Bewitched star Erin Murphy, 60 – who played Tabitha on the 1960s TV series – gives RARE interview

Bewitched star Erin Murphy, 60 - who played Tabitha on the 1960s TV series - gives RARE interview

As a dedicated follower who grew up enchanted by the magical world of Bewitched, I can confidently say that my heart belongs to Dick York as Darrin Stephens. Having shared the screen with both actors, I’ve witnessed their performances firsthand and have come to appreciate the unique charm each brought to the role. However, there’s something about the warmth and paternal vibe that Dick York exuded on set that made him stand out for me – perhaps it was because he had a “lot of kids” off-screen too!


Bewitched child star Erin Murphy, 60, has given a rare interview.

At last, she’s disclosed who her preferred Darrin is – the character portrayed by two distinct actors as the earthly father/spouse in the cherished sitcom, best known for their roles.

Murphy, who enchanted viewers as Tabitha, the magical daughter character-shared by Samantha (Elizabeth Montgomery) and Darrin Stephens’ witch daughter, is now 60 years old and among the last surviving original cast members of Bewitched, together with her on-screen twin sister Diane.

Over time, there’s been much discussion among fans about who suited the role of Darrin best, between Dick York’s original portrayal and Dick Sargent’s version. Now, Murphy aims to put this debate to rest.

She confessed to People on Saturday that she’s always been careful with her words due to her affection for both individuals. They were truly remarkable men. As for the television show, she believes Dick York portrays Darrin more convincingly.

From 1964 through 1969, York played the part of Darrin that he had assumed, but a severe back problem made him exit the show. Later on, Sargent stepped into the role and continued until the program ended in 1972.

Bewitched star Erin Murphy, 60 - who played Tabitha on the 1960s TV series - gives RARE interview

Bewitched star Erin Murphy, 60 - who played Tabitha on the 1960s TV series - gives RARE interview

Murphy warmly reminisced about her strong connection with York, recounting the ways he assumed a paternal figure for her, not just in their acting roles but also behind the scenes as well.

As a lifestyle consultant, I’d express it like this: “Being a father to many, Dick York naturally assumed a more nurturing role, which is what I often observe in parents who have multiple children.

She stated, “In essence, he felt more like a father figure to me. Dick Sargent was an exceptional individual, and our friendship continued until his demise. However, when it comes to this particular role, I prefer Dick York.

Sixty years on, Bewitched continues to captivate. 

The show centers on Samantha, a witch who marries a regular man, Darrin Stephens. 

Despite her promises to lead an ordinary life as a housewife, her magical abilities consistently cause chaos and mishaps in their daily routine.

Murphy shared that the show was such a significant part of his upbringing, as it essentially shaped his entire childhood, and he feels fortunate for this experience.

Starting from 1966, the actress joined the series playing the role of Tabitha, who was Darrin and Samantha’s daughter. She stayed with the show until it concluded in 1972.

Bewitched star Erin Murphy, 60 - who played Tabitha on the 1960s TV series - gives RARE interview
Bewitched star Erin Murphy, 60 - who played Tabitha on the 1960s TV series - gives RARE interview

As a devoted follower, I was fortunate enough to be cast alongside my twin sister, Diane, in the role of Tabitha. This was done to adhere to U.S. child labor laws that restricted the number of working hours for each of us.

However, just as Murphy explained to Studio 10 in March 2020, the two – herself and Diane – being fraternal twins wasn’t immediately obvious when they were hired, since they don’t bear a striking resemblance to each other.

She described how they later on displayed her sister from behind, or at a distance, and following the initial year, she assumed control.

Additionally, Murphy commented about Montgomery, who passed away due to cancer in May 1995 at the age of 62, stating that she was similar to a mother figure for her. He further mentioned that they had a strong bond off the set, and he held great affection for her.

Despite Agnes Moorehead, the actress who portrayed Samantha’s mother Endora, not being her primary co-star, she held a special place in her heart. Agnes was more like a loving grandmother to her, and she found her captivating, vibrant, and full of joy.

‘And her favorite colour was purple and everything in her dressing room was purple.’

In the 1970s, a brief spin-off show titled Tabitha premiered, with Lisa Hartman portraying the character as she had grown up.

Following the conclusion of Bewitched in 1972, Erin Murphy retired from the limelight, yet continuous re-runs ensured she remained recognizable to audiences.

Starting her role as Tabitha at just two years old, Murphy graduated from El Toro High School in Lake Forest, California, in 1981. 

Bewitched star Erin Murphy, 60 - who played Tabitha on the 1960s TV series - gives RARE interview
Bewitched star Erin Murphy, 60 - who played Tabitha on the 1960s TV series - gives RARE interview

Later on, she delved into diverse positions within the field, including a casting director, makeup artist, wardrobe stylist, drama coach, and stand-in for action scenes.

Over time, this woman with six children resumed her career in show business, becoming a television host on networks such as Fox Reality Channel and E!, and presenting numerous infomercials.

Currently, she is simultaneously pursuing her career as both an actress and voice artist for various projects. Additionally, she shares ownership in Slim Chillers, a company specializing in alcoholic popsicles.

2019 saw her returning to the character of Tabitha in the comedic web series TV Therapy, a show where characters from well-known TV shows receive psychological analysis.

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2024-10-21 19:41

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