Barbara Eden, now 91, has had an incredible career that has spanned seven decades and continues to shine. Best known for her iconic role in the 1965 sitcom “I Dream of Jeannie,” Eden actually began her career a decade earlier.
The beloved show, which tells the story of an astronaut who discovers a 2,000-year-old female genie, has entertained generations of TV fans, largely due to Eden’s charming and comedic portrayal of Jeannie.
Early Life and the Path to Stardom
Born in Tucson, Arizona, in 1931, Barbara Eden faced early challenges when her parents divorced, prompting a move to San Francisco. There, she studied singing at the Conservatory of Music and performed with small bands in local nightclubs.
Encouraged by her mother to explore acting, Eden moved to Los Angeles. Her career took off in 1955 with appearances on “The Johnny Carson Show,” but it was her role in “I Dream of Jeannie” that catapulted her to fame. Eden and Larry Hagman, who played Captain Anthony “Tony” Nelson, formed an unforgettable on-screen partnership. “We just… clicked. We had the same beat,” Eden recalled.
The Impact of an Iconic Role
Eden played Jeannie for five years, even taking on additional roles as Jeannie’s mother and mischievous sister. Her harem costume, considered risqué for its time, added to the show’s allure and Eden’s status as a TV sex icon. Reflecting on the network’s concerns, Eden shared, “Executives at NBC got very frightened. They became very strict about the navel.”
This controversy was amplified by her friend, columnist Mike Connolly, who teased her about it, turning it into a legendary topic. Eden’s appeal extended to high-profile admirers, including John F. Kennedy and Elvis Presley. In her 2011 memoir, “Jeannie Out of the Bottle,” she revealed, “I binned the piece of paper, but I wish I still had it.”
Continued Success and Personal Resilience
Barbara Eden’s career includes over 50 films, and she remains active in the industry. In 2019, she played Mrs. Claus in “My Adventures with Santa” and starred in the theatrical production of “Love Letters.” Reflecting on her enduring career, Eden stated, “I feel young! I enjoy my work.
I still work.” Even in her nineties, she maintains a fitness routine with the help of a personal trainer and remains socially active. Eden’s enthusiasm for her craft shows no signs of waning, with appearances and projects lined up well into the future.
Beyond Acting: A Passion for Writing and Inspiring Children
In addition to her acting career, Barbara Eden has ventured into writing, co-authoring children’s books such as “Barbara and the Djinn.” She hopes her books will encourage children to appreciate reading in an era dominated by screen time. Eden dismisses the notion that “I Dream of Jeannie” is outdated, asserting, “Come now, this is a classic theme.
‘One Thousand and One Nights’? This is a lovely, wonderful fantasy.” She proudly highlights Jeannie’s independence, noting, “She wasn’t subservient at all.”
