Barbara Eden was adored by her fans and also loved by the television critics! She got two Golden Globe nominations for her role as comedic legend Jeannie on “I Dream of Jeannie.”
It was easy to see that Barbara Eden is drop-dead gorgeous. It was said that the sexual tension she had with the character of Tony was something that really drove the show to success and was the cause of a lot of comedy in the writing. That is probably why when the writer decided to marry Jeannie and Tony, it was really the beginning of the end for the show, which ultimately led to its cancellation.
Almost No Other Women On Set
If you Remember we mentioned that the Producers really did not want to hire a blond for the role of Jeannie; however, Eden got it anyway due to her incredible auditions. The producers and creators really put a high value on her character, and this was seen in the fact that there were not many other female roles cast on the show.
Barbara Eden didn’t have much female competition throughout the show’s five seasons. Emmaline Henry appeared in a recurring role as Amanda Bellows, otherwise, the list of female roles was reserved mostly for bit parts on the show. Given that Eden wasn’t even supposed to have the role because she is a blonde, shows just how much value they put in keeping the focus on her character.
'Jeannie' Referenced In Charmed
Years after the series finale of “I Dream of Jeannie,” it continues to be an extremely popular television show. Another TV series that focused on the supernatural, “Charmed” even had an episode entitled “I Dream of Phoebe” where the character of Phoebe turned into a genie! She wore a similar costume to that of Jeannie’s, but it was blue instead of pink.
Check out this episode of “Charmed” to see the reference for yourself! It can be found during season 6 in episode 15! It is clear that “I Dream of Jeannie” is still relevant to fans and viewers even though so much time has passed!
Historic TV Prop
Barbara Eden, of course, got to keep the famous original bottle that was used as a prop on “I Dream of Jeannie.” It was of course where she lived, so it seemed only fair that she got to keep it! She kept this precious memento in her bank vault for many years.
Jeannie’s bottle was widely known as one of the most popular props in all of television history, so it was no surprise that Barbara ended up donating it. She gave the bottle to the Smithsonian Institution which is in Washington, D.C. It remains there and remains ever so popular!
Behind Closed Doors?
Due to the extremely strict censorship rules on television during this time, Jeannie had to be seen leaving the bedroom any time she entered the bedroom with Tony during the series. Yes, even if she was going to be leaving in smoke!
During the time “I Dream of Jeannie” was airing on television, most television shows would show two twin beds in the bedroom of any couples, even if they were married! It was very common for married couples never to be shown as sharing a bed in those times! Just another scandalous aspect of “I Dream of Jeannie!”