Barbara Eden, who enchanted audiences for years as the lovable genie in I Dream of Jeannie, turned 92 on August 23, 2023. Despite the many accolades she received throughout her career, Eden’s personal life has been deeply touched by sorrow, most notably the loss of her only son, Matthew Ansara, who died from a heroin overdose in 2001.
Born during the Great Depression, Eden’s early years were filled with hardship, but she turned these challenges into fuel for her future success. After her start in Hollywood with roles in I Love Lucy and Flaming Star alongside Elvis Presley, it was her portrayal of Jeannie in 1965 that made her a household name. That same year, she welcomed her son Matthew with her then-husband, actor Michael Ansara.
Matthew’s struggles with addiction began in his youth and worsened following his parents’ divorce when he was just nine years old. Eden has shared how painful it was to learn about her son’s heroin use and the agonizing decision she faced in sending him to rehab. Though there were moments of hope and recovery, Matthew’s battle continued for years, and just months before his wedding, he tragically passed away at 35.
Now retired, Eden occasionally appears on TV specials but has stepped away from acting for the most part. Her strength through these painful years has inspired many, as she continues to honor the memory of her son while living her own life with grace. Barbara Eden remains a timeless figure in Hollywood, and on her 92nd birthday, we celebrate not only her legacy on screen but also her resilience in the face of deep personal loss. Happy 92nd birthday to a true icon.
