Ann-Margret Olsson, known professionally as Ann-Margret, is a celebrated Swedish-American actress and singer whose career spans over six decades. Her personal life, particularly her enduring marriage to actor and businessman Roger Smith, is a testament to love, dedication, and mutual support.
Early Life and Career
Born on April 28, 1941, in Stockholm, Sweden, Ann-Margret moved to the United States at the age of six. She began her entertainment career as a singer, gaining national attention with her rendition of “I Just Don’t Understand.” Her dynamic performances and charismatic screen presence soon led her to Hollywood, where she starred in films such as “Bye Bye Birdie” (1963) and “Viva Las Vegas” (1964), the latter co-starring Elvis Presley.
Meeting Roger Smith
In 1961, Ann-Margret met Roger Smith, an actor known for his role in the television series “77 Sunset Strip.” Their connection was immediate, and they began dating. Despite their busy careers, they maintained a strong relationship, with Smith eventually becoming her manager. This partnership allowed them to work closely together, blending their personal and professional lives seamlessly.
Marriage and Family
Ann-Margret and Roger Smith married on May 8, 1967, in a private ceremony in Las Vegas. Their union was marked by deep affection and mutual respect. Although Ann-Margret faced challenges in starting her own family, including a 13-year struggle with infertility, she embraced her role as a stepmother to Smith’s three children from his previous marriage. She often referred to her stepchildren as her greatest joy, highlighting the love and bond they shared.
Roger Smith’s Health Challenges
In the late 1980s, Roger Smith was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis, a neuromuscular disease that causes weakness in the skeletal muscles. As his condition progressed, he became unable to walk and required constant care. Ann-Margret, known for her resilience and dedication, paused her acting career to become his primary caregiver. She described her role as his nurse as a natural extension of their partnership, stating, “If you’re a spouse, if one of you has a broken wing, the other takes over.”
Legacy of Love and Dedication
Roger Smith passed away on June 4, 2017, after battling myasthenia gravis for many years. Ann-Margret has spoken fondly of their 50-year marriage, emphasizing the importance of mutual support and love. She remarked, “When I look back at my life, I am most proud of my marriage… We both wanted it to work. And it did work. We were together night and day. We loved each other and were always in each other’s corner.” 
Ann-Margret’s commitment to her husband during his illness and their enduring love story serve as an inspiration, illustrating the profound impact of love, sacrifice, and partnership in both personal and professional realms.
