The Timeless Friendship Of Barbara Eden And Larry Hagman: A Look Back

Barbara Eden and Larry Hagman’s journey began with their iconic roles in the beloved television series "I Dream of Jeannie." Their chemistry on-screen was undeniable, but their friendship off-screen was even more profound. The show, which aired from 1965 to 1970, not only catapulted them to stardom but also cemented a bond that would last a lifetime. Barbara, portraying a gorgeous 2,000-year-old genie, and Larry, as her charming astronaut rescuer Tony Nelson, captivated audiences and created an everlasting legacy.

The serendipitous encounter during their screen test marked the beginning of a transformative chapter in both their lives. Barbara recalls how she spontaneously threw her arms around Larry during their first scene together, which left him a bit startled. Nonetheless, their honesty and openness with each other laid the foundation for a remarkable partnership that would resonate with fans for decades.

Beyond their on-screen antics, it was their deep friendship that truly defined their relationship. Barbara described Larry as a talented and sweet individual who was often his own worst enemy. Their experiences together on the set of "I Dream of Jeannie" fostered a unique camaraderie that only grew stronger over the years.

Magic Carpet Ride: The Dynamic Duo

The chemistry between Barbara and Larry was palpable; viewers frequently speculated about a potential off-screen romance. However, Barbara has always maintained that her heart belonged to her first husband, Michael Ansara, during the show's original run. She humorously remembers being pregnant with her son Matthew while filming, stating, “I was a walking tent, but they just kept putting chiffon over my head.”

When the cameras stopped rolling, Larry’s perfectionism often led to lengthy rehearsals and script changes, which sometimes frustrated the writing team. He once explained, “Sometimes comedy is not funny when you’re trying to work things out,” highlighting the challenges he faced in his pursuit of excellence. Yet, his eccentric side often shone through, with Barbara recalling instances of him arriving on set dressed as a train engineer or even a gorilla! Larry’s playful nature made each day on set an adventure.

Despite his humorous antics, Larry also battled personal insecurities, especially when Barbara's star began to rise. Fellow cast member Bill Daily noted that Larry sometimes withdrew to his trailer, troubled by the attention Barbara received. Yet, through it all, their friendship remained steadfast, proving that true bonds can withstand the pressures of fame.

The Journey of Resilience

As "I Dream of Jeannie" progressed into its second season, Larry faced significant personal challenges. He struggled with addiction to tobacco and amphetamines, which he had used to manage his weight. After quitting both substances, he experienced intense mood swings that affected him both emotionally and physically. In one memorable incident, he attempted to silence a noisy air conditioner on set with a fireman's ax, inadvertently cutting off power to the entire soundstage!

At one point, the network even considered replacing Larry with another actor, but Barbara defended him, stating, “I think it would be foolish to switch him in the middle of the show.” Her advocacy and unwavering support during these trying times underscored the depth of their friendship. After agreeing to attend therapy, Larry expressed profound gratitude to Barbara for helping him during his darkest moments.

However, as the series approached its fifth season, new tensions arose when the network insisted that Jeannie and Tony tie the knot. Larry feared that this would signal the end of the show, leading him to withdraw from his colleagues. Barbara later recounted in her memoir that he had become so despondent that he stopped speaking to anyone, including her.

Reunion and Lasting Affection

Despite the ups and downs, Barbara's affection for Larry remained intact. In 1990, she reunited with him for a guest appearance on "Dallas," where Larry had become a superstar as J.R. Ewing. Barbara fondly recalled their first day back together, noting how it felt like they had never parted ways. Larry’s spirit seemed undiminished, and the bond they had formed years prior felt as strong as ever.

Throughout his life, Larry confronted numerous challenges, including battling cancer until his passing in 2012 at the age of 81. Barbara reflected on their final encounter in Australia, where he appeared vibrant and healthy, making his eventual death a shocking loss for her. She cherished their friendship and often remarked that they were meant to be together, highlighting the kindness and talent he exuded when he was well.

Both Barbara and Larry’s story is one of resilience, friendship, and undeniable talent. Their legacy continues to inspire and entertain new generations, proving that true connections can withstand the test of time.