It’s been 55 years since the beloved sitcom I Dream of Jeannie first graced our screens, but Barbara Eden still finds herself connected to the iconic role—and she couldn’t be happier about it. “I was changing planes in Rome recently, and I looked up to see the show playing on a screen,” she shares with a laugh. “Good grief, right? But honestly, it’s such a nice feeling. It’s great to know that people still love it.”
A Fond Remembrance of Larry Hagman
Barbara recalls her time working alongside Larry Hagman, the show’s leading man, with warmth despite the challenges he faced during their years together. “Larry battled substance abuse issues back then, but beneath all that, he was a truly loving man,” she explains. “He had this crazy energy, but at the heart of it, he was a good person. We had some amazing moments together, both on-screen and off.”
Enduring Friendship and Continued Success
Even after Jeannie went off the air, Barbara and Larry’s friendship endured. They even reunited for a stage production of Love Letters, which allowed them to share the spotlight once more. At 88 years old, Barbara continues to thrive in her career, recently performing alongside Barry Bostwick in Scranton, Pennsylvania. “Barry is absolutely wonderful,” she gushes. “Walking onto that stage with him is pure joy. He brings so much life and energy to every performance.”
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Why Retirement Isn't an Option
For Barbara, retirement isn’t even on the table. “I feel so incredibly fortunate,” she says. “There are so many people out there who dread going to work every day, but I genuinely love what I do. Why would I ever want to stop?” In fact, the only thing that might convince her to call it quits is if someone forces her hand. But until then, she’s fully committed to keeping her career alive and well.
Family Comes First
Despite her busy schedule, Barbara always prioritizes her loved ones, including her husband of 32 years, Jon Eicholtz. When asked about the secret to their enduring happiness, she offers some sage advice. “You’ve got to walk in the other person’s shoes if you’re having a disagreement,” she advises. “It’s not always easy, but trying to see things from their perspective can make all the difference.”
Lessons Learned Over the Years
Barbara has learned countless lessons throughout her storied career, one of which emphasizes staying true to yourself. “Don’t try to be someone you’re not,” she insists. “We’re all unique, and that’s what makes us special. Early in my career, I thought I needed to be taller or prettier than I am, but that’s ridiculous. You’ll never get anywhere by comparing yourself to others. Embrace who you are and let your authenticity shine.”
So what does Barbara do when she’s not working? She spends quality time with the people who bring her the most joy—her husband, her sister, and anyone else who makes her heart happy. And of course, she’s always on the lookout for her next big role. “I’m waiting for the perfect part to come along,” she says excitedly. “Something that will challenge me and keep me growing as an artist.”
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Reporting by Diana Cooper
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