Actress Barbara Eden was forced to suddenly drop out of her appearance at the Cinecon Classic Film Festival due to “sudden illness”.
The 95-year-old I Dream of Jeannie star has since addressed the last-minute cancellation and reassured fans that it was just a “miscommunication” and she’s actually fine.
Barbara Eden has revealed the truth about why she pulled out of her Cinecon Classic Film Festival appearance. Photo by David Livingston/Getty Images
“It’s okay everyone! I’m okay!” read a post shared on her Instagram on Sunday US time, Monday morning AEST.
“Oh, my goodness there has been a bit of miscommunication. I’m not suffering from an illness; my doctor very recently prescribed a brand-new medication that turned out to have some nasty side effects. Due to the discomfort, my doctor ordered me to remain at home until it can be sorted out.”
Eden admitted it was just “awful timing” although she does appreciate the outpouring of concern for her health.
“This is just a speedbump! I expect to be out and about as soon as I’m given the go-ahead!” she continued.
“Again, my love and thanks to everyone for all the concern. – Barbara Eden.”
The I Dream of Jeannie star cancelled her appearance at the last minute, with a statement released on social media that revealed that it was due to her health.
Barbara reassured her fans that she’s fine and there was a ‘miscommunication’ about her health. Photo by Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for Project Angel Food’s Lead with Love 7
“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,” event organisers announced in a statement on their page on Facebook.
“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.
Despite the actress being unable to attend, the film festival noted that they would still honour her as planned. Her co-star Pat Boone was going to accept the Cinecon Legacy Award on her behalf after the screening of All Hands On Deck.
Boone had also agreed to stay on and sign autographs for fans after the screening.
“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,” the statement finished.
The post was flooded with well-wishes and messages of support, with fans hoping that the actress will have a speedy recovery.
Eden’s acting career spans over seven decades and despite this recent health scare, Eden recently revealed that she’s got no plans of slowing down anytime soon and is open to any role – on one condition.
“If it’s well written,” she told Entertainment Weekly in August.
“I’d probably do anything. If it’s well written.”
One of Eden’s most beloved roles is I Dream of Jeannie, which wrapped up over 50 years ago. NBC
Her most notable and beloved role playing Jeannie in the hit sitcom I Dream of Jeannie alongside Larry Hagman as Major Anthony Nelson.
The series ran for five seasons from 1965 to 1970, with a total of 139 episodes.
The role is still one that feels like magic to her, even 50 years later.
“The amount of happiness and warmth I feel when I think about ‘Jeannie’ is immeasurable,” she shared on Instagram last September.
“Working with Larry [Hagman], Hayden [Rorke], Billy [Daily], Emmaline [Henry]… it was a such a magical time. I never would have thought, that Jeannie would still be with me, always, right over my shoulder after all these years. Yet, she’s still there! I wouldn’t have it any other way!”