Barbara Eden rose to prominence because of the television sitcom “I Dream of Jeannie.” The 91-year-old actress has worked in Hollywood for more than six decades and has no intentions to slow down.
Barbara’s life was not without major emotional and professional problems, despite her extremely successful acting career. Barbara endured a succession of unfortunate occurrences after the conclusion of the famous program, the least of which were two divorces.
Barbara and her first husband, Micheal Ansara, struggled for years without success to have a baby. After seven years of attempting to conceive, they finally received some wonderful news. They found out Barbara was pregnant on the same day “I Dream of Jeannie” was released.
Despite her joy, Barbara expected the show’s producers would wish to replace her. They decided to keep shooting even though she was pregnant, much to her astonishment. As a result, she filmed a significant portion of the episode while pregnant.
Barbara said that childbirth was the most lovely experience she had ever had. Her baby boy, Matthew Ansara, was healthy and robust, and she loved being a mother. However, as Matthew got older, things began to go worse.
To Barbara and Michael’s surprise, Matthew developed a drug misuse problem. They didn’t identify the signs at the time, and Matthew was too young to realize the degree of his addiction.
Barbara recalled Matthew began sleeping more, and his attitude grew erratic. Micheal and she were both taken aback. Matthew did not seek treatment, and his addiction worsened over time.
Matthew died tragically from an overdose in 2001, at the age of 35. Barbara bemoaned the death of her only son, claiming it was the hardest thing she had ever experienced.
Barbara’s previous two marriages did not survive, but she discovered true love with her present spouse of 32 years, Jon Eicholtz. The couple married in 1991 and have been blissfully married ever since.
But it takes work to have a long and happy marriage, and Barbara has put in her fair share of effort. The actress believes in compromise, claiming that she and Jon have only survived this long because they are mindful of one another. They constantly create space for one another.
Even when they disagree, Barbara attempts to see things from his point of view so that they may converse as efficiently as possible. The couple also said that they strive to show interest in things that the other appreciates, even if they would not normally enjoy them.
They like watching sports together, and Jon is enthusiastic about her work. Barbara, on the other hand, believes that couples must sincerely like each other and enjoy spending time together. Barbara also recognized how important it is to prioritize Jon’s demands before her own.
But Jon has always thought about his wife’s needs as well. He was there for her when she lost Micheal and accompanied her on business trips. Barbara thanked him for his help, adding that he doesn’t mind how busy she is.
Barbara is often gone from home due to her hectic schedule. Barbara and Jon don’t see each other for lengthy stretches of time, which is why the actress values her husband’s support so much.
Many people would have anticipated that Barbara would settle down and retire at her age. Her Hollywood house is loaded with mementos from her time on her famous TV program, and her bookshelves are stacked with accolades and books that affected her.
Barbara spends most of her leisure time at home with her husband and Labradoodle, Bentley. When she’s not working, she spends time with her family, and she said that they’ve had a lot of fun with their new puppy.
Fans responded to Barbara’s Instagram image, saying she looked “beautiful.” The 91-year-old’s looks and willingness to continue working wowed many fans. Barbara is still enjoying her days in the profession after a long and remarkable career.