I Dream of Jeannie Star Barbara Eden: Life-Changing Decision at 15!
At just 15, Barbara Eden made a decision that would change her life. She ditched traditional schooling and entered the world of show business. With her beautiful voice, she made her mark in the entertainment industry and quickly built a career that continues to shine 80 years later.
“I was never a typical high school girl. I didn’t have a best friend; I didn’t go to dances; I didn’t stay in one place. I didn’t even date until I was 16,” Eden told TV Guide in 1966. “I was always trying to improve myself—doing makeup, styling, and improving myself. But the most important thing I learned was to always keep moving forward. Don’t waste today on tomorrow!”
This thinking and hard work of hers made her the famous star of I Dream of Jeannie, and even today she is maintaining her shine.
I Dream of Jeannie: Barbara Eden’s magical journey and memories of the first script
Barbara Eden never looked back! With her talent and hard work, she soon started shining in Hollywood. From her performance in The Johnny Carson Show to the TV adaptation of How to Marry a Millionaire in 1957, she played many memorable roles in her career. In 1960, she also appeared in Flaming Star with Elvis Presley, but she got real recognition in 1965, when she played the bubbly and charming role of Jeannie in I Dream of Jeannie.
Now, even at the age of 93, Barbara Eden’s glow and humility remain intact. As I Dream of Jeannie celebrates its 60th anniversary, she talks about some memorable highlights of the show and the first meeting with her famous co-star Larry Hagman.
I Dream of Jeannie: When Barbara first got the script
I Dream of Jeannie is one of those rare classic TV series that still captivates viewers decades later. What was Barbara Eden’s reaction when she first received the script for the show? She said, “I thought the concept was so interesting! A beautiful genie who turns the world upside down with her innocence and magical powers—it was a unique and exciting idea!”
The show’s success and Barbara Eden’s brilliant performance made I Dream of Jeannie one of the most beloved and memorable series in television history.
I Dream of Jeannie: Barbara Eden’s shocking first reaction!
When the script of I Dream of Jeannie first came into Barbara Eden’s hands, her first reaction was surprise and doubt! She had read about it in Variety magazine and thought that the makers were only casting tall, glamorous, and dark-haired women. Barbara was sure that this role would not be for her.
“I put it aside and thought, ‘This is not for me.'”
But fate had something else in store!
I Dream of Jeannie: When Barbara got the offer, she could not believe it!
However, when the script came and she read it carefully, her perspective changed completely. The script attracted her immediately! Then her agent called and asked, “How do you like the script?” Barbara’s excited reply was, “It’s wonderful, magical!” Then her agent told her another surprising thing: “Then it will be great to know that they have made you an offer!” Barbara was stunned to hear this! ### **I Dream of Jeannie: When Barbara Eden’s luck changed and she signed the show! Barbara had only one thing to do—meet the show’s producer, Sidney Sheldon. She had to discuss with him over an informal tea. But it was not just a meeting, but a moment that changed television history! As soon as they met, they got along very well in their first conversation. Barbara not only loved the script, but *the character of Jenny became very close to her heart*
“I immediately felt that this role was made for me—a unique blend of innocence, playfulness, and magic!”
And it was this moment that helped Barbara Eden land one of the most iconic roles in television history—a role that made her immortal!
I Dream of Jeannie: When Barbara Eden First Met Larry Hagman—A Magical Bond Was Born!
When Barbara Eden first met Larry Hagman, she had no idea that this was going to be a memorable moment in TV history.
“I didn’t know much about him.” But producer Sidney Sheldon was eager to meet Barbara and said, “You should meet Larry and talk.” However, Barbara was shooting a film at Universal Studios at that time, so she refused. But Sidney replied, “Never mind, he will come to you and wait!”
During the shoot, Larry came to Barbara’s dressing room. The two read the script, and then suddenly there was a scene where Jeannie had to jump and catch her master. Barbara did it without hesitation, but later it was revealed that “I scared Larry!” However, Larry was amazing at hiding it.
The chemistry between them was magical from the very first meeting. Barbara says, “We understood each other instantly, trusted each other, and just did it!” Perhaps that’s why ‘I Dream of Jeannie’ continues to win the hearts of viewers on TV even today!
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