"I Dream of Jeannie" is a classic American television sitcom that aired from 1965 to 1970. Here are some interesting facts about the show:
Premiere and Run: The show premiered on NBC on September 18, 1965, and ran for a total of five seasons, concluding on May 26, 1970.
Concept: The series revolves around an astronaut, Captain Tony Nelson, played by Larry Hagman, who discovers a beautiful genie, Jeannie, played by Barbara Eden, in a bottle after crash-landing on a deserted island.
Genie's Costume: The iconic harem costume worn by Barbara Eden as Jeannie was actually designed by Gwen Wakeling, the wife of the show's creator, Sidney Sheldon. The design was considered modest for the time but still generated some controversy.
Major Anthony Nelson: Larry Hagman's character, Major Anthony Nelson, was named after astronaut Major General Anthony Nelson, who was the second American to orbit the Earth.
Bottle Prop: The famous genie bottle used in the show is a Jim Beam bourbon bottle. The show's art director, Henry Blumenthal, spotted it in a liquor store and thought it would be perfect for the show.
Character Names: The show features characters with names inspired by popular figures. For example, Jeannie's best friend is named 'Roger Healey,' likely a nod to the actor Roger Moore, who was well-known at the time.
Crossover with "Bewitched": In the 1966-67 season, there was a crossover episode between "I Dream of Jeannie" and another popular sitcom, "Bewitched," titled "The Battle of Waikiki." It featured characters from both shows interacting in a special storyline.
Barbara Eden's Pregnant Stomach: During the fifth season, Barbara Eden became pregnant. To hide her pregnancy, the producers cleverly incorporated it into the storyline by having Jeannie and Tony magically conceive a child.
Cancellation and Syndication: Despite its popularity, "I Dream of Jeannie" was canceled after its fifth season due to a change in NBC's programming strategy. However, the show gained a significant following in syndication, becoming a beloved classic.
"I Dream of Jeannie" remains a beloved and iconic show in television history, known for its blend of comedy, fantasy, and the charming dynamic between its lead characters.