Barbara Eden, the iconic star of I Dream of Jeannie, is reflecting on her career and opening up about the legacy she hopes to leave behind.
Now 94, Eden remains best known for her unforgettable role as Jeannie, the mischievous 2,000-year-old genie who fell in love with astronaut Tony Nelson, played by Larry Hagman. The fantasy sitcom ran on NBC from 1965 to 1970 and recently marked its 60th anniversary, a milestone that proves just how timeless the show has become.
Even after all these years, Eden is still surprised by the enduring love for the series. “I think I had nothing to do with it. It was the audience,” she told PEOPLE. “I didn’t realize how popular Jeannie was until years later, and it still amazes me. I even get letters from places like Russia, China, and Germany. If you had told me that when we were filming, I never would have believed it.”
Fans continue to connect with her through Jeannie’s trademark arm-cross and head-nod — the magical gesture that became a pop culture classic. “It’s magic. They always want magic,” Eden said with a smile.
Filming While Expecting
Eden also revealed a little-known detail about the show’s early days: the first season was filmed in black and white because she was pregnant with her late son, Matthew Ansara. “They rushed into production and didn’t want to spend the money on color since they thought I might have to leave,” she explained. Clever costumes and strategic camera work helped disguise her pregnancy on screen.
Despite the challenges, Eden managed both her career and motherhood, crediting her then-husband, actor Michael Ansara, and their families for their support. She has often described becoming a mother as “the most wonderful thing that had ever happened” in her life. Tragically, Matthew passed away in 2001 at the age of 35, but Eden chooses to hold onto memories of his humor and the joy he brought into her life.
Life Today
These days, Eden enjoys a quieter routine with her husband, Jon Eicholtz, and their dog Bentley. She still makes time for fan conventions and appearances, where she is always met with admiration from audiences who grew up watching her.
When asked how she hopes fans will remember her, Eden’s response is simple and heartfelt: “That I made them laugh, made them happy, took them to another place.”
For millions of viewers around the world, Barbara Eden and her role in I Dream of Jeannie continue to do just that — bringing a little bit of magic into everyday life.