Elizabeth Montgomery, forever remembered as the charming Samantha Stephens on Bewitched, captured the hearts of millions with her signature nose twitch and timeless grace. But away from the cameras, one of her greatest roles was being a mother—especially to her eldest son, Bill Asher Jr.
Born in 1964 to Elizabeth and famed TV director William Asher, Bill grew up surrounded by creativity. With both parents immersed in the world of television—his father having directed iconic shows like Bewitched and I Love Lucy—Bill was raised in a home where storytelling was second nature. Yet he chose a different path, one that traded scripts for strings.
Instead of pursuing acting, Bill found his passion in craftsmanship. He became a respected luthier, founding Asher Guitars & Lap Steels, where he hand-builds custom guitars for top musicians. His instruments are celebrated for their vintage tone, aesthetic quality, and meticulous craftsmanship.
A Hollywood Love, Then a Quiet Separation
Elizabeth Montgomery married William Asher in 1963 at the height of both their careers. They were a power couple in the golden age of television—he directing Bewitched, she starring in it.
Together, they had three children, including Bill. But by the early 1970s, their marriage began to fray. The pressures of Hollywood, demanding schedules, and personal differences ultimately led to their divorce in 1973.
Following her split from Asher, Elizabeth had several significant relationships. She was linked romantically to director Richard Michaels, who had also worked on Bewitched. Their relationship, which began while the show was still airing, contributed to its eventual end. Later, she found lasting companionship with actor Robert Foxworth. The two remained together for nearly two decades, marrying in 1993—just two years before her passing in 1995.
Despite the ups and downs of her romantic life, Elizabeth was known for remaining a devoted and loving mother. She worked hard to keep her children grounded, even while navigating the complexities of fame, work, and personal reinvention.
