If you’ve ever wondered about Barbara Eden's spouse, you're not alone. Fans of the iconic actress, best known for her role as Jeannie in the classic TV show I Dream of Jeannie, have long been curious about her personal life—especially her relationships. While Barbara Eden’s career has been in the spotlight for decades, her romantic history is a bit more private, though no less fascinating. From early marriages to long-term partnerships, Barbara’s love life offers a glimpse into the woman behind the magic. In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Barbara Eden’s spouse and how her relationships have shaped her journey both in and out of Hollywood.

Barbara Eden, whose name has Greek roots meaning “foreign woman,” has always carried a kind of enchantment both on and off screen. Known for her charm, beauty, and quick wit, she’s captivated audiences since the 1960s. But behind the camera, her life has had its share of ups and downs, especially when it comes to love. From heartbreak to enduring love, her story with her spouse—or rather, spouses—offers a compelling narrative that many can relate to, especially those who’ve faced similar emotional terrain.

As we dive into this journey, you’ll discover how Barbara Eden’s personal life unfolded alongside her professional success. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering her work, learning about her relationships adds another layer to her already rich legacy. Let’s take a closer look at her life, her marriages, and the man she eventually chose to spend a lifetime with.

• Bianca Rodrigues

Table of Contents

• Biography of Barbara Eden
• Early Life and Background
• Career Highlights
• Barbara Eden’s Marriages
• First Marriage: Michael Ansara
• Second Marriage: Jon E. Anderson
• Life After Love
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography of Barbara Eden

Early Life and Background

Barbara Eden was born Barbara Lynn Eden on August 23, 1931, in Phoenix, Arizona. Her name, of Greek origin, means “foreign woman,” and in some interpretations, “stranger” or “beautiful.” Her early years were marked by a love for the performing arts. She moved around a bit as a child but eventually landed in San Francisco, where she started dancing and singing. Her talent was clear from an early age, but her journey to stardom had many twists and turns.

She later moved to Hollywood to chase her dreams. While the road wasn’t always easy, she eventually caught the eye of producers and directors. Her beauty and charm made her a natural fit for television and film, and by the early 1960s, she was on the cusp of stardom. But before she became the magical genie in a bottle, she was navigating the ups and downs of life, including her first major relationship.

Career Highlights

Barbara Eden’s big break came when she was cast in the 1965 sitcom I Dream of Jeannie. The show became a hit, and Eden became a household name. She played Jeannie, a 2,000-year-old genie who falls in love with an astronaut played by Larry Hagman. The chemistry between the two stars was undeniable, and the show ran for five seasons. It made Eden a TV icon and cemented her place in entertainment history.

• Isabel Beatty

After the show ended, she continued to work steadily in television and stage productions. She starred in TV movies, stage plays, and even made guest appearances on popular shows. Her voice work and live performances kept her in the public eye. But while her career was thriving, her personal life was going through its own ups and downs, particularly when it came to love and relationships.

Barbara Eden’s Marriages

Barbara Eden has been married twice in her life. Both of her marriages were to men she met in the entertainment industry, and both came with their own set of challenges and joys. Her first husband was actor Michael Ansara, and her second was businessman Jon E. Anderson. Each relationship shaped her life in different ways, and both are worth exploring in detail.

First Marriage: Michael Ansara

Barbara Eden married Michael Ansara in 1958. He was an actor best known for his role as Cochise in the TV series Broken Arrow, and later for playing Mr. Freeze in the 1960s Batman series. The two met in Hollywood and quickly became a power couple of the time. Their son, Matthew, was born in 1965, the same year I Dream of Jeannie premiered.

Though their marriage lasted until 1974, it wasn’t without its difficulties. Eden has spoken about the pressures of fame, the demands of Hollywood, and how their careers sometimes pulled them in different directions. The couple eventually divorced, but they remained on good terms for the sake of their son. Tragically, Matthew passed away in 1981 at the age of 24 from a seizure caused by a brain tumor.

Michael Ansara passed away in 2013, and in interviews, Barbara has reflected on their time together with a mix of nostalgia and sadness. Their love story was one of passion and challenge, and it played a significant role in shaping who she is today.

Second Marriage: Jon E. Anderson

After her divorce from Michael Ansara, Barbara Eden remained single for several years. She focused on her career and raising her son, but after Matthew’s passing in 1981, she found herself seeking companionship and stability. She met Jon E. Anderson, a businessman and former executive at Twentieth Century Fox, and the two married in 1981.

Jon was described by Eden as a calming presence in her life. He was supportive of her career and helped her through the grief of losing her son. Their marriage lasted for about two decades, and during that time, Barbara continued to work in television and theater. However, the marriage eventually ended in divorce in 2001, though Eden has spoken about Jon with warmth and appreciation for the support he gave her during a tough time in her life.

Jon E. Anderson passed away in 2015, and Barbara has shared how much she missed him in interviews. She’s described him as one of the most kind-hearted people she ever knew and someone who brought a lot of peace into her life after years of chaos and heartbreak.

Life After Love

Since her second divorce, Barbara Eden has remained single. She has said in interviews that she enjoys her independence and the freedom that comes with age. She’s focused on her health, her fans, and her legacy in the entertainment world. She’s also become a beloved figure in the nostalgia circuit, attending fan conventions, doing interviews, and making appearances that keep her name alive in pop culture.

Barbara Eden’s life is a testament to resilience. Through love and loss, marriage and divorce, she’s maintained her grace and humor. She’s faced the ups and downs of life with dignity and strength, and that’s one reason why fans continue to admire her. Her relationships, particularly with her two spouses, are an integral part of her story, and understanding them gives us a fuller picture of the woman behind the famous blue bikini and magical bottle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Barbara Eden’s first husband?

Barbara Eden’s first husband was Michael Ansara, an actor known for roles in Broken Arrow and Batman. The couple married in 1958 and divorced in 1974. They had one son, Matthew, who passed away in 1981.

Did Barbara Eden remarry after her first divorce?

Yes, Barbara Eden remarried in 1981 to Jon E. Anderson, a businessman and former executive at Twentieth Century Fox. They were married until 2001, when they divorced. Jon passed away in 2015.

Is Barbara Eden currently in a relationship?

No, Barbara Eden is not currently in a romantic relationship. Since her divorce from Jon E. Anderson in 2001, she has remained single and has expressed that she enjoys her independence.

If you’re curious about how names like Barbara carry history and meaning, you might enjoy exploring more about the origin of the name Barbara.

Want to know more about the life of this iconic actress? Learn more about Barbara Eden’s career on our site, or check out famous celebrity couples who left their mark on Hollywood history.