Ann-Margret has long been a beloved figure in Hollywood, known for her fiery beauty, undeniable talent, and warm personality. From her electric performances in films like Bye Bye Birdie and Viva Las Vegas to her heartfelt support for Vietnam War troops, she’s captured the hearts of generations. Yet, beyond the fame and public admiration, Ann-Margret’s life has been marked by a love story that transcends Hollywood glitz—a love story that defined her life with her husband, Roger Smith. In this article, we explore the incredible journey of Ann-Margret, her marriage to Roger, and how their bond shaped her life and career.

Despite dating high-profile stars like Elvis Presley and Eddie Fisher, it was Roger Smith who ultimately captured Ann-Margret’s heart. Roger, a dark-haired actor with standout roles in 77 Sunset Strip and Mister Roberts, was a quintessential Hollywood heartthrob. But unlike many women who fell for his charm, Ann-Margret wasn’t easily swayed.

The couple first crossed paths through their Hollywood careers in the 1960s. However, it wasn’t until 1965 that their romance truly blossomed. Roger knew Ann-Margret loved motorcycles, so he cleverly bought one to ride with her. It worked. By their third date, Ann-Margret knew he was the man she had always been looking for. “I knew he would protect me. I knew that I could depend on him. I sensed it completely,” she told People magazine in 2017.

In 1967, Ann-Margret and Roger Smith tied the knot in Las Vegas, but their wedding didn’t go quite as planned. The ceremony took place in a smoke-filled room at the Riviera Hotel, and Ann-Margret found herself crying throughout the entire event. Many speculated that she might be pregnant, but in truth, she was overcome with emotion. “This is not the way I envisioned my wedding,” she shared.

Despite the rocky start, their marriage flourished. Roger soon became Ann-Margret’s manager, stepping away from his own acting career to support hers. He believed she had more raw talent and potential, and he wanted to help her achieve greatness. This sacrifice wasn’t lost on Ann-Margret. She once said, “Now in Roger I’ve found all the men I need rolled into one—a father, a friend, a lover, a manager, a businessman. I couldn’t exist without a strong man.”

In 1980, Roger Smith was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis, a debilitating neuromuscular disease. The illness left him bedridden for long periods and forced him to step back from managing Ann-Margret’s career. The couple’s lives changed dramatically, but Ann-Margret never wavered in her commitment to Roger.

For decades, she balanced her career with caring for her husband. Despite the challenges, their love remained strong. Roger’s illness only deepened their bond, with Ann-Margret taking on the role of caregiver with grace and dedication.

Ann-Margret and Roger Smith’s love story is one of Hollywood’s most enduring. They remained together until Roger’s death in 2017, after a long battle with myasthenia gravis and Parkinson’s disease. Reflecting on her marriage, Ann-Margret once said, “When I look back at my life, I am most proud of my marriage. We both wanted it to work. And it did.”

Their love transcended the typical Hollywood romance. It wasn’t about fame or glamour—it was about loyalty, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment. Together, they weathered life’s challenges and emerged stronger for it.

While Ann-Margret’s illustrious career in Hollywood has earned her global fame, she believes her greatest achievement lies in her marriage to Roger Smith. Their love story, filled with highs and lows, is a testament to their devotion and resilience. Through addiction, injury, illness, and the pressures of Hollywood, their bond remained unbreakable.

Ann-Margret continues to inspire with her grace, warmth, and timeless beauty. She may have been a Hollywood icon, but it’s her role as a devoted wife and partner that she holds most dear. As fans, we admire her not just for her talent, but for the incredible love she shared with Roger—a love that truly stands the test of time.