Erin Murphy once lit up screens as Tabitha Stephens on the hit series Bewitched. Millions recognized her instantly, yet when the cameras stopped rolling, she didn’t chase the next role. Instead, she walked away by choice, building a life far from the spotlight.
Choosing a Different Path
At home, Erin raised six children, including a son diagnosed with autism. She focused on caregiving, advocacy, and creating a meaningful, present life. Her choices were deliberate, driven by personal conviction rather than public attention.
Early Fame: A Star is Born
Born in Encino, California, on June 17, 1964, Erin entered television at age two. She shared the role of Tabitha Stephens with her fraternal twin during the show’s third season. As they grew, Erin took the role alone, appearing in 103 episodes between 1966 and 1972.
She also made appearances on Lassie (1973) and the film Deadly Fighters (1979), plus worked as a swimwear model. But acting remained her primary public identity during those years.
Stepping Away from Hollywood
When Bewitched ended, offers poured in. Erin turned most down, valuing childhood experiences over career moves. She declined a role on The Waltons to attend Girl Scout camp. Later, her family moved to Orange County, and she limited work to guaranteed jobs, avoiding auditions entirely.
“I walked away from the business before maybe the business kicked me out,” she said. She enjoyed auditioning as a child for the chance to see friends, but once the excitement faded, she saw no reason to stay in Hollywood’s cycle.
Life Beyond the Cameras
Erin didn’t vanish; she simply shifted focus. She took selective roles in indie films and web series, often self-referential, reflecting her early fame. Notable appearances included Karma’s a Bitch (2010, 2012), Youthful Daze (2014), The Comeback Kids (2014–2015), Life Interrupted (2017), and the short film I Might Be Famous (2017). In 2019, she reprised Tabitha Stephens in TV Therapy, revisiting her iconic role with humor and grace.
Motherhood: Her Most Important Role
Off-screen, Erin’s life revolved around her six boys. She nurtured each as an individual, encouraging exploration over control. Her parenting philosophy strengthened when her son Parker was diagnosed with autism. She responded with patience, focus, and action, dedicating herself to supporting him and other children with developmental differences.
Advocacy and Giving Back
Erin expanded her advocacy work, volunteering, attending events, and speaking to parents. She participated in surf therapy programs through Mighty Under Dogs and the Malibu Foundation, combining structure, sensory engagement, and friendship for Parker’s growth.
“I’ve always volunteered,” she said. “If I’m in the public eye, I want to highlight something meaningful.”
Understanding Autism
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), affects social communication, behavior, and daily functioning. Early signs include limited eye contact, repetitive behaviors, and strong preferences for routines. Early intervention—through behavioral, speech, and occupational therapies—helps children thrive at home and school. Erin adapted her routines to Parker’s needs, emphasizing support while continuing to live fully.
Gratitude and Perspective
Reflecting on her child acting career, Erin highlights the opportunities it offered: travel, independence, and connections. She credits those experiences with shaping her perspective, resilience, and optimism. By 2020, she had achieved personal milestones, including a beachfront home and a Tesla, while balancing family life and selective acting projects.
Erin Murphy’s story blends early fame with intentional withdrawal, devotion to family, and advocacy. It’s a journey that reminds us that the most meaningful roles often unfold off-screen.