Barbara Eden had to step away from a special celebration this weekend after an unexpected health issue kept her from attending. Barbara, 95, had been scheduled to appear at the Cinecon Classic Film Festival in Los Angeles on Saturday, September 5, where the “I Dream of Jeannie” legend was set to receive the Cinecon Legacy Award.
Just hours before the event, however, organizers announced that she could no longer attend because of a “sudden illness.””We’re sorry to share that, due to a sudden illness, Barbara Eden will no longer be able to appear in person at Cinecon tonight,” organizers said in a Facebook statement.
What Happened to Barbara Eden?
Event organizers did not provide additional details about Barbara’s condition, but made clear that the actress had been looking forward to the celebration. “Barbara is deeply regretful that she had to cancel at the last minute, as she had been very much looking forward to seeing everyone and celebrating with us,” the statement continued.
“We know how many of you were excited to welcome Barbara. We appreciate your understanding and join you in sending her our best wishes for a speedy recovery,” organizers added.
The cancellation came less than two weeks after Barbara celebrated her 95th birthday on Sunday, August 23.
Was Barbara Eden Still Honored at Cinecon?
GettyAlthough Barbara could not attend in person, the festival still celebrated her decades-long career.
People reported on Sunday, September 6, that Pat Boone, who starred opposite Barbara in the 1961 film “All Hands on Deck” and 1963’s “The Yellow Canary,” honored her as planned. Pat, 92, also stayed to sign autographs after a screening of “All Hands on Deck.”
Other Cinecon honorees included Nancy Kwan, Anna Maria Alberghetti and Lainie Kazan. Anna Maria, 90, also couldn’t attend the event in person.
Barbara remains best known for playing Jeannie in the beloved sitcom “I Dream of Jeannie,” which aired from 1965 to 1970. Her long résumé also includes “Harper Valley P.T.A.,” “How to Marry a Millionaire,” “Flaming Star,” “Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea,” and “The Brass Bottle.”
What Has Barbara Eden Said About Acting at 95?
Despite reaching a major birthday, Barbara has shown little interest in closing the door on acting. In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, she said the right script could still bring her back in front of the camera. “If it’s well written, I’d probably do anything. If it’s well written,” she told the outlet. Asked what kind of part might appeal to her, Barbara even floated the possibility of playing against type. “I could be really mean,” she joked.
How Did Barbara Eden Recently Celebrate Her Personal Life?
Barbara has also continued sharing cheerful glimpses of life away from Hollywood.
Earlier this year, she posted an Easter photo with her husband, Jon Eicholtz, wearing bunny ears.
“Happy Easter from us bunnies! We hope it’s been beautiful and full of joy! -B & J #happyeaster#easter#easterbunny#barbaraeden,” she captioned the post.
For longtime fans, Barbara’s unexpected Cinecon absence was disappointing, but the festival’s message kept the focus firmly on her recovery and the career it had planned to celebrate.
