When you think of Barbara Eden, the first thing that comes to mind is her iconic role as a genie in the beloved TV series "I Dream of Jeannie." But beyond the bottle, Barbara has had a fascinating personal life that has been just as enchanting as her on-screen persona. Over the years, she has walked down the aisle three times, each union leaving its mark on her life. Let's take a closer look at the loves and losses that have shaped this Hollywood legend.
In 1958, Barbara Eden tied the knot with actor Michael Ansara, marking the beginning of her first marriage. Their love story unfolded during the golden age of Hollywood, where they both thrived in the entertainment industry. In 1965, the couple welcomed their only child, Matthew Ansara, whom they affectionately referred to as their "lucky-charm baby." Barbara fondly recalls this period in her autobiography, Jeannie Out of the Bottle, where she writes about the immense joy and love they shared for their son. "We had a child at last, and we loved him more than words could say," she wrote. Tragically, their marriage came to an end in 1974, but the love for their son remained unwavering. Unfortunately, Matthew passed away at the age of 35 in 2001 due to a drug overdose, leaving a lasting impact on Barbara and Michael.
After her divorce from Michael, Barbara found love once again in 1977 when she married Charles Fegert. This union, though brief, added another layer to her life story. The couple enjoyed a five-year marriage before parting ways in 1982. While this chapter may not have lasted long, it highlighted Barbara's resilience and ability to embrace life's changes. During this period, she also embraced the single life, showcasing her independence and strength as a woman in Hollywood.
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In 1991, Barbara Eden found her lasting love with realtor and architect Jon Eicholtz. Their marriage has been a testament to the power of love and companionship, enduring for decades. Since saying "I do," Barbara has kept herself busy with a mix of work and leisure, balancing her Hollywood career with a fulfilling personal life. Despite being a staple in the entertainment industry for over seven decades, Barbara shows no signs of slowing down. In a 2019 interview with Closer, she expressed her passion for work, saying, "I will be kicking along until they kick me out. That’s what keeps my energy up. I love to work. If I don’t work, then I get lazy." Beyond her professional pursuits, Barbara cherishes the moments she spends with Jon, often traveling the world to create unforgettable memories together. "My husband and I like to travel. We recently took a trip to Africa — we’ve been all over, to places like China," she said, reflecting on their adventures.
Barbara Eden's journey through love and life is as captivating as any story she has ever told on screen. From her early days as a Hollywood starlet to her enduring legacy as a beloved actress, she has always embraced life with grace and determination. Her marriages, though varied in length and experience, have all contributed to the rich tapestry of her life. Whether she's working on her next project or exploring the world with her husband, Barbara continues to inspire fans around the globe with her charm, talent, and zest for life.
Discover more about Barbara Eden's marriage history by scrolling through the gallery below to meet her ex-husbands and her beloved spouse!