This fall marks a magical milestone as I Dream of Jeannie turns 60 years old. The beloved 1965 sitcom, which first aired on September 18, continues to charm audiences six decades later with its blend of comedy, romance, and whimsy. To celebrate the anniversary, Barbara Eden sat down with BuzzFeed to reflect on her time as the iconic genie Jeannie who captured America’s heart and became a lasting symbol of television’s golden age.
The series, which followed astronaut Tony Nelson (Larry Hagman) and the mischievous genie he discovered, became an instant hit when it debuted. Barbara Eden recalls the experience with deep fondness, sharing that “Jeannie truly captured magic and wasn’t afraid to push the boundaries of network television.” Looking back, she remains grateful for the opportunities the show brought—from working alongside talented co-stars to creating a character that would inspire generations of fans.
Barbara Eden Shares Memories From The Magic Bottle Filming ‘I Dream Of Jeannie’
Even six decades later, Barbara Eden still remembers the small moments that made I Dream of Jeannie so special. From the elaborate sets to the playful energy on set, each episode carried its own magic. She fondly recounted one moment when the crew accidentally left her stuck inside the bottle during a lunch break—a memory she laughs about to this day. “I was hollering, ‘Let me out!’” she said, recalling the laughter that followed once she was freed.
Eden also shared behind-the-scenes details about the show’s famous bottle, the colorful costumes she helped design, and her chemistry with Larry Hagman. “Larry was such a good actor,” she noted. “You never really knew what he was going to do next—he kept you on your toes.”
A Lasting Legacy
As I Dream of Jeannie celebrates its 60th anniversary, she continues to honor the character and the joy it brought to millions. She revealed that she still owns a few of Jeannie’s costumes and even donated one to the Smithsonian, along with her famous bottle. “I was so happy during those years,” she said. “I was doing what I loved.”
Now at 93, the actress embraces the show’s enduring magic and the fans who have kept the beloved genie alive for six decades. “It’s wonderful that people still remember her,” she reflected. “That sparkle, that sense of fun—it’s still there.”
