I just love Ann-Margret – she is such a warm, sweet and classy woman.
Known for her fiery beauty and undeniable talent, she captured hearts on and off the screen, famously dating Elvis Presley and standing out as one of the few Hollywood stars who truly supported our Vietnam troops.
Yet, despite her iconic career and public admiration, she believes her greatest achievement lies elsewhere…
I just love Ann-Margret – she is such a warm, sweet and classy woman.
Known for her fiery beauty and undeniable talent, she captured hearts on and off the screen, famously dating Elvis Presley and standing out as one of the few Hollywood stars who truly supported our Vietnam troops.
Yet, despite her iconic career and public admiration, she believes her greatest achievement lies elsewhere…
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Perhaps it’s my deep connection to Sweden, but I must say Ann-Margret is a personal favorite. She’s simply incredible and all her work speaks for itself. With her delightful humor and genuine charm, she continues to captivate and inspire.
And her timeless beauty is natural and unpretentious, unlike so many in Hollywood.
As recently as last year, the Swedish-American actress and singer released her debut rock album, Born to Be Wild, as reported by The New York Times.
To say that Ann-Margret has experienced it all would be an understatement. The iconic, two-time Oscar nominee, born up north in Sweden, made her mark with memorable roles in the 1960s classics Bye Bye Birdie and Viva Las Vegas.
You can read about her electric romance with Elvis Presley here, but the truth is, he was never the man of her life.
Meeting Roger Smith
Even though she dated stars like Eddie Fisher and Elvis Presley, it was Roger Smith who ultimately won Ann-Margret’s heart.
The strikingly handsome, dark-haired actor had made a name for himself with standout roles in hits like 77 Sunset Strip and Mister Roberts. As a quintessential Hollywood heartthrob, he was used to effortlessly winning over women.
But Ann-Margret was not easily swayed.
“Every other woman I met was falling all over me,” he remembered. “But this innocent, fresh-faced beauty only spoke to me when I spoke to her and the rest of the time ignored me.”
The couple first crossed paths in the 1960s, naturally meeting through their Hollywood careers. However, it wasn’t until 1965 that they began dating seriously.
Some reports suggest that Roger initially invited the Swedish star to one of his performances at a San Francisco club. But he also had another trick up his sleeve.
He knew that Ann-Margret was a passionate motorcycle enthusiast. She loved riding and had several bikes at home, along with an entire wardrobe of motorcycle gear.
”When I first started going out with her, there were a lot of guys hanging around. But they didn’t ride motorcycles. So I figured if I had one, it would help. So I bought one and we went out ridning together. It helped,” he told NEA.
By their third date, Ann-Margret was certain that Roger Smith was the man she had always been searching for.
“I knew he would protect me. I knew that I could depend on him. I sensed it completely,” she told People in 2017.
Tears of sadness
The couple tied the knot in 1967 and their marriage was everything Ann-Margret could dream of. But few knows that their union got off to a bad start. During their wedding ceremony in Las Vegas, in a ”cigarette-smoke-filled room at the Riviera Hotel”, the Bye Bye Birdie star started to cry.
”This is not the way I envisioned my wedding,” Ann-Margret told People and added: ”I think everyone thought I was pregnant because I was crying though the whole thing. But we did it.”
Thankfully, the traumatic wedding experience didn’t matter in the end.
Soon, Roger Smith took on the role of his wife’s manager. He believed in her, admired her, and sacrificed his own acting career to support her. Roger felt that Ann-Margret had more “raw talent” than he did, and he wanted to be close to her.
“Now in Roger I’ve found all the men I need rolled into one — a father, a friend, a lover, a manager, a businessman,” the actress told Rex Reed in 1972.
“It’s perfect for me. I couldn’t exist without a strong man.”
Smith helped Ann-Margret redefine her career played a pivotal role in guiding her away from the ”sex kitten” persona, understanding that she needed to evolve beyond that to maintain a lasting presence in Hollywood. His strategic decisions allowed Ann-Margret to embrace more complex roles, which ultimately led to her breakout performance in Carnal Knowledge in 1971.
By supporting her in what she wanted, Roger Smith found he liked himself much better. Being with Ann-Margret mattered more to him than all his childhood dreams of becoming a famous actor.
”When I met Ann-Margret, I felt happy for the first time in my life,” Smith told New York. ”Once I found Ann-Margret, I couldn’t stand to be without her and, surprisingly, she couldn’t stand to be without me.”
Substance abuse & injury
Throughout their long marriage, Ann-Margret and Roger Smith were incredibly close, both personally and professionally. They experienced high peaks together but also faced significant challenges. For example, Ann-Margret grappled with substance abuse and a life-altering injury.
The Viva Las Vegas star During parts of the 1970s, the Viva Las Vegas star struggled with an addiction to pills and alcohol, finding it difficult to separate fantasy from reality.
In 1972, she suffered a devastating fall from a 22-foot platform while performing in Lake Tahoe, Nevada, breaking nearly every bone in her face. Before a shocked audience at the Sahara Hotel, Ann-Margret fell into an orchestra pit, narrowly escaping death.
She underwent facial reconstructive surgery, requiring her mouth to be wired shut and a strict liquid diet to help her recover. But as if by a miracle, Ann-Margret made a remarkable recovery. But just 10 days and 59 stitches after the terrifying accident, she made a triumphant return to the stage, riding her gleaming Harley-Davidson motorcycle and roaring back to the spotlight with her signature flair.
Her husband, Roger Smith, also played a crucial role in her recovery. When the accident happened, he piloted a stolen plane from Burbank, California, and rushed her to surgeons at the UCLA Medical Center, ensuring she received immediate care.
Roger Smith illness
Ann-Margret’s marriage to Roger Smith took a dramatic turn in 1980 when he was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis, an incurable neuromuscular disease. The illness often left Smith unable to even get out of bed in the mornings. Traveling across the country was out of the question, and the disease affected the couple both personally and professionally. Smith, who was the mastermind behind managing Ann-Margret’s career, had to step back due to his health.
By 1985, Smith’s illness went into remission, allowing Ann-Margret to reignite her nightclub career. Smith supported her as she returned to the spotlight, helping her revive her popular Las Vegas shows. For a while, things looked brighter.
When Roger Smith’s symptoms eased, the couple made one final attempt to have children of their own. Before that, Ann-Margret had lovingly embraced her role as stepmother to his three children from a previous marriage.
Sadly, Ann-Margret’s biological clock was ticking faster, and despite consulting numerous fertility experts, they were unable to conceive. They did everything they could, but never had children together — a fact the actress has said is one of the greatest disappointments of her life.
Cause of death
Ann-Margret and Roger Smith remained together until his death in 2017.
The beloved actor and manager passed away at age 84 at Sherman Oaks Hospital in Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, from complications related to myasthenia gravis.
Before his death, he had also struggled with Parkinson’s disease for many years.
His condition meant that Ann-Margret had to take a break from work to care for him. She showed total commitment to her partner during his lengthy illness.
”I kept saying no, no to everything because I was taking care of him. If you’re a spouse, if one of you has a broken wing, the other takes over,” she said.
Ann-Margret was, of course, heartbroken after her husband’s passing. Yet, she managed to find something positive and she managed to move on with her life.
”When I look back at my life, I am most proud of my marriage,” Ann-Margret told Closer Weekly. “We both wanted it to work. And it did work. We were together night and day. We loved each other and we were always in each other’s corner.”
That New York photo
To truly appreciate the love story of Ann-Margret and Roger Smith, just look at a photo taken on January 1, 1985, in New York.
It captured the Hollywood couple radiating elegance and charm at a high-profile event, showing them both at the height of their careers. But this image is more than just a glamorous snapshot. Roger’s steady gaze and Ann-Margret’s serene presence reflect their deep bond, both personally and professionally.
The rich green curtains in the background give the photo a royal feel, making it a true portrait of Hollywood royalty. What makes this picture even more powerful is that you can see the signs of Roger’s battle with illness. Though not yet fully overtaken by his condition, there’s a quiet awareness of what’s to come. Despite this, the image stands as a beautiful testament to their enduring love.
It’s more than just a memory—it’s a moment frozen in time that celebrates their strength, elegance, and the legacy they built together.
Share this story with someone who appreciates timeless love, and let’s remember how this remarkable couple faced life’s challenges with grace.
My Neighbor’s Teenage Daughter Wanted a Birthday Dress, but What She Really Needed Was a Mother’s Love — Story of the Day
After moving to a quiet town, I never expected my gruff neighbor’s rebellious daughter to shatter my window and my perception of their family. What were they hiding behind those cold, closed doors?
After my divorce, I moved to a small town, eager for a fresh start. My new house, while far from perfect, had charm. It had a weathered porch, blue shutters, and a neighborhood that seemed friendly enough.
Except for Andrew, my next-door neighbor. Gruff and aloof, he rarely spoke to anyone, and his only company was his teenage daughter, Cora.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
Cora was hard to miss. With short hair, scraped hands, and an ever-present basketball, she seemed to live in her own world. One afternoon, I spotted her practicing in their yard, her sneakers squeaking against the pavement as she dribbled with fierce determination.
“Hi there,” I called, stepping closer.
Her glare hit me like a cold wind. Before I could say another word, she launched the basketball. I had no time to react as it sailed over the fence and smashed through my living room window.
“Great shot,” I said, biting back my frustration.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
Cora smirked. “What can someone like you tell me anyway? You can’t even manage your own windows.”
And just like that, she turned and disappeared into the house.
Later, ball in hand, I knocked on their door. Andrew answered with annoyance on his face.
“Your daughter broke my window,” I said, holding up the ball.
He glanced at it and shrugged. “If she broke it, she’ll deal with the consequences. I’m raising her to handle herself when people stick their noses where they don’t belong.”
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
His tone left no room for discussion.
“Right,” I muttered, walking back to my house.
I glanced over my shoulder at Andrew’s door. Something about him felt impenetrable, as though every word he spoke was meant to keep people at arm’s length.
Whatever it was, it had shaped him and turned Cora into a sharp-edged reflection of that pain. There was more to their story, I couldn’t stop thinking about it.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
***
The next morning, I wandered into the local bakery. As I browsed the shelves, debating between a crusty baguette and a cinnamon roll, my eye caught a familiar figure. Cora was crouched near the pastries, her backpack open. She glanced around nervously before stuffing a couple of turnovers inside.
The shop owner, a wiry man with sharp eyes, started moving toward her, suspicion written all over his face. Acting quickly, I stepped between them and raised my hand.
“Those pastries are mine,” I said cheerfully, pulling out some cash. “I’ll pay for them now.”
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
The shop owner hesitated, his gaze flickering between me and Cora, before shrugging and returning to the counter. I grabbed a baguette for myself, paid, and headed outside.
Cora was sitting on a wooden bench nearby, hunched over, her knees drawn up. Her face was smudged with what looked like dirt or maybe tears. She wiped at her nose with the sleeve of her sweatshirt, clearly trying to compose herself.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
“Hey,” I said, sitting down beside her and handing her one of the pastries. “I hear these are pretty good. You should try one.”
She stared straight ahead, her fingers fidgeting with the strap of her backpack.
“Why didn’t you just pay for them?” I asked casually, taking a bite of my pastry. “Doesn’t your Dad give you pocket money?”
She sniffed and muttered, “Don’t you have anything better to do? Just leave me alone.”
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
I didn’t move. Instead, I nudged the pastry closer to her.
“I already paid for you. Next time, just ask if you need help. No big deal.”
Cora hesitated before taking a small bite, chewing slowly, still avoiding eye contact.
“Thanks for not telling on me,” she murmured after a long pause.
“You’re welcome,” I replied, giving her space to open up.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
Finally, she sighed and said quietly, “I’m saving money for my birthday. I want to buy a dress. I’ve never had a party with friends before. Dad and I usually just go to the amusement park or get donuts and go fishing. He says dresses ruin character.”
“Well,” I said after a beat, “everyone deserves a party and a dress if they want one. You’d look great in it, I’m sure.”
She shrugged, brushing crumbs off her lap. “Maybe.”
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
After that day, Cora started coming over to my yard. At first, she pretended it was no big deal—just passing through or needing a quiet spot. But little by little, she let her guard down.
I invited her in for cookies one afternoon, teaching her how to roll dough and press cookie cutters into shapes. Another time, we sat in my backyard with an old jewelry box I’d kept, sorting through beads and ribbons to make bracelets.
She didn’t say much, but she didn’t have to. The way her shoulders relaxed and her face softened during those moments said enough.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
As we threaded beads onto strings, I ventured cautiously.
“Your mom… did she like making things like this?”
Cora’s hands stilled, her jaw tightening. “We don’t talk about her.”
“Why not?” I asked gently.
“Dad says it doesn’t help me to become stronger.”
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
I couldn’t help wondering what secrets Andrew was trying to bury, so the next day, I swallowed my nerves and knocked on their door. When Andrew answered, I forced a smile.
“I thought Cora might enjoy going to the fair,” I said.
“We don’t do fairs,” he replied gruffly.
I pressed on, assuring him it could be good for her.
After a long pause, his jaw clenched, and he muttered, “Fine. But I’m coming too.”
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
***
At the fair, the atmosphere was lively—bright banners flapped in the breeze, music played from a carousel, and the smell of funnel cakes filled the air. Cora’s eyes darted around. We wandered through the stalls, and I spotted a booth where people were weaving flower crowns.
“Look, Cora,” I said, nudging her. “Want to give it a try?”
She shrugged, trying to seem indifferent. “I guess.”
She sat down at the stall, her fingers fumbling with the delicate flowers and stems. I could see her frustration building as her first attempt fell apart.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
Andrew stood nearby, watching with a skeptical expression. When the second crown collapsed in her hands, he let out a low chuckle.
“Maybe this isn’t for you. Stick to things you’re good at.”
Cora’s face turned crimson. She stood abruptly and knocked over a nearby display of floral arrangements. Pots and vases crashed to the ground, drawing the attention of everyone nearby.
The vendor rushed over, her face red with anger. “Who’s going to pay for this mess?”
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
“Not me,” Andrew said. “This wouldn’t have happened if she wasn’t dragged into this nonsense.”
The vendor looked at me expectantly, and I sighed, pulling out my wallet to pay for the damages. I turned to Cora, but she was already storming off toward the edge of the fairground.
Andrew’s glare pinned me in place. “Do you really think you know better how to raise my daughter? Your so-called femininity has already caused enough problems.”
“All I wanted was to show her that life doesn’t always have to be so rigid.”
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
He stepped closer, his voice lowering. “Do you know what it’s like to lose everything? To watch someone you love disappear because they weren’t strong enough to survive? I’m trying to make sure that doesn’t happen to her.”
The pain in his eyes caught me off guard, but before I could respond, he straightened, his face hardening again.
“Stay away from us,” he said, his voice cold, before turning and walking off in the direction Cora had gone.
I stood there, the weight of his words sinking in. Andrew wasn’t just angry. He was scared. He was building walls around himself and Cora, trying to shield them both from a world he no longer trusted.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
As I watched him disappear into the crowd, I wondered if there was a way to reach him. For that moment, though, I knew I’d only scratched the surface of whatever pain he was carrying.
***
For days, there was no sign of Cora. The silence from next door felt heavy, and I assumed that Andrew had tightened his grip, keeping her on house arrest.
I tried to focus on my tasks, but my thoughts always drifted back to her.
Late one evening, as rain poured in steady sheets outside, a knock startled me. I found Cora standing on my porch, drenched from head to toe.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
“Dad doesn’t understand me. It’s all fishing, basketball, and rules. You showed me that life could be different,” she said, her voice trembling as she stepped inside.
I led her to the kitchen, grabbing a towel to dry her. I placed a warm mug in front of her.
“I miss my mom. She’s been gone for years, but sometimes… it feels like it just happened.”
My heart ached for her. “I’m sorry, Cora. I didn’t know.”
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“I feel like I’ll never be what my dad wants me to be,” she admitted, her fingers tracing circles on the mug. “He wants me to be tough, but I’m tired of being tough all the time.”
I reached out, placing my hand over hers. “Your father loves you, Cora. But I think he’s struggling too. Maybe he’s scared of losing you like he lost your mom.”
She didn’t reply, but her shoulders sagged as if letting go of a weight she’d carried for too long.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
***
The next morning, I met Andrew at his door.
“I don’t have time for this,” he said, his tone clipped.
“Make time,” I said firmly. “Cora’s hurting. She needs you to hear her.”
He hesitated before finally speaking. “Cora’s mother drowned because she didn’t know how to swim. I’m trying to make sure Cora’s strong enough to handle anything,” he said, his voice tight. “I can’t lose her too.”
“I’m sorry, Andrew. But Cora’s already strong. Your fears shouldn’t keep her from being happy.”
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
He didn’t respond immediately but eventually nodded. After a pause, he sighed. “Her birthday’s coming up. I… I don’t know how to make it special for her. I’ve never been good at this. Could you… help?”
I smiled softly. “I think I know exactly what she needs.”
***
On Cora’s birthday, I organized a small party at my house, inviting a few of her school friends. She beamed when I handed her a wrapped box with the dress she’d been eyeing in the shop window. When she put it on, her joy was radiant, lighting up the entire room.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
Andrew stayed back, watching from the doorway. After a while, he stepped closer.
“She looks so much like her mother. I think… she would’ve wanted this for her. Thank you. For everything. I think I’ve been holding on to the wrong things.”
“Maybe it’s time to hold on to her instead.”
Andrew suggested that the three of us spend more time together. It felt like a promise.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
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