Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit one of the most iconic TV shows of the 1960s: Bewitched. This classic series, which aired on ABC from 1964 to 1972, was a delightful twist on the domestic sitcom formula. Instead of focusing on an ordinary family, it centered on Darrin Stephens, a down-to-earth advertising executive played by Dick York (and later by Dick Sargent), who falls head over heels for Samantha, a charming witch portrayed by the incomparable Elizabeth Montgomery. Together, they navigate the challenges of married life—only with a sprinkle of magic. Of course, no magical journey would be complete without interference from Endora, Samantha’s mischievous mother, brought to life by the legendary Agnes Moorehead.

At first glance, the premise might seem like it could wear thin over time. After all, shows like My Favorite Martian, Mister Ed, and even Gilligan’s Island relied heavily on quirky concepts. But Bewitched managed to captivate audiences for eight full seasons. What made it so special? The answer lies in its incredible cast. Beyond the main characters, the show featured unforgettable guest stars, like Paul Lynde, who played Samantha’s witty Uncle Arthur. Even though he only appeared in 11 episodes, his larger-than-life personality made fans feel like he was part of the family.

bewitched-cast-main-2-1 — Moviestore/Shutterstock

Exploring the Lives of the Cast Behind the Magic

Just like we’ve done with other legendary shows such as Father Knows Best and The Addams Family, today we’re diving deep into the lives of the Bewitched cast—before, during, and after the series. To help us uncover these stories, we’ve enlisted the expertise of two TV historians: Herbie J. Pilato and Ed Robertson. Herbie is not only the host of the streaming Amazon/Shout Factory Classic TV Talk Show Then Again With Herbie J Pilato, but also the author of several books about the show and its star, Elizabeth Montgomery. If you’re a fan, you’ll want to check out his works, including Twitch Upon a Star: The Bewitched Life and Career of Elizabeth Montgomery, The Essential Elizabeth Montgomery: A Guide to Her Magical Performances, and Bewitched Forever. Meanwhile, Ed Robertson has written extensively about TV history and hosts the popular podcast TV Confidential.