In the bewitching world of the television series "Bewitched," Samantha Stephens casts
a spell on audiences with her enchanting charm and magical abilities.
As a cunning witch who balances her extraordinary powers with her desire for a normal, mortal
life, Samantha's character has become an icon in the realm of classic TV shows.
Within this magical universe, Samantha's husband, Darrin, played a central role in her life.
However, as we delve into the depths of Samantha's story, we begin to question whether Darrin
truly deserved this extraordinary woman.
In this video, we will explore the many oft-touted reasons why Samantha should have parted ways
with Darrin and uncover the truth about how she really deserved a better partner.
Beyond this examination of their relationship, we will also unveil a collection of little-known
facts about the series and Samantha herself—details that the show's creators concealed from eager
viewers.
So, grab your broomsticks and join us as we uncover these mysteries and explore the untold
aspects of Samantha Stephens' journey.
Facts Verse Presents: Samantha Stephens' Husband Didn't Deserve Her on Bewitched
Sam Was The “Full Package”
Even well into the 21st century, Samantha Stephens remains an iconic name, representing
one of the most memorable TV characters in the history of the medium.
She embodies a multitude of admirable qualities that make her truly remarkable, while her
husband, Darrin, arguably falls short in comparison.
Samantha exudes class, humor, wit, kindness, exceptional problem-solving skills, and seemingly
boundless patience.
Stick around, as we'll touch on these qualities in the next few minutes before explaining
why we believe Darrin was a bit of an idiot.
Viewers of Bewitched were captivated by Samantha's character, portrayed by the talented Elizabeth
Montgomery.
The ensemble cast as a whole, including Aunt Clara (Marion Lorne), Dr. Bombay (Bernard
Fox), Endora (Agnes Moorehead), and Uncle Arthur (Paul Lynde), all contributed to the
show's dynamic and comedic charm.
Samantha's presence brought out the best in everyone around her.
She often played the role of peacemaker, skillfully resolving conflicts, particularly between
Endora and Darrin.
Her bravery, strength, creativity, and positive outlook were truly inspiring.
Samantha's character emanated sweetness and unwavering compassion, serving as a role model
for many who aspired to emulate her.
Her trademark "nose twitch" and catchphrase, "Oh my stars!"
have likewise become iconic elements of the show's legacy.
Let us explore the exceptional qualities that made Samantha truly amazing.
Elegance and Femininity
Samantha effortlessly epitomized the elegance of the 1960s and 1970s fashion.
Whether she was going shopping or engaging in other activities, she consistently dressed
impeccably.
Her wardrobe included stylish dresses, gloves, heels, and matching handbags—a complete
ensemble that reflected her timeless sense of style.
One of Samantha's notable fashion moments was her pink outfit in the show's first episode,
"I, Darrin, Take This Witch, Samantha."
The pink ensemble perfectly complemented her appearance, with her blonde hair styled to
perfection and subtle yet flattering makeup.
Samantha radiated confidence and poise, ready to take on the world—a fateful day that
led to her meeting her future husband.
Over the years, Samantha's style evolved along with the changing fashion trends from 1964
to 1972, the duration of Bewitched.
She transitioned from classy solid colors, gloves, and heels to more colorful jumpsuits
and sandals, embracing new fashion statements that reflected her adventurous spirit.
While her outfits maintained a modesty befitting her role as a housewife, they were far from
dull.
Samantha's collection included a wide array of vibrant and beautiful attire, suitable
not only for her daily activities but also for important dinners and parties.
Of course, we cannot overlook Samantha's iconic black dress with attached cape, which she
donned when entering her "witch mode."
This ensemble signified her serious intentions, whether it involved teaching someone a lesson
or causing mischief.
Notably, she wore this attire in the memorable episode "Follow That Witch (Part 2)" to exact
revenge on the slimy private detective Charlie Leach (Robert Strauss), who had blackmailed
her.
Samantha's retaliation involved undoing everything she had granted him, including transforming
his new car into a child's toy.
When he later threatened her, Samantha effortlessly sent him elsewhere.
Boundless Kindness
Although she wasn't someone you'd be wise to provoke, Samantha possessed an innate kindness
that extended to all those around her.
Throughout the series, she generously helped numerous individuals, animals, and even supernatural
beings, treating them with warmth and compassion.
From boosting a young boy's self-confidence by magically turning him into a star baseball
player in Season 1 to aiding a runaway racehorse in Season 2, Samantha consistently demonstrated
her goodwill.
Although her initial attempts might not always have succeeded, her intentions were always
sincere.
Her kindness extended even to those who may not have deserved it, such as Darrin's mother
in the episode "Samantha Meets the Folks."
Despite Phyllis' overly critical nature and her tendency to belittle Samantha, driven
by fear of being replaced, Samantha continued to show kindness and concern throughout their
encounters.
Samantha yearned for Phyllis' approval and went out of her way to exhibit kindness, displaying
exceptional compassion in the face of cruelty.
Samantha's unwavering kindness towards a challenging mother-in-law like Phyllis undoubtedly earned
her significant admiration, although Samantha never sought recognition—her only desire
was for Darrin's parents to accept her.
She also demonstrated great compassion for her elderly Aunt Clara, who often struggled
with her magic and made unconventional entrances via the chimney.
Samantha and Clara shared a loving bond, the most nurturing among Samantha's relatives.
Despite the occasional frustrations other family members felt towards Aunt Clara's frequent
mishaps, Samantha's patience remained unwavering.
She consistently offered her aunt sympathy, assistance, and unwavering goodwill.
However, Samantha was far from a pushover.
She possessed a sharp sense of humor that could diffuse tense situations.
Yet, if someone crossed the line, she fearlessly taught them valuable lessons.
Whether temporarily transforming a harasser into a dog or making Darrin's ex, Sheila,
appear foolish at a party while enduring Sheila's persistent advances and insults, Samantha
always stood up for herself.
Should Sam Have Divorced Darrin?
There is a popular belief that Samantha should have divorced Darrin due to his portrayal,
at least as seen by some, as the worst husband in the show.
Critics argue that Samantha's complete compliance with his demanding and irrational behavior
towards her true nature was disheartening.
While Darrin's character often dealt with a difficult mother-in-law, there are those
who question who the true villain was in this scenario.
Many argue that Endora had valid reasons to despise her misogynistic son-in-law.
Some find it shocking that Samantha desired to conform to the rules set by her tyrant
of a husband.
They highlight an episode where Samantha is cleaning the oven and Endora expresses her
displeasure at seeing her engaged in such domestic tasks.
While Endora's disgust is understandable, critics also find Samantha's contentment with
her housewifely duties equally troubling.
Acknowledging that Samantha's behavior could be seen as enjoying mortal life as a lark,
critics contend that the real theme of Bewitched extends beyond her choice to live as a mortal.
They argue that it portrays a man dominating a woman and prohibiting her from being true
to herself, perpetuating the myth of women's subservience to men.
Darrin's constant demands for Samantha to abandon her true nature and conform to mortal
behavior reflect the societal expectations placed on women to adhere to their husbands'
desires.
Furthermore, critics assert that his consistent reminders of being the "King" of his castle
and his hypocritical acceptance of Samantha's magic only when it suited him make him one
of the most reprehensible characters in television history.
The show's theme of a husband's power over his wife's abilities and her need to conceal
her true self is seen as a representation of the brainwashing experienced by women in
the fifties.
Critics argue that it perpetuated the idea that women should conform to societal expectations,
limiting their opportunities for personal growth and fulfillment.
It is saddening to some that Samantha continues to use her powers behind Darrin's back, suggesting
that she is comfortable with her true self but succumbs to his demands to please him.
This notion of a good marriage involving partners hiding and sneaking around to pursue their
forbidden joys is seen as problematic.
Critics believe that Samantha's self-denial to appease a man is even more disheartening.
Furthermore, characters like Darrin Stephens are seen as detrimental to the women's movement,
as they reinforce the notion that husbands have control and women must be clever in hiding
their true selves.
The capability Samantha possesses to change her life and the world with a twitch of her
nose being forbidden highlights the limitations placed on women and their freedom of choice.
In conclusion, the absence of unconditional love and acceptance in Bewitched is disappointing.
Critics contend that it is unfair to dictate how a woman should live, what choices she
should make, or what she is capable of.
They believe that no one should have the power to define who a person should be, and women
should have the freedom to make their own choices without being restrained or confined
by societal expectations.
Bewitching Secrets
While all throughout Bewitch’s run Samantha Stephens aimed to keep her witchy identity
a secret from her husband Darrin, the show itself had a few tricks up its sleeve to captivate
viewers.
One well-known secret involves the so-called "Darrin Switcheroo."
Without any warning or explanation, Dick Sargent replaced Dick York as Darrin, causing a noticeable
change in the character's portrayal.
This switcheroo, now playfully referred to as "The Darrin Syndrome," didn't go unnoticed
by keen-eyed fans.
Another character with a mysterious transformation was Gladys Kravitz, the nosy neighbor.
Initially portrayed by Alice Pearce, the role was later taken over by Sandra Gould, leaving
viewers to wonder about the sudden change without any acknowledgment.
Elizabeth Montgomery, who played Samantha, showcased her range as an actress by taking
on a dual role.
In addition to her portrayal of the witch-turned-housewife, Montgomery also played Samantha's mischievous
cousin, Serena.
Interestingly, the credit for Serena's character was given to a fictitious actress named "Pandora
Spocks," adding an extra layer of intrigue.
Fans of the show might have also noticed a sense of familiarity in the settings.
The iconic facade of Samantha and Darrin's house was not exclusive to Bewitched—it
appeared in other popular shows like Dennis the Menace and I Dream of Jeannie.
This shared set design allowed for cost-effective production while creating a subtle connection
between different television universes.
Last but not least - one of Bewitched's most iconic features was Samantha's nose twitch,
which she used to perform her magical acts.
However, the truth behind the nose twitch is quite surprising.
Erin Murphy, the actress who portrayed Samantha and Darrin's daughter, Tabitha, revealed that
she never attempted the nose twitch on-screen.
The producers believed it wouldn't be appropriate for a young witch, so the nose twitch performed
by Elizabeth Montgomery was actually a clever camera trick involving her mouth.
We're just about out of time, but before we wrap things up, we'd love to hear from you!
Do you think that Samantha deserved better and should have divorced Darrin or do you
think that he did his best to be a loving and supportive husband despite his flaws?
Share your thoughts and insights in the comments section down below.
And as always, thanks for watching!