50 Facts About Barbara Eden

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Barbara Eden's journey to stardom began with humble roots and a passion for the performing arts.

1. Birth and Early Life: Born Barbara Jean Morehead on August 23, 1931, in Tucson, Arizona, she grew up in San Francisco, California. Her early years were filled with music and performance, setting the stage for her future career.

2. Early Career: Eden's professional journey started with singing solos in her church choir. This experience led her to perform with local bands and study at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and the Elizabeth Holloway School of Theatre.

3. Actress Equity: At just 16, she became a member of Actor’s Equity, a prestigious organization representing actors and stage managers in the U.S.

4. Beauty Pageant: Before her Hollywood fame, Eden was crowned Miss San Francisco in 1951 and participated in the Miss America pageant.

5. Johnny Carson Show: In 1955, she made her television debut on Johnny Carson’s half-hour variety show, which significantly boosted her career.

Breakthrough Roles and Iconic Characters

Barbara Eden's talent and charm quickly led to significant roles that defined her career.

6. Breakthrough Roles: By the time I Dream of Jeannie premiered in 1965, Eden had already starred in the TV series How to Marry a Millionaire and guest-starred on over 20 shows, including I Love Lucy and Gunsmoke.

7. Film Career: Eden appeared in over 20 feature films, including Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter? (1957), Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea (1961), and Flaming Star (1960) with Elvis Presley.

8. I Dream of Jeannie: Her most iconic role is Jeannie in the 1960s sitcom I Dream of Jeannie. This character, a 2,000-year-old genie, remains beloved in popular culture.

9. Musical Talents: Eden is also a singer, releasing an album titled Miss Barbara Eden in 1967.

10. Broadway Productions: She starred in Broadway productions like The Sound of Music, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, and Love Letters with Larry Hagman.

Post-Jeannie Career and Philanthropy

Even after I Dream of Jeannie, Eden continued to shine in various roles and charitable efforts.

11. Harper Valley PTA: Eden starred in the comedy film Harper Valley PTA (1978) and its TV series in 1981, playing Stella Johnson.

12. Philanthropy: She actively supports organizations like the American Cancer Society and the USO, using her platform to make a positive impact.

13. Lifetime Achievement Award: Eden received a Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing her remarkable career and contributions to entertainment.

14. Author: She wrote a memoir titled Jeannie Out of the Bottle and a children’s book, Barbara and the Djinn, in 2021.

15. Personal Life: Eden faced personal challenges, including two divorces and the loss of her son, Matthew Ansara, in 2001 due to a heroin overdose.

Maintaining Health and Connection with Fans

Barbara Eden's commitment to health and her fans has kept her vibrant and beloved.

16. Faith and Resilience: She credits her faith in a higher power for her resilience, believing life is a gift to be productive and creative.

17. Workout Routine: Eden maintains her youthful appearance with regular exercise, including a stationary bicycle and lifting five-pound weights.

18. Moderation in Diet: She practices eating in moderation, a habit learned from her parents, contributing to her health and longevity.

19. Fan Connection: Eden values connecting with her fans, appreciating their kindness and support.

20. Halloween Memories: A memorable experience was when young men dressed as Jeannie visited her home for Halloween, which she found fun and unique.

Continued Productivity and Timeless Beauty

Barbara Eden's drive to stay busy and her timeless beauty continue to captivate audiences.

21. Productivity Drive: Eden believes in staying busy and productive, always finding ways to keep engaged and active.

22. Timeless Beauty: Despite her age, Eden continues to captivate audiences with her timeless beauty and talent.

23. Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame: She was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognizing her contributions to entertainment.

24. Guest Appearances: Eden continues to make guest appearances on TV shows, delighting both old and new fans.

25. USO Tours: During the Persian Gulf War, she performed with Bob Hope to entertain troops and embarked on an eight-day USO tour during the holiday season.

Versatility in Roles and Performances

Eden's versatility as an actress shines through her various roles and performances.

26. Las Vegas Performances: She headlined at resorts and casinos in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and Lake Tahoe, showcasing her musical and comedic talents.

27. Musical Comedies: Eden starred in musical comedies like Nite Club Confidential, The Sound of Music, Annie Get Your Gun, and South Pacific with Robert Goulet.

28. Kismet Adaptation: In 1967, she played Lalune in a TV adaptation of Kismet, showcasing her musical talents.

29. Woman of the Year: From April to September 1984, Eden starred in the national production of Woman of the Year, playing Tess Harding Craig.

30. Variety Show Appearances: She was a musical guest star on many variety shows, including 21 Bob Hope specials, The Carol Burnett Show, and The Jonathan Winters Show.

Exploring New Projects and Roles

Eden's willingness to explore new projects and roles has kept her career dynamic.

31. The Barbara Eden Show: After Jeannie, she starred in an unaired pilot titled The Barbara Eden Show.

32. The Toy Game: Another pilot she starred in was The Toy Game, demonstrating her willingness to take on different roles.

33. The Feminist and the Fuzz: Eden’s first TV movie was The Feminist and the Fuzz (1971), marking a transition to more dramatic roles.

34. A Howling in the Woods: In A Howling in the Woods (1971), she starred opposite Larry Hagman, showcasing her dramatic talents.

35. The Stranger Within: In The Stranger Within (1974), Eden played housewife Ann Collins, a woman impregnated by extraterrestrials.

36. Stonestreet: Who Killed the Centerfold Model?: She played a policewoman-turned-private detective in the TV movie Stonestreet: Who Killed the Centerfold Model? (1977).

37. The Secret Life of Kathy McCormick: In 1988, Eden starred in and co-produced the NBC-TV romantic comedy movie The Secret Life of Kathy McCormick.

38. Love Letters: In 1978, Eden starred in the feature film Love Letters, performed at the College of Staten Island and the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York.

39. Dallas Appearances: Eden appeared in five episodes of the final season of Dallas, playing opposite Larry Hagman.

Legacy and Impact on Pop Culture

Barbara Eden's legacy extends beyond her iconic roles, leaving a lasting impact on pop culture.

40. Legacy in Television: Eden’s legacy in television includes numerous guest appearances on popular shows like Dallas, Harper Valley PTA, and Sabrina, the Teenage Witch.

41. Impact on Pop Culture: Her role as Jeannie has had a lasting impact on pop culture, influencing numerous media and cultural references.

42. Chemistry with Co-Stars: Eden has spoken highly of her chemistry with co-stars, particularly Larry Hagman, which added to the success of I Dream of Jeannie.

43. Elvis Presley Collaboration: Her collaboration with Elvis Presley in Flaming Star (1960) was significant, showcasing her ability to work alongside a prominent actor.

44. Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea: In Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea (1961), Eden played Lieutenant (JG) Cathy Connors, demonstrating her versatility.

45. 20th Century Fox Contract: In 1957, Eden was given a contract by 20th Century Fox studios, leading to major film roles.

46. Burke’s Law Appearances: She appeared on various television series, including Burke’s Law, during the early stages of her career.

47. How to Marry a Millionaire: By 1957, Eden was starring in the comedy TV series How to Marry a Millionaire, showcasing her comedic talents.

48. Personal Mantra: Eden’s mother taught her the importance of moderation in all things, guiding her lifestyle choices.

49. Fan Encounters: Eden has had memorable encounters with fans, including young men dressed as Jeannie visiting her home for Halloween.

50. Continued Productivity: Despite her age, Barbara Eden remains productive and engaged in various projects, ensuring she stays an influential figure in entertainment.

Barbara Eden: A Timeless Icon

Barbara Eden's career is a testament to her talent, resilience, and versatility. From her early days in beauty pageants to becoming a household name with I Dream of Jeannie, Eden has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Her roles in films, TV shows, and Broadway productions showcase her wide-ranging abilities. Beyond acting, Eden's dedication to philanthropy and her connection with fans highlight her generous spirit. Despite personal challenges, she remains a symbol of grace and positivity. Her memoir, Jeannie Out of the Bottle, offers a deeper look into her life, both on and off the screen. Even now, Eden continues to inspire with her timeless beauty and unwavering drive. Her legacy in Hollywood is not just about her iconic roles but also her enduring influence on popular culture. Barbara Eden truly embodies the essence of a timeless icon.