Barbara Eden, the beloved star of “I Dream of Jeannie,” recently opened up about her iconic costume from the show and her cherished friendship with Elvis Presley. Eden, who starred alongside Presley in the 1960 film “Flaming Star,” shared her fond memories of working with the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll and reflected on the impact of her famous TV role.
In “Flaming Star,” Eden played a role that required her to wear practical Western attire, a stark contrast to the harem pants, bolero vest, and midriff-baring crop-top that would later define her character in “I Dream of Jeannie.” Despite the difference in costumes, Eden’s experience on the set of “Flaming Star” was memorable, largely due to her co-star, Elvis Presley.
“He was the most wonderful person to work with,” Eden recalled from her home in Beverly Hills. She described Elvis as a gentleman with impeccable manners. “He had good manners. He was a gentleman. I’d walk onto the set, he’d get me a chair immediately. He was intelligent. I enjoyed talking to him, and we spent a lot of time together between takes.”
Eden, now 90 years old, still speaks with the same vitality that she had when she first appeared as the enchanting genie in 1965. Her memories of Elvis are filled with admiration and respect. “He was a very fine actor and a natural,” she said, emphasizing the ease with which Elvis transitioned into his roles.
The actress is set to make her first appearance at “Elvis Week” on August 15, during a public “Conversations on Elvis” event at the Graceland Soundstage. This visit to Memphis will be one of her first trips since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020. “I’m going to be masked and very careful,” she assured.
During the event, Eden will be joined by pop idol Pat Boone and Priscilla Presley, among others. The session promises to be a highlight for Elvis fans, who will also participate in the annual candlelight vigil at Graceland later that evening. The vigil, which begins at 8:30 PM, marks the emotional climax of Elvis Week, as hundreds of fans pay tribute to the singer at his grave on the anniversary of his death on August 16, 1977.
Reflecting on her time with Elvis, Eden shared that their friendship extended beyond the set. “He was a very kind person,” she said. “We had a lot of fun together. He was always very considerate and made sure everyone around him was comfortable.”
Eden’s portrayal of Jeannie in “I Dream of Jeannie” remains one of the most iconic roles in television history. The show’s costume, designed to be both alluring and whimsical, became a symbol of the 1960s. Eden’s radiant smile and playful demeanor brought the character to life, making Jeannie a beloved figure for generations of viewers.
The actress’s career spans several decades, with numerous roles in film and television. However, it is her role as Jeannie that continues to resonate with fans. “I never expected the show to become such a phenomenon,” Eden admitted. “It’s amazing to see how much people still love Jeannie after all these years.”
Eden’s upcoming appearance at Elvis Week is a testament to the enduring legacy of both her and Elvis Presley. Their work together in “Flaming Star” and their individual contributions to entertainment have left an indelible mark on popular culture.
As Eden prepares to share her memories of Elvis with fans, she remains grateful for the opportunities and experiences that have shaped her career. “I’ve been very fortunate,” she said. “I’ve had the chance to work with some incredible people and create characters that people still remember and love.”
Barbara Eden’s reflections on her iconic “I Dream of Jeannie” costume and her friendship with Elvis Presley offer a glimpse into the life of a Hollywood legend. Her stories remind us of the magic of classic television and the timeless appeal of the stars who brought those stories to life.
Source: ET Online
