A Love That Stood the Test of Time
Although she was once romantically linked to Elvis Presley, it was Roger Smith who became her lifelong partner. The two met in the 1960s and began a relationship that quickly grew into something deeper.
They married in 1967 and built a life together rooted in mutual respect and support. Over time, Smith stepped away from his acting career to help guide Ann-Margret’s professional path, playing a key role in shaping her transition into more complex and lasting roles.
Facing Challenges Together
Like many long-term partnerships, their journey included both successes and difficult moments. Ann-Margret experienced personal struggles and a serious on-stage accident in the early 1970s, requiring extensive recovery. Throughout it all, Smith remained by her side, offering steady support.
In 1980, their roles shifted when Smith was diagnosed with Myasthenia gravis, a chronic condition that affected his strength and daily life. Later, he also faced challenges related to Parkinson’s disease.
During these years, Ann-Margret reduced her workload to care for him, demonstrating the same commitment he had once shown her. She later described their partnership as one built on loyalty, understanding, and shared resilience.
A Life Built on Partnership
Despite personal disappointments, including not having children together, the couple maintained a strong bond. Ann-Margret embraced her role as a stepmother to Smith’s children and focused on nurturing their relationship.
Their marriage lasted five decades—an uncommon achievement in the entertainment world—and remained central to her identity.
A Lasting Legacy of Love
Roger Smith passed away in 2017 at the age of 84. His loss was deeply felt, but Ann-Margret has spoken about their life together with gratitude rather than regret.
She has often reflected that their relationship worked because both of them were committed to supporting each other through every stage of life.
Today, her story serves as a reminder that lasting partnerships are built not only on love, but also on patience, care, and shared purpose.