When you hear the name Elizabeth Montgomery, it is impossible not to remember the little twinkle that accompanied her character’s famous nose twitch on the classic television show Bewitched.
Her charm and talent captured the hearts of millions and made her one of the most beloved actresses of her generation. Elizabeth Montgomery became a household name in the 1960s, when her portrayal of Samantha Stephens, the magical and mischievous witch, turned her into a global phenomenon.
However, her life was cut short when she died unexpectedly in 1995, leaving fans around the world mourning her loss. At Newsner, we have written about many remarkable and talented women, but Elizabeth Montgomery always stood out.
From the moment I saw her on Bewitched, she captured my youthful admiration and became an enduring favorite.
Unlike many actors who rely heavily on makeup and stylists to maintain their appearance, Elizabeth possessed a natural beauty that shone effortlessly on screen. Watching her perform in Bewitched was a joy that required no embellishment.
Elizabeth Montgomery was born on April 15, 1933, in Los Angeles, California, to a family steeped in show business. Her mother was a Broadway actress, and her father, Robert Montgomery, was a well-known and highly respected film actor.
Acting was in her blood from the very beginning. In a 1954 interview with the Los Angeles Times, Elizabeth recalled, “Dad tells me I often climbed on his lap after dinner and remarked, ‘I’m going to be an actress when I grow up.’
I don’t know whether he encouraged me or not, but he told me he would humor me and would tell me to wait and see what happened when I grew up.”
Her father played a significant role in her early career. Elizabeth said, “I’ll be real honest and say that Daddy did help me get a break in TV, and I’m really grateful for his assistance and guidance.
He’s my most severe critic, but also a true friend as well as a loving father.” Elizabeth attended school in California before moving to New York City, where she studied at the Spence School.
She later attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts for three years, further developing her acting skills.
While still a teenager, she made her television debut on her father’s show, Robert Montgomery Presents, and appeared in several episodes, gaining early experience and exposure in the industry.
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