5 Decades Of Devotion: The Untold Story Of Ann-Margret And Roger Smith's Unbreakable Hollywood Marriage

As of December 2025, the enduring love story of actress and singer Ann-Margret and her late husband, actor-turned-manager Roger Smith, remains one of Hollywood's most remarkable and inspiring tales of devotion. Their 50-year marriage, which spanned the volatile decades of the entertainment industry, was a testament to commitment, partnership, and unconditional support.

Their relationship was not a whirlwind romance but a deep, evolving partnership that began with a chance meeting in 1961 and culminated in a quiet Las Vegas elopement. This article delves into the biographical details of the iconic couple, the challenges they faced—including Roger's debilitating health battles—and the profound impact their bond had on their respective careers and personal lives, solidifying their status as Tinseltown royalty.

Ann-Margret and Roger Smith: A Dual Biography of Hollywood Legends

The foundation of their extraordinary half-century union was built upon two distinct yet complementary careers. Roger Smith, already an established television star, pivoted his career to become the devoted manager and producer for his wife, Ann-Margret, guiding her through her most successful years.

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Ann-Margret Olsson: The Swedish Fireball

• Full Name: Ann-Margret Olsson
• Born: April 28, 1941
• Birthplace: Valsjöbyn, Jämtlands län, Sweden
• Key Career Milestones: After moving to the U.S. in 1949, she burst onto the scene in the early 1960s with roles in films like *Pocketful of Miracles* (1961) and the iconic musical *Bye Bye Birdie* (1963). Her sizzling chemistry with Elvis Presley in *Viva Las Vegas* (1964) cemented her sex symbol status. She received Academy Award nominations for *Carnal Knowledge* (1971) and *Tommy* (1975).

Roger LaVerne Smith: The Quiet Producer

• Full Name: Roger LaVerne Smith
• Born: December 18, 1932
• Birthplace: South Gate, California, U.S.
• Key Career Milestones: Smith was best known for his role as private detective Jeff Spencer on the popular television series *77 Sunset Strip* from 1958 to 1963. He was spotted by screen legend James Cagney, who recommended him for a role that launched his career. After his acting career waned due to health issues, he transitioned into managing and producing his wife’s career, producing films like *C.C. and Company* (1970) and several successful TV specials, including *The Ann-Margret Show*.
• Died: June 4, 2017 (Aged 84)

The Accidental Meeting and the Secret Vegas Wedding

Their initial encounter was less than cinematic. Ann-Margret first met Roger Smith in 1961, shortly after her arrival in Hollywood, but their connection was fleeting. It wasn't until a second meeting in 1964, when Smith saw her perform at the Coconut Grove, that the sparks truly flew. Smith, who was divorcing his first wife, actress Victoria Shaw, was captivated by the "Swedish fireball" and her electrifying stage presence.

The couple began dating, and their relationship quickly deepened. In 1967, Roger Smith took on the role of Ann-Margret's professional manager, a move that intertwined their professional and personal lives completely. This partnership was the secret ingredient to their longevity, as they were always together, both at home and on the road.

On May 8, 1967, they chose to elope in Las Vegas, a city synonymous with Ann-Margret's career. Their wedding ceremony was a quiet affair held in a smoke-filled room at the Riviera Hotel, a stark contrast to the glitz and glamour that surrounded their public lives. This private, no-fuss approach set the tone for their marriage—focused on each other, away from the Hollywood spotlight.

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The Unwavering Support Through Crisis and Illness

The true measure of their devotion was tested by two major life crises: Ann-Margret's near-fatal accident and Roger Smith's long-term health battles. These challenges, rather than breaking them, strengthened their commitment to one another.

The Lake Tahoe Accident

In 1972, while performing in Lake Tahoe, Ann-Margret suffered a devastating 22-foot fall from a stage platform. The accident resulted in a broken jaw, a fractured arm, and a concussion. Roger Smith was immediately by her side, taking charge of her medical care and ensuring her recovery was his top priority. He was instrumental in her physical and emotional rehabilitation, managing the press and canceling all her engagements so she could heal fully. This period showcased his role as her protector and rock.

Roger Smith's Decades-Long Health Battle

Roger Smith's own health struggles were a constant fixture in their marriage. He was diagnosed with the rare and debilitating autoimmune neuromuscular disease, Myasthenia Gravis, in 1980. The condition causes chronic muscle weakness, often affecting the eyes, throat, and limbs. Later in life, he also developed Parkinson's Disease, another progressive neurological disorder. Ann-Margret's unwavering care for him during these decades became legendary in Hollywood circles.

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• She became his primary caregiver, often referred to as an "amazing nurse" by those close to the couple.
• She slowed down her own demanding career to ensure she could be there for him, prioritizing his comfort and well-being.
• Their public appearances became less frequent as Smith's condition worsened, but Ann-Margret's dedication never wavered.

Their partnership was a powerful example of "in sickness and in health." Roger Smith's passing on June 4, 2017, due to complications from his illnesses, marked the end of one of Hollywood's most enduring romances, just weeks after they had celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

Ann-Margret's Life and Legacy After Roger

Following Roger Smith's death, Ann-Margret has continued to honor his memory, often sharing poignant tributes to "the love of my life" on social media platforms. Her grief is palpable, but her career, which he so carefully managed, has seen a resurgence in recent years, a testament to the foundation he helped build.

While she has continued to take on select acting roles—including a memorable guest spot on *The Kominsky Method*—her focus remains on her family and her late husband's legacy. The couple never had children of their own, but Ann-Margret remained close to Roger's three children from his first marriage, maintaining strong family ties.

The story of Ann-Margret and Roger Smith is more than a celebrity marriage; it is a blueprint for partnership. They navigated the temptations of Hollywood, the professional pressures of fame, and the crushing weight of chronic illness, all while remaining each other's greatest champion. Their fifty-year journey together, from the set of *77 Sunset Strip* to the quiet bedside, stands as a powerful, timeless reminder that true love in Hollywood is not only possible but can be a source of incredible strength and endurance.