For decades, television fans have speculated about the rumored rivalry between two of the 1960s’ most beloved sitcom stars—Barbara Eden and Elizabeth Montgomery. Eden, who found fame as Jeannie in I Dream of Jeannie, has finally set the record straight once again, putting to rest the stories of an alleged tension with the Bewitched actress. The star, now 94, reflected warmly on her contemporary while recalling their days working side by side on studio lots.
The reports of Barbara Eden’s feud with Elizabeth Montgomery spread throughout the peak of their shows’ popularity. But in truth, Eden insists their relationship was far from combative. Both actresses were at the height of their careers, balancing demanding roles while raising young families. Yet, according to Eden, there was no animosity, only mutual respect and shared experiences.
Barbara Eden’s Feud With Elizabeth Montgomery Was A Myth
According to Hello Magazine, while speaking with Fox News Digital, Eden dismissed the long-standing narrative of conflict. She explained that though they rarely had time to socialize off-set, their interactions were always pleasant. “I enjoyed being with her,” Eden said, recalling mornings spent in the makeup chair before filming. Far from rivals, she emphasized that Elizabeth Montgomery carried herself with grace and professionalism.
Eden has addressed these rumors before, pointing back to producers and industry gossip as the source of the so-called feud. In a 2013 anniversary special for Bewitched, she explained how the two women even bonded during their pregnancies, chatting about motherhood while filming their iconic roles. She reiterated that the idea of competition was never between them but rather a fabrication born of Hollywood storytelling.
Remembering Elizabeth Montgomery’s Legacy
The enduring myth of Barbara Eden’s feud with Elizabeth Montgomery has often overshadowed their actual camaraderie. Fellow actress Sally Field once shared lighthearted memories of mornings on the lot, where Eden would sing enthusiastically, and Montgomery jokingly remarked on her chatter. These anecdotes, while playful, only underscored their genuine connection rather than rivalry.
Sadly, Elizabeth Montgomery passed away in 1995 at the age of 62, following a brief battle with colon cancer. Eden, who continues to stay active and advocate for important causes, remembers her contemporary not as a rival but as a peer who helped shape the golden age of television. For fans, both actresses left behind a legacy of laughter, charm, and timeless magic that still resonates today.