'Bewitched' Cast Then and Now: Stars of 'magical' sitcom left lasting legacy
'Bewitched' cast's incredible journeys
'Bewitched' first graced television screens from September 17, 1964, to March 25, 1972, and its enduring popularity ensures repeat audiences for reruns. The series centers on the story of a witch who weds a human man and commits to living the life of an ordinary housewife. Remarkably, it soared to the second-highest TV ratings in America during its inaugural season and earned the prestigious #50 spot on Billboard's 'TV Guide's 50 Greatest TV Shows of All Time' list." Regrettably, the lead actors who brought the main characters to life have since died. But they had a splendid run post-'Bewitched'. Find out how the sitcom's success helped them in their later years.
Elizabeth Montgomery as Samantha Stephens
Elizabeth Montgomery played the lead role of the witch Samantha Stephens who struggles to be a 'normal' housewife to her loving husband. But she can't resist using a little magic to solve the little problems she runs into. Her journey unfolds under the disapproving gaze of her mother, Endora. Elizabeth Montgomery's Samantha emerged as a unique female TV hero. Notably, Montgomery's quirky portrayal and iconic nose twitch contributed to the sitcom's continued popularity. Her portrayal even inspired the Nicole Kidman movie reboot of 'Bewitched' in 2005. But Montgomery herself sought more serious roles later in her career like 'The Legend of Lizzie Borden' (1975). Montgomery remained active in her acting career and private life, advocating for equal marriage rights and AIDS awareness. Even while battling colon cancer, she continued her fight for others until her passing in 1995.
Dick York as Darrin Stephens 1.0
Dick York as Darrin Stephens played the mortal man married to the witch Samantha in the first 5 seasons of the show. York had a substantial pre-Bewitched career in TV series like 'Studio One' in Hollywood (1956-1958) and 'The Millionaire' (1958-1960). However, a severe back injury plagued him, affecting his ability to work in later years despite his 'Bewitched' success. Struggling with health and financial woes, he attempted an '80s comeback via 'Fantasy Island' and founded the charity 'Acting for Life' to aid the homeless. Dick York passed away in 1992, battling emphysema for years.
Dick Sargent as Darrin Stephens 2.0
Following Dick York's exit from 'Bewitched', Dick Sargent assumed the role of Darrin Stephens from Season 6 to 8, introducing subtle character differences. Sargent portrayed a more composed and less irate Darrin, While Elizabeth Montgomery endorsed his portrayal of the character, Agnes Moorehead who played Endora, disagreed. This creative divergence resulted in a 13-place decline in the show's ratings. Sargent's extensive acting career spanned before and after Bewitched and included 'One Happy Family' (1961), 'Taxi' (1982), and his final film 'Acting on Impulse' (1993). His legacy includes guest roles in 'Dukes of Hazzard' and 'The Waltons', as well as a prominent 93-episode stint in 'Down to Earth'. He died in 1994 due to prostate cancer.
Agnes Moorehead as Endora
Endora, Samantha's complex mother, demonstrates love's complexities by continually meddling in her witch-daughter's romance with her ordinary husband. Portrayed by Agnes Moorehead, the actress was 'discovered' during a Bloomingdale shopping trip by Elizabeth Montgomery and director Bill Asher. Moorehead had launched her acting career in 1941 with her role as Mary Kane in the film 'Citizen Kane'. Her versatile career spanned film, radio, stage, and television, including a memorable appearance in 'The Twilight Zone'. She made history as the first woman to co-host the Oscars in 1948 alongside Dick Powell. Moorehead continued working until her passing in 1974, culminating with her final role in the TV movie 'Rex Harrison Presents Stories of Love'.
David White as Larry Tate
David White played Larry Tate, a reliable friend to Darrin. The character offered a sense of control in an otherwise chaotic world. Tate was a recurring character in seasons 1 to 5 and a central figure in seasons 6 to 8. White's extensive career included roles in popular shows like 'Peter Gunn', 'The Untouchables', 'Mission: Impossible,' and 'Bonanza', along with appearances in two 'Twilight Zone' episodes. Beyond television, he played a philandering executive in the 1960 film 'The Apartment' and made his mark in 'Dynasty'. His final role was in the 1989 short 'Mergers & Acquisitions' before his passing in 1990 due to a heart attack.
Erin Murphy as Tabitha Stephens
Elizabeth Montgomery's real-life pregnancy led to the addition of a child to the Stephens family, introducing the endearing blonde character, Tabitha, a half-witch. Initially, five different babies played Tabitha in season 2, but by season 3, Erin Murphy and her twin Diane took over. Erin eventually became the primary actress for Tabitha. She secured the role over Helen Hunt and Jodie Foster. While she is renowned for her 'Bewitched' role, Erin has also appeared in various TV movies and series, including 'Lassie' in 1973 and the more recent 'TV Therapy' (2019). She has featured in over 80 commercials, including one alongside Ronald Reagan. Erin Murphy, now 58, remains celebrated by fans and has a substantial Instagram following.
