Barbara Eden is a name that brings a sparkle to the eyes of many. An iconic actress, singer, and entertainer, she has captivated audiences for decades with her charm and talent. Best known for her role as the magical genie in the 1960s TV series “I Dream of Jeannie,” Barbara Eden’s career has been a remarkable journey through the entertainment industry. Now, we will explore her early life, career, and her impressive net worth.
Net Worth: $10 Million
Salary: –
Date of Birth: Aug 23, 1931
Place of Birth: Tucson, Arizona
Gender: Female
Profession: Singer, Actor, Musician
Barbara Eden Early Life
Born Barbara Jean Morehead on August 23, 1931, in Tucson, Arizona, she was destined for greatness from a young age. Eden’s parents, Alice Mary and Hubert Henry Morehead, soon moved the family to San Francisco, California, where she spent most of her formative years.
Growing up in a musical household, Barbara Eden had a natural inclination toward the arts. As a teenager, she studied singing and acting, eventually winning a scholarship to the prestigious San Francisco Conservatory of Music. By the age of 16, Eden was already a professional singer, performing in nightclubs throughout the Bay Area.
Her first big break came in 1951 when she was cast as a semi-regular on “The Johnny Carson Show,” a local TV variety show. This early exposure paved the way for her move to Hollywood, where she would go on to make her mark on both television and film.
Barbara Eden Personal Life
Barbara Eden’s personal life has been marked by love, loss, and resilience. She has been married three times, first to actor Michael Ansara in 1958, with whom she had her only child, a son named Matthew Michael Ansara. The couple divorced in 1974, and in 1977, Eden married Charles Fegert, a Chicago Sun-Times executive. Their marriage ended in divorce in 1982. In 1991, she found lasting love with her third husband, Jon Eicholtz, a real estate developer, and the couple remains happily married to this day.
Tragedy struck in 2001 when her son Matthew, who had struggled with substance abuse, passed away from an accidental drug overdose. Eden has since become an advocate for drug addiction awareness and support, using her platform to help others facing similar challenges.
Barbara Eden Career
Barbara Eden’s career in the entertainment industry has spanned over six decades, showcasing her incredible talent and adaptability. After gaining recognition in the 1950s through her appearances on “The Johnny Carson Show” and small roles in films like “Back from Eternity” (1956) and “The Wayward Girl” (1957), she continued to make a name for herself in Hollywood.
Her big break came in the form of “I Dream of Jeannie,” which ran from 1965 to 1970. The show’s success turned her into a household name and cemented her status as a television icon. During the show’s run, Eden also starred in several films, such as “Flaming Star” (1960) alongside Elvis Presley and “The Wonderful World of the Brothers Grimm” (1962).
Following the conclusion of “I Dream of Jeannie,” Eden continued to work steadily in television and film. She starred in TV movies like “The Stranger Within” (1974) and “Condominium” (1980), as well as making guest appearances on popular TV series like “Love, American Style,” “The Love Boat,” and “Fantasy Island.”
Her career has remained active into the 2000s, with appearances in both television and film projects like “Carolina” (2003) and “Always and Forever” (2009). In addition to acting, Eden has also dabbled in producing, working behind the scenes on projects like the 1990 TV movie “Opposites Attract.”
Barbara Eden Net Worth
Barbara Eden’s illustrious career has amassed her a remarkable net worth, estimated to be around $10 million. This incredible sum is a testament to her longevity in the entertainment industry and her ability to adapt and evolve as an artist.
The 1960s saw Barbara Eden rise to fame with her most iconic role as Jeannie in “I Dream of Jeannie.” The show was an instant hit, and Eden’s portrayal of the mischievous and lovable genie won the hearts of audiences worldwide. The success of the series led to a variety of roles in both film and television, including appearances in “The Andy Griffith Show,” “Perry Mason,” and “The Virginian.”
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Eden continued to charm audiences with her acting prowess. She starred in numerous TV movies and guest appearances, such as “A Howling in the Woods,” “The Woman Hunter,” and “Harper Valley PTA.” These roles not only showcased her acting skills but also demonstrated her ability to portray a wide range of characters.
In addition to her acting career, Barbara Eden has also enjoyed success as a singer. She released an album in 1967 titled “Miss Barbara Eden,” which featured a mix of popular tunes and original compositions. Her musical talents have also been showcased in various TV appearances and live performances, further contributing to her net worth.
Eden’s career has continued to flourish well into the 21st century. In recent years, she has made guest appearances on popular TV shows like “Sabrina, the Teenage Witch,” “Army Wives,” and “Still Standing.” She also penned her memoir, “Jeannie Out of the Bottle,” in 2011, which became a New York Times bestseller.
