‘Dark Shadows’ Icon David Selby Received Elizabeth Montgomery Award at ‘Bewitched’ FanFare

Herbie J Pilato September 20, 5:14 pm

From left: Mark R. Simpson, David Selby, Chris York, Herbie J Pilato Credit: Lydia Camargo

This week marked the 60th anniversary of Bewitched’s debut on ABC, September 17, 1964.

On September 14, 2024, the Beverly Garland Theatre in North Hollywood, CA, played host to the 60th anniversary Bewitched FanFare, orchestrated by Mark R. Simpson. The event was co-sponsored by the Classic TV Preservation Society (CTVPS), my nonprofit organization dedicated to the positive social influence of classic television programming and its stars. Elizabeth Montgomery, who died in 1995 from cancer, was the star of Bewitched. As Samantha Stephens, the witch with a twitch, Montgomery be-spelled viewers with her magical appeal.

The double photo of David Selby and Elizabeth.

Classic TV Preservation Society

Montgomery, daughter of famed actor Robert Montgomery, co-starred on Bewitched with Dick York and then Dick Sargent as her mortal TV husband Darrin. Samantha’s feisty mother Endora was played by the iconic Agnes Moorehead.

In real life, Montgomery was a dedicated advocate for several social and political causes and donated her time, money and public persona towards many charitable organizations. Actor David Selby is best known as Quentin Collins on TV’s legendary gothic daytime drama Dark Shadows, and as Richard Channing on TV’s iconic primetime soap Falcon Crest.

Like Montgomery, David Selby (who is alive and well and as vibrant as ever), utilizes his public persona for the highest good of all those concerned. As the Founder of the CTVPS, On September 14, 2024, and as the author of Twitch Upon a Star and The Essential Elizabeth Montgomery (twin biographies of the magnetic actress), I was honored and privileged to present Mr. Selby with the Elizabeth Montgomery Magical Humanitarian Award at the Bewitched FanFare.

David Selby and Herbie J Pilato Credit: Lydia Camargo

The following words are ingrained on the Award’s plaque:

David Selby,

In recognition, appreciation, and gratitude for your immortal goodwill, “down to earth” personality, and personal and professional integrity as a multi-talented member of the entertainment community.

Thank you for your countless artistic skills and abilities as an actor and writer; your grace and humility as a human being, your generosity and tireless dedication to the arts and humanities, and countless charities and good causes.

The entertainment world, and the world in general, is a better place because of you and your prolific and pure heart, soul, and creative spirit.

Credit: Mark R. Simpson

Other special guests at the Bewitched FanFare included Chris York, son of actor Dick York, Bewitched special guest star Kit Smythe (who was the original choice to play Ginger on Gilligan’s Island), and entertainment historians/archivists Rob Ray and Pat McFadden (pictured below).