5 Things You Never Knew About Dick Sargent

Lauren Novak April 19, 10:40 am

BEWITCHED, Dick Sargent, 1964-1972 — Everett Collection

Born on April 19, 1930, Dick Sargent became best known as the “other Darrin,” the actor who stepped into the role of Darrin Stephens on Bewitched after Dick York‘s departure. But behind that famous TV face was a man with a rich, layered life. He quietly made history, took bold personal stands, and left a legacy that went far beyond sitcom stardom.

While he passed away on July 8, 1994, at the age of 64, these five interesting stories will give a glimpse into who he was and why his legacy still stands today.

1 He almost played Darrin from the very beginning

Bewitched Dick Sargent, Elizabeth Montgomery, 1964-72

Everett Collection

Sargent was offered the role of Darrin Stephens in 1964, when Bewitched was pulling together the cast for its first season. At the time, however, he was under contract with Universal Studios and had to decline, so the part went to Dick York.

When York had to step away from the series due to chronic back issues, the opportunity circled back. Sargent joined the show in its sixth season and played Darrin for the final three years. Fans were divided at first, but Sargent gave the role his own spin, balancing comedic timing with an easygoing charm that won many over. Which Darrin is your favorite?

2 He shared his life with a long-time partner

Everett Collection

During a time when being openly gay could mean the end of a Hollywood career, Sargent lived as privately as he could. He had a partner with whom he shared more than 20 years of his life, until the man’s sudden death from a cerebral hemorrhage in 1979. In his early career, Sargent even “manufactured” a fictional wife for press interviews to protect both his privacy and his livelihood. Later, he found love again with writer and producer Albert Williams, who remained his partner until his death.

3 He came out publicly in 1991

Everett Collection

Sargent made headlines when he came out as gay on National Coming Out Day in 1991. He was already battling prostate cancer at the time and knew people might assume he had AIDS, which he didn’t. He hoped to be, in his words, a “retroactive role model” for young people, especially those struggling with their identity. His decision helped pave the way for more honest conversations in Hollywood and beyond.

4 He used his platform to help others, not just entertain

Everett Collection

In the 1980s, Sargent joined actress Sally Struthers to work with the Christian Children’s Fund, bringing aid and attention to children in developing countries. He also supported the Special Olympics, the World Hunger organization, and multiple AIDS-related causes. Whether it was speaking up for LGBTQ+ rights or quietly lending support behind the scenes, Sargent believed in showing up where he could. His later years were marked not just by screen appearances but by a sincere commitment to service.

5 His friendship with Elizabeth Montgomery was real

BEWITCHED, Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick Sargent, 1964-72

Everett Collection

Even though he wasn’t part of Bewitched from the start, Sargent developed a genuine friendship with his co-star, Elizabeth Montgomery. The two remained close off-screen, and in 1992, they were honored as Grand Marshals of the Los Angeles Gay Pride Parade. After Sargent passed away in 1994 from prostate cancer, Montgomery publicly mourned him, remembering his “remarkable courage” and sense of humor.