“Bewitched” wasn’t just a TV show; it was a cultural phenomenon that brought witchcraft and suburban antics together in a way no one had ever seen. Premiering in 1964, the show was still flying high into the 1970s, enchanting audiences with Samantha Stephens, her nose-wiggling spells, and the endless shenanigans of her family. But behind the magical façade, the show underwent its own transformations—on-screen and off.
By the time the ’70s rolled around, “Bewitched” was nearing the end of its run. Samantha, played by the effortlessly charming Elizabeth Montgomery, remained the heart of the series. Her chemistry with her husband Darrin, played first by Dick York and later by Dick Sargent, kept the laughs coming. The switch between the two Darrins is still one of television’s biggest casting controversies. Fans were divided, but the magic of the show endured.
So, what happened to the cast after the final spell was cast in 1972? Elizabeth Montgomery, forever remembered as Samantha, went on to star in a variety of made-for-TV movies and dramas. She wanted to shed her wholesome witchy image, often opting for darker, grittier roles. Tragically, her life was cut short in 1995 when she passed away from cancer, but her legacy as TV’s most lovable witch lives on.
Dick York, the original Darrin, left the show in 1969 due to debilitating back pain caused by an earlier injury. His health struggles overshadowed his career, but his talent left an indelible mark on fans. He passed away in 1992, but his contributions to classic TV haven’t been forgotten. Dick Sargent, who took over as Darrin, stayed in the public eye after “Bewitched,” often appearing in sitcoms and TV specials. In the early 1990s, he became a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights after coming out as gay. He passed away in 1994, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy and kindness.
Agnes Moorehead, who played the delightfully dramatic Endora, was the epitome of old Hollywood glamour and sass. Her sharp-tongued remarks and bold costumes stole every scene she was in. A revered actress before and after the show, she earned four Academy Award nominations during her career. She passed away in 1974, but Endora remains an icon of wit and style.
Other cast members, like David White (Larry Tate) and Erin Murphy (Tabitha), also left their marks. White continued acting in TV and film until his death in 1990. Murphy, who played Samantha and Darrin’s adorable daughter, transitioned into a quieter life outside Hollywood but occasionally makes appearances to celebrate “Bewitched” fandom.
“Bewitched” may have faded from the airwaves, but its influence never waned. The quirky mix of suburban life and supernatural chaos paved the way for countless shows. The cast may be gone, but their magic continues to live on, one twitch of the nose at a time.