07/24/2025
In the winter of 1992, Elizabeth Montgomery quietly made her way to a modest home in Rockford, Michigan, to visit her former *Bewitched* co-star, Dick York. York was bedridden, weakened by the final stages of emphysema. The two hadn’t spoken in over twenty years, since York left the show in 1969 after years of debilitating back pain took its toll. When Montgomery entered the room, dressed simply in a wool coat and without any entourage, York’s eyes filled with tears. Taking his hand gently, she whispered, “Hey, partner.” His soft reply came without hesitation: “Samantha.” It was a poignant moment of recognition—a reunion long overdue, without any fanfare.
As they spent time together, Montgomery reminisced about their early days on the set—how laughter often erupted during takes, and how York once sneezed during a levitation scene, ruining five takes straight. Though York could barely speak, he smiled and nodded, never letting go of her hand. For a few precious hours, it felt as if time had rewound, transporting them back to the familiar soundstage where their friendship and partnership had blossomed—rooted in trust, timing, and genuine affection. There were no cameras, no press—just two people reconnecting over something deeply unspoken but never forgotten.
Montgomery had arranged the visit privately, through York’s daughter, requesting only a little time and solitude. After she left, York told his caregivers repeatedly, “She came all this way. She still cares.” His daughter later revealed that his spirits were noticeably lifted for days after the visit. That quiet act of kindness—Elizabeth Montgomery’s presence—meant far more to him than any public tribute ever could. It was a rare moment of true humanity in an industry that often overlooks those who have been wounded.
Their time together on *Bewitched* had created one of television’s most beloved couples. Despite York’s health struggles during the show, he never harbored resentment toward Montgomery or the production when he was replaced by Dick Sargent. While Sargent’s portrayal maintained the show’s momentum, many believed the original chemistry between Samantha and Darrin was irreplaceable. Montgomery’s private visit years later seemed to acknowledge that unspoken truth—that a special connection had existed between them both on-screen and off.
Elizabeth Montgomery never spoke publicly about that final meeting. She didn’t seek attention or nostalgia from the moment. Instead, she kept it private, allowing it to remain theirs alone. Those close to York said the visit brought him peace. For Montgomery, it was a heartfelt farewell—not just to a co-star, but to a treasured chapter of her life. She came not as a star, but as a true friend.
