Ann-Margret cherished their partnership and the way they worked together. “For him, it worked. For me, it isn’t. One’s enough in the family,” she said, referring to Roger’s role as a producer. “He loves to engineer things, coordinate everything, and make it all happen on schedule. When it’s just Roger, me, and our choreographer, we’re happy—we really believe in putting on a great show.”
Their marriage faced numerous trials, including Ann-Margret’s near-fatal fall and Roger’s illness. Additionally, the couple was unable to have children of their own due to infertility. However, Ann-Margret embraced her role as stepmother to Roger’s three children from his previous marriage to Victoria Shaw. Through all the challenges, Ann-Margret described their relationship as deeply fulfilling. “It’s very simple, actually,” she said. “We both want it to work.”
Ann-Margret also battled personal demons, including struggles with alcohol. In an interview with The 700 Club, she reflected on her journey. “I dealt with it. You never really overcome it, but I dealt with it,” she said, adding, “I’ve been without it for 32 years. Deep inside, I’ve always had this feeling—my faith and my inner strength have carried me through.”
Despite life’s hardships, Ann-Margret’s resilience, faith, and commitment to her marriage and career have left an enduring legacy of strength and perseverance.
Roger’s passing in 2017 was a heartbreaking loss for Ann-Margret, but she found the strength to move forward and remains committed to living life to the fullest. Refusing to slow down, she continues her work in Hollywood, with a steady presence in television throughout the 2000s. In 2021, she starred in the star-studded film Queen Bees alongside James Caan, Ellen Burstyn, and Christopher Lloyd.
“You’re not done living just because you’ve reached a certain age,” Ann-Margret shared. “You have to keep going, not just sit at home watching TV alone. You have to participate in life.”
The legendary performer embraces aging with grace and optimism. “I think of age as a natural progression, and I’m ready for it. Whatever comes, I’m going to be the best version of myself at every stage,” she said.
Ann-Margret still makes time for her favorite pastimes, including riding her beloved purple Harley motorcycle. “There’s something exhilarating about being outside with the wind and rain—whatever the elements bring,” she explained.
In February 2024, at 82 years old, Ann-Margret was honored with the Living Legend Award at the Women’s Image Network’s 25th Women’s Image Awards. Reflecting on her remarkable career and life, she said, “I am so blessed. I can’t believe all the incredible things that have happened to me. I never expected it—never.”
Fans continue to shower the iconic star with admiration. “You’re still a gorgeous goddess, Ann, even at your age ❤️. You’ve aged beautifully and still look so youthful!” one fan wrote. Others praised her as a “timeless beauty,” “a lovely and classy lady,” and “a true treasure.”
“You are a national treasure 🔥❤️😍,” another fan declared, capturing the sentiments of many who celebrate Ann-Margret’s enduring legacy and vibrant spirit.
If the photo isn’t visible, you can access it by clicking on the Instagram link provided.
It’s truly amazing that Ann-Margret continues to shine in Hollywood after all these years—she’s a true living legend! If you’re a fan of this incredible icon, don’t forget to share her story with fellow admirers.
Scroll down for even more inspiring stories! 🙂
