Did Ann-Margret Love Elvis Presley More Than Her Husband?
The connection between Ann-Margret and Elvis Presley has long been a subject of fascination for fans, media, and historians alike. Their iconic Hollywood relationship—both professional and personal—has remained one of the most talked-about pairings in show business history. Known for her electrifying performances and Hollywood beauty, Ann-Margret’s chemistry with Elvis Presley on-screen in their 1964 film Viva Las Vegas sparked rumors of a romantic affair. While it’s widely accepted that they shared a deep affection for one another, the question of whether Ann-Margret loved Elvis more than her husband, Roger Smith, whom she married in 1967, has been a point of speculation for years.
In her recent interviews, Ann-Margret has addressed this long-standing question, offering insights into her relationship with Elvis and her marriage to Roger Smith. By examining the depth of her connection to both men, we can gain a clearer understanding of her emotional journey and how she navigated the complex terrain of love, loyalty, and fame.
Ann-Margret and Elvis Presley: A Connection That Transcended the Screen
The connection between Ann-Margret and Elvis Presley was undeniable. When they first met on the set of “Viva Las Vegas”, their chemistry was so intense that it was evident to everyone around them. Their on-screen performances reflected a deep mutual admiration and attraction, which quickly fueled rumors of a secret romantic relationship. According to Ann-Margret, while the bond was emotionally intense, their relationship was never fully realized in the way many had speculated.
In her memoir and interviews, Ann-Margret has shared that while Elvis was a major figure in her life during the 1960s, their relationship didn’t evolve into the full-blown romance many assumed. Rather, she describes their time together as special, filled with respect and emotional closeness. Their connection was one of profound affection and support, which was tested by the pressures of their fame. While they shared many intimate moments, Ann-Margret states that their bond was more about admiration than an overwhelming, obsessive love.
“Elvis was incredibly special to me. He was my friend, and I cared about him deeply, but our relationship was never about outshining anyone else. We had a connection, but I loved him for who he was, not for what people thought we could be,” Ann-Margret shared in one of her more recent interviews.
Despite the rumors that they were involved in a romantic affair, Ann-Margret stresses that her feelings for Elvis were grounded in mutual respect and friendship, not a traditional romantic attachment. She acknowledges that Elvis had a profound impact on her, both personally and professionally, but she was already committed to her relationship with Roger Smith by the time their bond deepened.
Ann-Margret’s Marriage to Roger Smith: Loyalty and Love
Ann-Margret’s relationship with Roger Smith, whom she married in 1967, is often described as one of deep affection and unwavering loyalty. While Elvis Presley occupied a significant place in her life in the 1960s, Roger Smith was the man who ultimately became her husband and lifelong partner. Their marriage, which lasted until Smith’s death in 2017, is one that Ann-Margret has spoken about with great admiration and respect.
Ann-Margret has shared in multiple interviews that she was deeply in love with Roger, even though her past with Elvis remains a part of her story. She’s explained that Roger was supportive and understanding of the bond she had with Elvis, and their love was never threatened by it.
“Roger knew about Elvis, and he understood. My relationship with Roger was built on deep mutual respect, and it wasn’t something I took lightly. He was always there for me, and I felt deeply connected to him,” she said.
Their relationship was unique in that Roger was not someone seeking the limelight. He was more of a private figure who supported Ann-Margret’s career while allowing her to maintain her independence. While Elvis was a rock star whose life was always in the public eye, Roger Smith was a more grounded and private individual, offering Ann-Margret a sense of peace and stability.
Did Ann-Margret Love Elvis More Than Her Husband?
So, did Ann-Margret love Elvis more than Roger Smith? The short answer is likely no. While Elvis Presley played a significant role in Ann-Margret’s early career and deeply impacted her, Roger Smith was the man she chose to marry and build a life with. Their relationship, though marked by challenges, was filled with love, respect, and support—qualities that go beyond infatuation or a fleeting connection. Ann-Margret’s love for Roger appears to have been a stable foundation, and her connection with Elvis was more of a unique bond that existed within a specific context of their careers, rather than something that overtook her commitment to her husband.
Ann-Margret herself has described her relationship with Roger Smith as one of steady and enduring love, which was based on trust and companionship. It’s clear that Elvis, while a profound influence, was not the center of her life in the way her marriage to Roger became.
Conclusion: The True Love Story
The love story between Ann-Margret and Elvis Presley will always remain an iconic part of Hollywood history, and their connection was undeniably special. However, Ann-Margret’s marriage to Roger Smith was one of enduring love and devotion. She has reflected on the respect and admiration she had for Elvis, but her relationship with Roger clearly remained her strongest emotional bond. In her own words, Roger was her true love, the man she chose to share her life with, and the partner who supported her through both the highs and lows of her career.
Ultimately, while Elvis Presley remained a significant figure in her life, Ann-Margret’s commitment to her husband Roger Smith was rooted in a love that transcended the fleeting excitement of a celebrity connection, proving that sometimes, the most meaningful relationships are the ones that are built on trust and steadfast support.