“Flaming Star”’s Barbara Eden Says People Didn’t ‘Appreciate’ Costar Elvis Presley’s Acting Abilities (Exclusive)

Barbara Eden Shares Insights on Elvis Presley’s Acting Technique

Barbara Eden, the iconic star known for her role in ‘I Dream of Jeannie,’ recently opened up about her experience working alongside the legendary Elvis Presley. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 94-year-old actress reminisced about collaborating with the King of Rock and Roll on the 1960 Western film ‘Flaming Star.’

Expressing admiration for Presley’s acting prowess, Eden praised his performance in the film, stating, “I remember how good he was. He was a fine actor. This was a part that required good acting, and he did it, boy.” Despite her positive appraisal of Presley’s skills, she acknowledged that the movie initially faced challenges, with fans feeling disappointed that Presley did not have a singing role in the production.

To address this issue, a new scene featuring Presley playing the guitar and Eden dancing around a table was added to the film. Reflecting on the audience’s response, Eden remarked, “I just think people didn’t recognize or appreciate what a fine actor he was, and a lovely, lovely man.” She also shared anecdotes about Presley inviting his loved ones to the set, where they would play guitars and sing between takes, showcasing his passion for music outside his acting career.

‘Flaming Star’, based on Clair Huffaker’s 1958 book ‘Flaming Lance’, follows Presley’s character, Pacer Burton, as he navigates his complex identity as the son of a White rancher and a Kiowa wife. Eden portrays Roslyn Pierce, the girlfriend of Pacer’s brother, in the poignant Western drama that delves into themes of heritage and belonging.

While Presley is best known for his musical legacy, with hits like ‘Love Me Tender’ and ‘Burning Love’, his foray into acting was also significant. Making his feature film debut in 1956, he went on to star in over 30 movies, showcasing his versatility on the big screen. Despite his untimely death at age 42 in 1977, Presley’s impact on both the music and film industries remains enduring.

Eden, on the other hand, continued to captivate audiences with her on-screen presence, starring in numerous films throughout the 1960s and headlining the beloved sitcom ‘I Dream of Jeannie’ for five seasons. Her reflections on working with Presley shed light on a lesser-known aspect of the iconic musician’s career, highlighting his dedication to honing his craft as an actor.

In a world where celebrities often face scrutiny for their multiple talents, Eden’s tribute to Presley’s acting abilities serves as a poignant reminder of the multifaceted nature of artistic expression. As fans revisit ‘Flaming Star’ and Presley’s cinematic contributions, they are invited to appreciate the nuances of his performances beyond his musical repertoire, thanks to Eden’s illuminating insights.