**Barbara Eden Reflects on Early Career and Encounter with Lucille Ball**
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At the impressive age of 94, actress Barbara Eden has shared fond memories from her early career, specifically her guest appearance on the iconic sitcom, *I Love Lucy*. This notable episode aired in 1957, eight years before Eden rose to fame in her defining role on *I Dream of Jeannie*.
Eden’s guest spot in *I Love Lucy* featured her as Diana Jordan, a character who unexpectedly steals the attention at a country club dance. In the episode, Lucy Ricardo, portrayed by Lucille Ball, and her husband Ricky are invited by friends to a night they anticipate will be dull. However, their plans take a delightful turn when the elegant Diana joins them, leaving the men mesmerised by her beauty.
In a recent conversation with *Entertainment Weekly*, Eden expressed her admiration for Lucille Ball, recalling the warmth and professionalism she displayed during filming. “Oh my goodness, [Ball] was wonderful. She was wonderful to me,” Eden remarked when reflecting on her experience. She highlighted how Ball personally ensured that her costume was perfectly tailored for the role, even adding a touch of allure to it.
Eden also recalled the complexities of working in an environment that featured Ball’s then-husband, Desi Arnaz, who is known to have caused tensions on set. “I understand she had trouble, I know, with people because of him,” Eden mentioned, emphasizing her effort to maintain a respectful distance. This approach seemed to resonate with Ball, who appreciated Eden’s professionalism and even considered signing her to a contract.
A significant revelation during Eden’s interview was her recollection of Ball’s dedication to supporting female comedians. Ball had been developing a class aimed at nurturing female comedic talent and held Eden’s abilities in high regard. Unfortunately for Eden, her trajectory would soon take a different path as she was contracted by Fox shortly thereafter.
The actress’s reflections on her appearance in *I Love Lucy* continued in a Christmas Con panel last year, where she revisited the anxiety she faced while auditioning for the role. “She was absolutely a wonderful, beautiful person to work with. I’d had a little difficulty with the second [job], who was a diva I worked with and she didn’t like me, so I was really worried,” Eden shared. Her experience with Ball was a refreshing contrast, highlighting the support and kindness she received from the comedy legend.
Recently, during a red carpet event for Project Angel Food in Hollywood, Eden also discussed her big break in *I Dream of Jeannie*. Her transition into this role came with its own insecurities, particularly in relation to her appearance. Despite being aware of the competition, which included numerous tall brunette contestants, Eden initially doubted her suitability for the part. “I thought, ‘Oh, it’s not for me,’” she recounted, reflecting on the initial reservations she held.
However, the tables turned when her agent presented her with the script for *I Dream of Jeannie* and noted that the producers had already offered her the role after seeing her audition. Eden recalled her incredulity asking, “Do they know what I look like?” This playful question illustrated her surprise at landing a character that would eventually cement her place in television history.
Barbara Eden’s journey, from her early role alongside Lucille Ball to her iconic portrayal in *I Dream of Jeannie*, showcases not only her talent but also the support of pioneering women in comedy. As she reflects on her storied career, it is clear that both her talent and the kindness of mentors like Ball contributed to her enduring legacy in the entertainment industry.