There’s something truly magical about the kind of chemistry that lingers for decades. When you think of the iconic TV duo Jonathan and Jennifer Hart from the beloved series "Hart to Hart," one thing is undeniable: the connection between Robert Wagner and Stefanie Powers was unforgettable. This pair, who portrayed a sexy, globe-trotting amateur sleuth couple in the hit series that aired from 1979 to 1984, still radiate that same spark—even 40 years later. “We adore each other,” Stefanie, now 76, reveals in an exclusive interview with Closer Weekly. “Even though Robert and I live on opposite sides of the world, we find time to catch up. He’ll drop by for dinner occasionally, and we talk regularly. And let me tell you, we keep each other laughing with dirty jokes!”
A Bond That Goes Beyond the Screen
On "Hart to Hart," Robert Wagner and Stefanie Powers were the picture of a happy, adventurous married couple. Their on-screen chemistry was so believable that fans often wondered if their TV romance spilled over into real life. But according to Robert, now 89, it was all for the cameras. “No, I was married to Natalie Wood, and Stefanie was with Bill Holden. What you saw was strictly for the roles we played,” he explains to Closer. “The reason we had such a great relationship was that we’d already worked together on It Takes a Thief in 1970. We always had such a good time collaborating, and that carried over into ‘Hart to Hart.’”
Behind the Scenes: The Hart Family Legacy
The world of "Hart to Hart" wasn’t just about Robert and Stefanie—it was a full ensemble cast, including the loyal pooch Freeway and the unforgettable butler-chef-chauffeur Max, played by the late Lionel Stander. For those involved, the show wasn’t just a job; it was a family. “RJ, which is Robert’s nickname, looked at my dad as a father figure,” shares Lionel’s daughter Jennifer Stander. “Through every major moment in my life, RJ was there, offering support and friendship. It was more than just a TV show—it was a second family.”
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The Casting Drama: Who Almost Played Jennifer Hart?
As you might imagine, bringing together such a dynamic duo wasn’t without its challenges. TV executives initially considered several other actresses for the role of Jennifer Hart, including Lindsay Wagner, Suzanne Pleshette, Kate Jackson, and even Robert’s then-wife, Natalie Wood. “We did approach Natalie,” recalls executive producer Leonard Goldberg, “but there was a feeling that audiences didn’t want to see a real-life husband and wife portraying a married couple on screen.” As for Robert’s role, the studio had their sights set on Cary Grant—but he declined the offer. Thankfully, fate brought Robert Wagner and Stefanie Powers together, creating the unforgettable partnership we all know and love.
Laughing Through the Adventures
When Robert joined the project, he was determined to ensure Stefanie Powers got the role of Jennifer Hart. “At first, they didn’t think she had the comedic timing to pull it off,” he shares. “But after exhausting other possibilities, they realized she was perfect.” Together, they brought humor and charm to every episode, tackling crimes while dressed in everything from elegant evening gowns to quirky disguises. “I played a fortune teller and many other characters on the show,” Stefanie laughs. “It was all about having fun.” Even off-screen, the camaraderie continued. “RJ, Stefanie, and Lionel were pranksters, always trying to outdo each other,” recalls Lionel’s widow, Stephana Stander Kamer. “One time, Stefanie had a giant photo of RJ from his movie Prince Valiant made. RJ opened a door on set and came face-to-face with himself!”
The Secret to Their Lasting Appeal
So, what’s the secret behind the enduring popularity of "Hart to Hart," now airing on Cozi TV? According to Robert, it’s all about the characters. “This couple truly admired and supported each other,” he says. “The characters were deeply in love, and you never saw them fighting or having domestic squabbles. It was about respect and partnership.” Could we see another reunion from this iconic duo? Stefanie playfully teases, “It’s one of those maybe/who knows things. Never say never
