Ann-Margret: A Life In Music And Memories

Let me tell you a story about Ann-Margret, the legendary entertainer who was born with a song in her soul. "The first time I remember hearing music, it was the accordion," she shares with Closer. "We were living through the tough times of World War II, but music brought beauty into our lives." From her earliest days, music was a constant presence in her life.

A Lifetime of Vibrancy and Creativity

At 80 years young, Ann-Margret is still as radiant and dynamic as ever. She's kept herself busy with an incredible career that spans film, television, and music. Recently, she wrapped up recording a brand-new album featuring iconic '60s hits, aptly titled Born to Be Wild. This project marks her return to the studio after what feels like forever—a long hiatus that she jokingly refers to as "100 years!"

Discovering Her Passion for Performing

It all started when Ann-Margret was just a little girl in Sweden. "I was around four years old, and I'd harmonize with my mom to traditional Swedish songs," she reminisces. "Our home was filled with music—my grandmother lived with us, and my uncle played the accordion. It was magical!" This early exposure to music set the stage for her future as a performer.

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By the time she reached adulthood, Ann-Margret had already established herself as a triple threat in the entertainment world. Whether she was in the recording studio, on a nightclub stage, or on a movie set, she felt completely at home. Her talent and charisma made her a natural star.

From Film Debut to Musical Sensation

Her big break came in 1961 when she landed the role of Bette Davis' daughter in Pocketful of Miracles. "My dad went to see the movie in Hollywood without telling my mom or me—he just wanted to see my name in lights," she recalls with a smile. But that was just the beginning. Movies like Bye Bye Birdie and Viva Las Vegas skyrocketed her to fame. Despite the glitz and glamour, Ann-Margret credits her family for keeping her grounded. "My parents and close friends were my rock—they helped me stay humble through it all," she confides.

Today, Ann-Margret resides in the same Los Angeles home she purchased with her late husband, actor and producer Roger Smith, back in 1968. Reflecting on her life, she says, "I'm most proud of my marriage. We both worked hard to make it last, and it did." Their love story is one for the ages. "We were inseparable," she says fondly. "We supported each other through thick and thin."

Finding Joy in Everyday Moments

Since Roger's passing in 2017, Ann-Margret has found solace in simple pleasures. While she's taken a break from some of their shared hobbies, like skiing, she hopes to hit the slopes again soon. Meanwhile, her faithful companion, an 18-year-old cat named Harley, keeps her company. "Harley is my constant companion," she explains. "He sleeps with me every night and is always by my side."

Ann-Margret also stays active with a group of friends she's known for years. Together, they've formed an informal walking club. "Sometimes there are three of us, other times there are 15," she says. "We go to a different location every weekend, and I look forward to it so much!"

A New Chapter: The '60s Revival

Her latest album, Born to Be Wild, is a celebration of her favorite era—the 1960s. It features tracks by her dear friends Bobby Darin and Bobby Rydell, as well as classics like "Earth Angel" and "Teach Me Tonight," which have been staples in her live performances for years. "These songs mean so much to me," she says excitedly. "They're a part of who I am!"

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Recently, Ann-Margret joined in on a special tribute to Bye Bye Birdie, including a screening and Q&A at the historic Montalbán Theatre in Hollywood. Looking back, she admits she never imagined the film would become such a cultural phenomenon. "I was just thrilled to remember my lines and the lyrics to the songs," she confesses with a laugh.