Remembering Tabitha from “Bewitched”: Erin Murphy’s Life On and Off the Set

Nov 12, 2021 | By the apost team

With a vast array of contemporary television shows and movies, it’s easy to overlook the timeless classics that laid the groundwork for today’s entertainment. One such classic is the beloved 1960s sitcom “Bewitched,” starring Elizabeth Montgomery as the good-hearted witch Samantha, and Dick York (later replaced by Dick Sargent) as her mortal husband, Darrin. “Bewitched” charmed audiences with its unique blend of magic, humor, and the everyday realities of suburban life. The couple’s story—Samantha agreeing to a “normal” life while keeping her magical abilities under wraps—delighted millions, and its influence persists today in pop culture.

The series offered an enchanting glimpse into a world where magic and mortals coexist, often leading the central couple into amusing predicaments. With her iconic nose twitch, Samantha would cast spells, creating memorable moments that still inspire nostalgia for fans worldwide.

In its third season, the show welcomed a new face—Tabitha, Samantha and Darrin’s magical daughter, played primarily by Erin Murphy. Alongside her twin sister, Diane, Murphy shared the role until their differing appearances led to Erin becoming the sole Tabitha. Today, Erin Murphy reflects on her unique upbringing on the “Bewitched” set, sharing her appreciation for the experiences and relationships she formed. Let’s dive deeper into her journey, the lasting impact of “Bewitched,” and how Erin Murphy has continued to shape her life since the show ended.

The “Bewitched” Experience: Erin Murphy as Tabitha

Dick York, George Tobias, Sandra Gould, Elizabeth Montgomery, Erin Murphy (circa 1966), (Silver Screen Collection/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

Erin Murphy was born on June 17, 1964, in Encino, California. By just two years old, she had begun her acting career when she and her twin sister, Diane, were cast as Tabitha Stephens on “Bewitched.” Erin took over as the sole portrayer as the series progressed, ultimately appearing in 103 episodes from the third season until the show’s finale in 1972. For Murphy, the set was a second home, and the cast and crew became an extension of her family.

“From the time I was a baby, I loved it,” Murphy told ABC News. “I liked the lights and loved being on my set.” While her sister, Diane, was less enthusiastic about being on camera, Erin thrived in the television environment.

Camaraderie with her co-stars played a significant role in her positive memories. She recounted calling Elizabeth Montgomery “Mantha Mommy” because saying Samantha was difficult as a toddler, and Dick Sargent was known as “Darrin Daddy.” These relationships went beyond mere professionalism—Murphy truly saw them as parental figures, underscoring the familial atmosphere during filming.

“A lot of people who knew Liz well and knew me told me how much I’m like her. And I think it’s because we spent 12 hours a day together growing up. I looked to her as a parent, and she would tell me what to do like a parent. In a lot of ways I’m so much like her than I am my own mom, which is hilarious.” — Erin Murphy

Starting her acting journey at age two, Erin witnessed the show’s evolution up close, recalling many off-camera stories and behind-the-scenes antics. For Murphy, the memories were not confined to what viewers saw on screen, but also included cherished moments like meals with the crew and playful days with on-set animals ranging from chimpanzees to elephants.

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Murphy’s recollections are rich and vivid—not just of the filming but of the people who shaped her formative years. Along with Montgomery and Sargent, she developed a special bond with Agnes Moorehead, who played Samantha’s flamboyant mother Endora.

Dick York, Elizabeth Montgomery, Erin Murphy (circa 1968), (Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

“I loved her like a grandparent. I had grandparents who lived in other states I didn’t get to see and she didn’t have grandchildren, and we had a really great, loving relationship. She’d do little things like draw little cartoons for me in between scenes. She’d tell me stories. I loved going into her dressing room because everything was purple. I just thought she was the most colorful, most beautiful person,” Murphy told ABC News.

“Bewitched” has cemented its place as a cultural classic because of its ability to appeal to various audiences. Murphy notes that the show’s magical, whimsical nature and its emphasis on hidden identities—especially Samantha’s secret life—resonated with the LGBTQ community and many others who understood the concept of concealment and acceptance.

For Murphy, the impact of “Bewitched” goes beyond nostalgia; it’s about the universal desire for acceptance and belonging, brought to life by the show’s relatable struggles and enchanting storytelling.

After “Bewitched”: Adjusting to Life Beyond the Spotlight

Elizabeth Montgomery, Erin Murphy (1968), (Bettmann/Contributor/Getty Images)

After “Bewitched” concluded in 1972, Murphy expanded her resume with appearances in the classic TV series “Lassie” and the film “Deadly Fighters.” However, her family’s move from Los Angeles to Orange County led her to pause her acting pursuits. This transition allowed Murphy to enjoy a childhood that balanced both television fame and normal childhood experiences.

She reflected, “I was offered jobs right after ‘Bewitched,’ and I turned them down. I went to Girl Scout camp instead of doing a part on ‘The Waltons.’ So I kind of walked away from the business.” Though she still took on occasional roles, Murphy moved away from the relentless pace of auditions and the often challenging child actor circuit, choosing opportunities over endless job-seeking.

Despite these changes, she never regretted her decision. The experiences, friendships, and memories she accumulated outweighed the earlier demands of stardom. “You can look at the long, hard hours, or you can look at all the positives. And for me, there are so many more positives than negatives,” Murphy candidly shared.

Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick York, Agnes Moorhead (1965), (Bettmann/Contributor/Getty Images)

After graduating from El Toro High School—where she was active as a cheerleader and homecoming queen—Murphy ventured into the world of modeling, representing outfits by Hang Ten swimwear, and featured in over 100 commercials. She transitioned behind the scenes as well, working in casting, as a makeup artist, and a fashion stylist. Notably, Murphy was also a stunt double for actress Virginia Madsen.

Her adaptability opened doors in other spheres: She took on hosting and correspondent roles for channels like TV Land, Fox Reality Channel, and E! Network, as well as starring in a variety of infomercials. More recently, she became the host of Disney’s “Parentpedia” and in 2014, co-founded “Slim Chillers,” a company producing frozen low-calorie vodka martini popsicles.

As a mother, Murphy has also used her voice to advocate for autism awareness, inspired by her son’s diagnosis. She explains, “I have a strong belief that you need to give back. I’m really lucky for the life I have and the opportunities I’ve had. And you could either let them take you to do the wrong things or figure out how to use those opportunities to do something good.”

Erin Murphy Today: Family, Advocacy, and Looking Forward

Elizabeth Montgomery (1965), (Bettmann/Contributor/Getty Images)

Erin Murphy’s personal life has been filled with transitions, triumphs, and ongoing growth. She has been married three times, first to Terry Rogers, with whom she had two sons, then to Eric Eden, with whom she shares a son, and since 1998 to her current husband, Darren Dunckel, with whom she has three more sons. With six boys, Murphy speaks proudly of encouraging their individuality and supporting their diverse interests. As she describes, “I have six boys who are as different as six people could be, and they’re all amazing.”

Her positive, optimistic philosophy is not limited to her family. Murphy often speaks about the power of choosing one’s attitude and finding happiness despite challenges. She instills these values in her children, teaching them that while we can’t control what happens around us, we can always control our response to it. “I’ve raised some really, really optimistic kids who take advantage of things and enjoy things, and they have my philosophy. You can choose to laugh or cry,” she told Closer Weekly.

This approach has helped her navigate both the demands and the unpredictability of a career in entertainment. Murphy remains active in theater, web series, and pilots, mostly out of passion and personal connection rather than ambition for fame. Her priorities remain her children and her charitable work, especially raising awareness about autism spectrum disorders.

Diane, Erin (1968), (Bettmann/Contributor/Getty Images)

Outside her professional achievements, Murphy finds fulfillment in small joys and meaningful relationships. “I’ve traveled around the world. I’ve had so many great opportunities and actually know people like Carol Burnett. When she gets up and talks at the Golden Globes that everybody’s watching, I’m thinking, ‘I know her!'” Her connections illustrate a lifetime’s worth of experiences shaped not just by fame, but by friendships, adventure, and curiosity.

Erin Murphy also channels her creativity into entrepreneurial pursuits. In 2021, she founded Erin Murphy Knits, focusing on luxurious hand-knit alpaca fashions. Despite her varied interests, she always carves out time for her children and ensures she enjoys life’s pleasures along the way.

“This last year I bought my dream car, which is a Tesla. I bought my dream house on the beach. I still have three kids at home and I’m just kind of, you know, figuring out what I want to do for the rest of my life; whether I want to work or just do a couple of fun projects. You see a lot of people and they work and they work, and they never take the time to enjoy themselves. So I’m making sure that I enjoy myself along the way.”

As for returning to acting? Murphy keeps an open door, saying, “I haven’t had an acting agent in years, even though I still do a few acting jobs every year. I do a lot of theater now. I’ve done a bunch of webseries and pilots, basically as favors to friends. I’m committed to being a parent and I have one son with autism, so that takes a lot of my time. I have no complaints. Life is great.”

The Enduring Legacy of “Bewitched” and Erin Murphy’s Life Philosophy

Erin Murphy (2021), (Michael Tullberg/Getty Images Entertainment via Getty Images)

The story of Erin Murphy is one of gratitude, resilience, and the enduring power of classic television. As Tabitha in “Bewitched,” she played a role that continues to inspire and delight audiences more than five decades later. But perhaps even more notable is how she leveraged her early fame into a life enriched by strong family bonds, advocacy, successful business ventures, and a never-ending curiosity for the world.

Murphy’s narrative is especially relevant for today’s child actors, highlighting both the challenges and possibilities that accompany early stardom. By embracing optimism, prioritizing personal values, and remaining open to new opportunities, Murphy has demonstrated how a Hollywood upbringing can lead to a fulfilling, balanced, and joyful adult life. Whether on screen or off, her journey continues to encourage others to make the most of every opportunity and to view life’s ups and downs with a sense of hope and humor.

Do you remember Tabitha from “Bewitched”? Were you a fan of the television series? Share your memories with friends and family as we celebrate the lasting legacy of Erin Murphy and this iconic show.

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Disclaimer: This content is intended for entertainment purposes only and is not based on real events.

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