Barbara Eden is a revered figure in the entertainment industry. Her extensive career spans film, television, and stage. The foundation of her career is built on talent and an unwavering determination. Her breakthrough role came as a genie discovered in a bottle by an astronaut in the hit sitcom "I Dream of Jeannie." The role brought her not only widespread recognition but also challenged gender norms, portraying a strong and independent female character at a time when such portrayals were rare.

Beyond the confines of her iconic role, her versatility is evident in various film and television projects, earning her critical acclaim. More than just a performer, she is a symbol of ageless empowerment, inspiring generations of women.

You've been building a remarkable trajectory and a successful career in the entertainment industry. Looking back, what are the most fulfilling moments of your professional life?
It was my performance in Kismet, the TV movie I did in 1967. I hadn’t sung in a long time and I was received positively by the audience. Kismet was a play I had seen in San Francisco as a child. I have always loved the part of Lalumne.

At the age of 92, you continue to inspire many of us. Please share your secrets for good health and vitality.
I always say everything in moderation. I have never smoked and have always had an exercise routine.

As a trailblazer for women in Hollywood, what advice would you offer to up-and-coming actresses striving to make their mark in the industry?
My advice would be to study your craft and know it’s a job like any other profession.

Your fashion sense has always been admired. Could you tell us about your fashion inspiration and how you developed your unique style over the years?
A lot of my fashion sense was because of my contract at 20th Century Fox. It was the first time I ever worked with wardrobe stylists and designers. I learned from them. The designers I admired were Bob Mackie, Jean Louis and, more recently, Giorgio Armani.

How would you classify your personal style? Are there any specific fashion eras or designers that resonate with you?
Simple and chic. Clean Lines. Uplifting colors. One of the designers with whom I resonate is Bob Mackie. He designed my costumes for my Las Vegas residency.

"I Dream of Jeannie" became iconic, and your portrayal of Jeannie left a lasting impact on popular culture. How do you view that era of your career looking back now?
I was happy. I was able to give birth to my son Matthew. It was a productive time for me. I headlined in Las Vegas, appeared in theatre productions and was doing feature films.

Please share any interesting or memorable behind-the-scenes moments from working on "I Dream of Jeannie?"
One day on set, a group of nuns came to see the filming of the “The Flying Nun” TV series, which was shooting on the same lot and in the stage next door to where we were filming Jeannie. Larry Hagman decided to start hopping around waving a fire hatchet screaming expletives. As you can imagine, from that day forward we were never allowed to have guests on set again.

Another remarkable work of yours was Harper Valley P.T.A.," which not only started as a successful movie but was also adapted into a television series, where you reprised your role as Stella Johnson. What challenges and joys did you encounter while developing your character further for television, and how did the show address themes related to single motherhood and raising a teenage daughter?
It was cathartic to play a character who was so free spirited, candid, and had the courage to follow through on her beliefs about parenthood.

Thinking back on your career, is there a specific character you felt particularly connected to, and why?
The character Brenda Andersen from the film “Your Mother Wears Combat Boots” was one I felt connected to. The reason is because I was a mother of a son, who actually had a small part in the movie. I related to everything Brenda Andersen was going through.

The entertainment industry has evolved significantly since your early days. How do you perceive the changes, especially concerning the roles and opportunities for women in Hollywood?
Today, women are not just being cast based on their physical attributes alone, but actually for their talent. It is refreshing and amazing to see women in all facets of a production including writers, producers, directors, publicists, camera operators, the list goes on and it should. But we will still have more work to do. It reminds me of a time when I had a meeting with a casting director at Warner Brothers, I showed up wearing white gloves, a buttoned-up blouse, and pants. He said to me, “You’re a pretty little girl from SF, go home, marry the boy at home. You are not the Hollywood type. We want Big Tits.” He then proceeded to show me a picture of his daughter. It was odd and weird. The casting director didn’t ask where I studied, or anything remotely related to my craft.

In your opinion, what qualities are essential for actors and actresses to navigate the industry's challenges successfully?
Patience, thick skin, a belief in yourself, your talent, hard work, knowing that not every job will be for you, and a sense of humor.

Besides acting, you've also been involved in various philanthropic endeavors. Tell us about any causes that are particularly close to your heart.
Anything pertaining to addiction, sobriety as related to children or young people due to my personal lived experience in that arena. AIDS research (I was the Mistress of Ceremonies for the Life Ball 2013 in Vienna with Elton John) Women’s Heart Health (I walked the runway for the 2015 Red Dress Fashion Show NYFW).

Please tell us more about your experience as an author and the inspiration behind your autobiography and memoir? What motivated you to share your stories?
I have a life full of many lived experiences, both beautiful and blessed coupled with traumatic and heartbreaking. I was approached to explore the idea of a memoir and after much thought decided, with the help of the late Wendy Leigh, to create what is now, my New York Times Bestselling memoir, “Jeannie Out of The Bottle.” I believe that sharing my story can open the door to possibly helping someone else and let them, whoever that may be, know they are not alone.

Reflecting on your life and career, is there a specific achievement or accomplishment that you are exceptionally proud of?
My number one accomplishment was being a mother, first and foremost. Also being able to continue to work and enjoy what I do. To know that a character I may have played has connected and/or resonated with someone or that has crossed generational boundaries is something so beautiful to see.

Please share with us three songs that you love and that you think best describe your life story.
I don’t know if I can share three songs to exactly sum up my life story, but I do love Country Western Music, Operettas like Gilbert & Sullivan and more contemporary artists like Celine Dion and Adele.

Finally, Barbara, tell us about the new campaign you are being featured in.
The new campaign with the folks at WeBuy75.com is about helping seniors discover financial opportunities they may not be aware of. They perform life insurance appraisals for my friends over 75 in hopes of generating cash for them.

Social Media.
Facebook: Barbara Eden | Facebook
Instagram: Barbara Eden (@officialbarbaraeden) • Instagram photos and videos Twitter: Barbara Eden (@Barbara_Eden) / X (twitter.com)

CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director + Photographer: Mike Ruiz + @mikeruiz.one
Producer: Stephen Terrell
Talent: Barbara Eden
Fashion Stylist: Melvin Sanders
Hair: Zak Taylor
Makeup: Kelle Lynn Brown
Photo Assistant: Thomas Lynch
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Júlia Vilaça, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Location: Hype Studios in LA