Legendary actress Ann-Margret is best known for her role in Bye Bye Birdie, but the iconic star’s favorite role behind the scenes was that of a dedicated wife.
The redheaded stunner rose to superstardom in the ’60s in iconic films like Birdie, Viva Las Vegas, and The Train Robbers. Always known for her wild dance moves, successful music career, and sharp presence on camera, the beauty isn’t often on the big screen these days. However, she has appeared on television in recent years, with appearances on Ray Donovan and The Kominsky Method. But no matter where she is, Ann-Margret loves to honor her late husband, Roger Smith, who died in 2017.
“They say Hollywood marriages don’t last, but with Roger by my side, I knew we’d prove them wrong. Fifty years later, and I still remember the way he made me laugh in the back of that car,” the actress shared in a new Instagram post. In the stunning throwback photo, Ann-Margret sits alongside Smith in the backseat of a car. Looking dapper in a gray suit, he holds his sunglasses in his hand.
She Always Wanted to Work in Entertainment
Born Ann-Margret Olsson in Sweden, she always wanted to be an actress.
“I remember wanting to be in show business all my life,” Ann-Margret told Fox News in 2024. “And I remember one day I said to mother and daddy, ‘I want to talk to you. It’s a very, very important thing for me, and I want to get into show business.’”
Her parents agreed, and she was eventually discovered by comedian George Burns. Luckily, he gave her a spot on his Las Vegas show.
Ann-Margret Still Rides Her Harley
At 84, Ann-Margret is showing no signs of slowing down. Happy and healthy, she even still loves to ride her motorcycle!
“It’s lavender, and it’s got white daisies all over it,” she told PEOPLE. “There are flowers on the back fender and the front fender. … I love speed. Not the drug.”
Even a horrific accident back in 2000 didn’t stop her from getting back on the bike. The actress was thrown off her Harley while riding in Minnesota. The accident resulted in three broken ribs and a fractured shoulder, Vanity Fair reported. Along with other struggles in her life, Ann-Margret defiantly says she won’t let those obstacles restrict her from enjoying life.
“Well, ’cause it’s not gonna get me down. I’m just gonna get up on that bike again. I’m going to get up from whatever happened to me,” she explained. “I will get up and go.”
Related: ‘Bye Bye Birdie’ Icon Ann-Margret, 84, Dazzles in Pink in Rare Red Carpet Appearance
This story was originally published by Parade on Jan 18, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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