Ann-Margret lit up the stage as the 25th Women’s Image Awards honored her as a living legend. "When I was a kid, I never dreamed I’d be standing here receiving so many awards," Ann-Margret shares with Closer. "I feel so blessed to have had such an incredible journey."
As she looks back over her remarkable seven-decade career, spanning singing, dancing, acting, movies, television, and beyond, Ann-Margret, now 82, reflects on her journey with gratitude and pride. "Ever since I was 4 years old, I’ve been drawn to performing and being in front of an audience," says the star, who moved to the United States from Sweden with her mother in 1946. "It’s been a lifelong passion that has shaped who I am today."
Ann-Margret skyrocketed to fame with the 1963 film Bye Bye Birdie, but it was Viva Las Vegas in 1964, starring alongside Elvis Presley, that cemented her place in Hollywood history. "It’s hard to believe it’s been 60 years since that magical time," she says. "Elvis and I had such a great rapport. He was always teasing me, but I gave it right back! It was a wonderful experience that I’ll always treasure."
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Just like Elvis, Ann-Margret’s live performances in Las Vegas became must-see events in the late 1960s and 1970s. "Performing live in front of an audience has always been my favorite thing to do," Ann-Margret explains. "I also had the privilege of singing and dancing in two popular TV specials, which were some of the most fun times of my career. The energy and connection with the audience are truly unmatched."
A Life Filled with Love and Laughter
At her home in the Hollywood Hills, Ann-Margret shares her life with her beloved dog, Bambi, and cat, Harley, a cherished gift from her late husband, actor and producer Roger Smith. "Roger brought Harley home for me 20 years ago," she recalls fondly. "He was wearing a bomber jacket, and when we opened it, there was this tiny little kitten inside. Harley has been my loyal companion ever since!"
Ann-Margret has a knack for forming lifelong friendships. Her relationship with Elvis, whom she briefly dated, remained a cherished bond until his passing in 1977. "I hope and pray that Elvis is up there somewhere, having the time of his life," she says with a warm smile.
Elvis isn’t the only co-star she’s stayed close with over the years. Ann-Margret and Jack Nicholson, who starred together in the 1971 film Carnal Knowledge—a role that earned her an Oscar nomination—still enjoy a friendly connection. "We used to run into each other at Lakers games and would always wave to one another," she reminisces. "It’s nice to have those shared moments with people you’ve worked with."
Some of her closest friends have been by her side since the very beginning of her career. "Once I have a friend, they’re a friend for life," Ann-Margret declares. "A perfect day for me is sitting somewhere beautiful, sharing a delicious meal, and laughing with my favorite people. Laughter is so important to me, and I’m lucky to have such wonderful, incredible friends."
Ann-Margret’s favorite indulgences include shoes and sweets. "I absolutely adore shoes—they take up an entire wall in my home," she says with a laugh. "As for sweets, I try to be disciplined, especially with dairy products like whipped cream. Most of the time, I’m a good girl, but sometimes I just can’t resist!"
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To stay in shape, she works out twice a week with a trainer and enjoys long outdoor walks with friends. "Sometimes we’ll have a group of 25 people trekking through the canyons," she says. "It’s a great way to stay active and connect with others."
These days, Ann-Margret’s life is peaceful, and she doesn’t dwell much on the past. "It might sound hard to believe, but I’ve only watched my movies once," she says. "I don’t really look back. Today, I feel 65, but tomorrow? Who knows? I just take each day as it comes and enjoy every moment."
