The 91-year-old has impressed many followers with her appearance and her tenacity to keep focusing on her work.
When Barbara Eden was asked by The Hollywood Reporter last year, how she felt about turning 90, she said, "I really don’t think about it. Everybody else does but I never have. I’m looking forward to going back to work." Launched to fame with her famous show, I Dream of Jeannie, Barbara has been unstoppable since then. She has had a successful career in Hollywood that has spanned over six decades. However, her life has not been without challenges.
After the show ended, she had to face a series of tragic events, including two divorces. She and her husband, Michael Ansara gave birth to a baby boy, Matthew Ansara. He was healthy and strong. However, as Matthew grew older, the family's life took a dark turn.
He became addicted to drugs. Barbara remembered that Matthew started sleeping much more, and his temper could not be predicted. She and Michael were shocked. Matthew didn't seek help, and the addiction became worse over time.
In 2001, Matthew died from an overdose at the age of 35. Barbara mourned the loss of her only son, saying losing her child was the worst thing she had ever endured. She said, as per PEOPLE, "Even though he was 35, he was still my baby."
After her first two marriages failed, Barbara found the love of her life in her 50s, with her current husband of 32 years, Jon Eicholtz. The pair said their vows in 1991 and have been happily married since then. Barbara remarked to Closer Weekly, "I'm really lucky to have a happy marriage."
As per the actress, the marriage has lasted this long because both of them are willing to make compromises for the other. They are also considerate of the other person. They always make room for each other.
Even during an argument, Barbara tries to see things from his perspective to ensure they communicate as effectively as possible. The pair also said they try to show interest in things the other is fond of, even if they wouldn't usually like it.
They watch sports together, and Jon is highly supportive of her career. Barbara said it's important that partners truly like each other and enjoy each other's company. Barbara also realized it's crucial to sometimes put Jon's needs above hers.
Jon is equally considerate of her needs, as she told Closer Weekly, "He puts up with me working. [He] doesn't actually mind [my schedule]. I find that it's just great because he likes what I do. He likes me doing it."
When she is not working, she spends time with her husband and their Labradoodle, Bentley. Recently, fans commented on one of Barbara's Instagram posts, saying she looked "amazing." The 91-year-old has impressed many followers with her appearance and her tenacity to keep focusing on her work.
After a long and memorable career, Barbara is still enjoying her days in the industry.
References:
https://people.com/tv/barbara-eden-opens-up-about-son-death-by-overdose-20-years-ago/
https://www.closerweekly.com/posts/barbara-eden-talks-happy-marriage-with-husband-jon-eicholtz/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CoJg38lg7PN/
Cover Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by Stephen Shugerman
