Too often in the 1960s, Ann-Margret was unfairly labeled as just a “sex kitten.” However, her career went far beyond the hip-swiveling breakout that first brought her into the spotlight. Over the next four decades, she demonstrated her incredible talent and enduring presence as a singer, dancer, and accomplished dramatic actress. Ann-Margret’s journey began on the cabaret stage, a place she would return to throughout her life, especially as a Las Vegas entertainer and host on TV variety shows.
Her fiery and captivating style first gained attention in Elvis Presley’s “Viva Las Vegas” (1964) and the musical “Bye Bye Birdie” (1963), both of which highlighted her striking beauty, sultry voice, and energetic dance moves. As the 1970s rolled in, Ann-Margret began to shift perceptions of her as merely a glamorous starlet. She earned critical acclaim for her dramatic acting skills, receiving an Oscar nomination for her role in Mike Nichols’ “Carnal Knowledge” (1971) and winning a Golden Globe for her performance in the rock opera “Tommy” (1975).
Throughout her career, Ann-Margret remained a versatile and consistent presence on television. She starred in a number of made-for-TV movies that earned her over a dozen Golden Globe and Emmy nominations, including standout performances in “A Streetcar Named Desire” (ABC, 1984) and “Queen” (CBS, 1993). Then, in the 1990s, Ann-Margret made a notable return to the big screen with a comedic flair. She embraced her sensual image once more in the popular films “Grumpy Old Men” (1993) and its sequel “Grumpier Old Men” (1995), playing a charming older love interest. She also introduced herself to younger audiences through memorable roles as mothers in comedies like “The Break-up” (2006), “Old Dogs” (2009), and “Going In Style” (2017).
Ann-Margret always carried herself with the grace of a classic entertainer, rooted in the traditions of live performance and stage presence. Her screen versatility allowed her to deliver sharp, witty dialogue or portray deep emotional vulnerability when needed. Whether cracking a joke or conveying the struggles of a woman in crisis, Ann-Margret remained a respected and cherished figure among Hollywood’s veteran stars.
When it comes to Ann-Margret’s career highlights, one film that truly stands out is Carnal Knowledge from 1971—it’s widely regarded as her highest rated performance in movie or music projects. Over the years, fans and critics alike have praised Ann-Margret for her compelling role in that film, which really showcased her depth as an actress. On the other hand, not every project reached the same level of acclaim. For instance, The Villain, released in 1979, ended up being her lowest rated movie or musical endeavor. While Ann-Margret brought her signature charm, the overall reception wasn’t as strong. Still, it’s interesting to see how Ann-Margret’s body of work spans such a range—from standout performances to more forgettable ones—yet her talent remains undeniable throughout.