Barbara Eden
Date of Birth:
Gender: Female
Place of Birth: Tucson, Arizona, USA
Biography:
Barbara Eden, born Barbara Jean Morehead in Tucson, Arizona, is an esteemed American actress and singer known for her iconic role as Jeannie in the popular sitcom "I Dream of Jeannie." Raised in San Francisco after her parents' divorce, Eden grew up amidst the struggles of the Great Depression. Her mother, Alice Mary, later married Harrison Connor Huffman, and it was through her mother's love for singing that Eden's passion for music and performing blossomed.
As a child, Barbara entertained her family by singing songs with her mother, who would serenade them to alleviate the challenges of their economically tough times. This early musical exposure left an indelible mark on young Barbara, leading her to pursue acting classes in hopes they might enhance her singing abilities. Her journey into the world of entertainment began at a young age; she sang solos in her church choir and performed with local bands for $10 per night at nightclubs starting from the age of 14.
By the time Eden was 16, she had joined Actor's Equity and further honed her craft by studying singing at San Francisco Conservatory of Music and acting with the Elizabeth Holloway School of Theatre. She completed high school at Abraham Lincoln High in San Francisco, graduating in Spring Class of 1949. Eden continued to develop her talent for theater, spending a year at City College of San Francisco before being crowned Miss San Francisco as Barbara Huffman in 1951. Although she did not win the Miss California pageant, her acting journey had just begun, ultimately leading to her unforgettable performance as Jeannie in "I Dream of Jeannie," a role that would forever etch her name into television history.
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