Ann-Margret's Life After Roger Smith: Love, Loss, And Moving Forward

You’ve probably heard of her famous romance with Elvis Presley, but Ann-Margret found her true love in the late Roger Smith, an actor from the classic TV show 77 Sunset Strip. Their 50-year marriage was built on trust and mutual respect. Ann-Margret recalls how she felt about Roger even early on: “I knew he would protect me. I felt this deep connection with him from the start, and by our third date, I just knew he was the one. I could depend on him completely.”

Life After Loss: Finding Strength in Grief

It’s been three years since Roger’s passing, and Ann-Margret, now 79, is learning to thrive again. “You don’t have to give up on life when you hit a certain age,” she says with a determination that shines through. The actress recently starred alongside James Caan and Ellen Burstyn in Never Too Late, proving that her career is as vibrant as ever. “You can’t just sit at home and let life pass you by. You’ve got to keep moving forward, keep participating in life,” she adds with a smile that feels like a hug.

Back to Work: A Step Toward Healing

After Roger’s death, actor Alan Arkin reached out to Ann-Margret with a simple but powerful message: “You’ve got to get back to work!” She took the advice to heart and guest-starred on The Kominsky Method. “At the end of the project, I turned to Alan and said, ‘You were absolutely right,’” she remembers with a laugh. Beyond work, Ann-Margret has reconnected with lifelong friends like Rita Moreno, Morgan Freeman, and even newer pals like Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones. “She’s kept those friendships alive, and they’ve been a huge source of strength for her,” an insider shares with Closer Weekly.

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A Legacy of Love: Family Support in Tough Times

Though Ann-Margret and Roger didn’t have children together, his kids from a previous marriage have been her rock. “Her stepdaughter Tracey and stepsons Jordan and Dallas all adore her,” says the insider. “She’s become a beloved grandmother to all their kids, staying in touch through frequent calls, visits, and even Zoom sessions. It’s a beautiful family dynamic that’s kept her connected and grounded.”

Of course, missing Roger is something she feels every day. “She allows herself to grieve, but she also treasures the incredible years they shared,” the insider explains. “Ann-Margret truly believes Roger is still looking out for her, even from beyond.”

— Reporting by Rick Egusquiza