Elizabeth Montgomery is widely recognized for her role as Samantha Stephens on Bewitched, but her personal life, especially her marriage history, often prompts curiosity. Many people wonder was Elizabeth Montgomery married, and if so, how many times and to whom.
Below you will find a detailed overview of her marital timeline, key relationships, and common questions, all organized for easy scanning and SEO clarity.
| Partner | Years Married | Children Together | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| William Asher | 1963–1973 | 2 | Director and producer of Bewitched; marriage lasted 10 years, ended in divorce |
| Robert Fox | 1976–1983 | 0 | Stage actor; marriage lasted 7 years, ended in divorce |
| Dick York | 1956–1963 | 0 | Early co-star on Bewitched; marriage lasted 7 years, ended in divorce |
Marriage to Dick York: Early Fame and On-Screen Chemistry
Meeting and Early Years
Elizabeth Montgomery met actor Dick York on the set of the sitcom Bewitched in 1964, where they played husband and wife. Their on-screen chemistry was immediate, and they soon began a romantic relationship off-screen as well.
Relationship Timeline and Challenges
They married in 1956 and gained public attention as a beloved television couple. However, York’s ongoing health issues and struggles with back injuries created strain, leading to their divorce in 1963.
Marriage to William Asher: Peak Success and Public Scrutiny
Partnership in Show Business
In 1963, Elizabeth Montgomery married director and producer William Asher, who was instrumental in the success of Bewitched. Their professional collaboration was strong, but personal differences gradually emerged.
Divorce and Aftermath
Their marriage lasted until 1973, ending in divorce after years of public speculation about conflicts behind the scenes. Both moved on but remained linked by their iconic work in television history.
Later Years and Final Marriage to Robert Fox
A Quieter Personal Life
After her high-profile unions, Elizabeth Montgomery married stage actor Robert Fox in 1976. This marriage represented a shift toward a more private life away from constant media attention.
Duration and Legacy
They remained married until her death in 1995, making it her longest-lasting marriage. Fox provided companionship in her later years, and she often spoke fondly of their supportive relationship.
Public Perception and Media Narratives
Tabloid Coverage and Rumors
Throughout her marriages, Elizabeth Montgomery faced intense media scrutiny. Tabloids often speculated about infidelity and discord, yet many reports conflicted with accounts from close friends and colleagues.
How Marriage Shaped Her Career
Her relationships sometimes overlapped with her professional life, particularly with William Asher and Dick York. Navigating fame while managing personal bonds influenced her public image and career choices.
Key Takeaways
- Elizabeth Montgomery was married three times: Dick York, William Asher, and Robert Fox.
- Her marriage to William Asher overlapped with her most famous role on Bewitched.
- Her final marriage to Robert Fox lasted from 1976 until her death in 1995.
- Public narratives often exaggerated marital difficulties, while friends described supportive relationships.
- Her personal life reflected the challenges of balancing celebrity status with private happiness.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many times was Elizabeth Montgomery married?
Elizabeth Montgomery was married three times, to Dick York, William Asher, and Robert Fox.
Who was Elizabeth Montgomery married to when she died?
At the time of her death in 1995, she was married to Robert Fox, her third and final husband.
Did Elizabeth Montgomery have children with her husbands?
She had two children with William Asher but no children with Dick York or Robert Fox.
How long did her marriage to William Asher last?
Her marriage to William Asher lasted 10 years, from 1963 to 1973, ending in divorce.