Barbara Eden Discusses Working with Elvis Presley on 'Flaming Star'

Veteran actress Barbara Eden, widely recognized for her role in I Dream of Jeannie, has recently shared insights into her experience working with music icon Elvis Presley. The two starred together in the 1960 Western film Flaming Star. Eden, now 94, spoke about Presley's acting talent and their professional relationship during the production.

Key Takeaways

Barbara Eden described Elvis Presley as a "fine actor" and a "lovely man."
Their 1960 film, Flaming Star, initially underperformed because Presley did not sing.
An additional scene was filmed to include Presley with his guitar and Eden dancing.
Eden emphasized their relationship was professional, not romantic.
Presley spoke to Eden about a young woman he met in Germany, who would become Priscilla Presley.

Presley's Acting Talent Highlighted by Eden

Barbara Eden reflected on her time with Elvis Presley, specifically pointing to his abilities as an actor. She stated that many people did not fully recognize or appreciate his dramatic skills. Flaming Star provided Presley with a role that demanded significant acting, and according to Eden, he delivered a strong performance.

"I remember how good he was. He was a fine actor," Eden told People magazine. She added that his part in Flaming Star "was a part that required good acting, and he did it, boy." This perspective offers a view of Presley beyond his musical fame.

Film Fact

Flaming Star was Elvis Presley's sixth film. It was one of only two movies where he did not sing on screen, which disappointed many of his fans at the time.

Initial Challenges and Reshoots for Flaming Star

The film Flaming Star did not achieve immediate box office success upon its initial release. Eden explained that a primary reason for this was the audience's expectation for Presley to sing. His fans, accustomed to his musical performances, were reportedly frustrated by the absence of songs in the Western drama.

Due to this feedback, Eden and Presley returned to film an additional scene. This new sequence was designed to incorporate Presley's musical persona. Eden humorously described the scene: "It was supposed to be [me] dancing," while showing Presley with his guitar as Eden was "hopping around the table." This adjustment aimed to appease his fanbase.

"I just think people didn't recognize or appreciate what a fine actor he was, and a lovely, lovely man."
— Barbara Eden, People

A Professional and Respectful Relationship

Eden clarified that her relationship with Presley was strictly professional and respectful, unlike the romantic dynamics often seen between Presley and his other leading ladies. She emphasized his gentlemanly conduct on set, recalling how he would offer her a chair. "Actors don't do that. You can sit on the floor, they don't care," she noted, highlighting Presley's unique consideration.

During breaks from filming, Presley often had family and friends visit the set. Eden remembered these visits fondly, stating that they would "play their guitars and sing in between shots." This created a relaxed and friendly atmosphere on location.

Background on Flaming Star

Released in 1960, Flaming Star tells the story of a half-Kiowa, half-white man (Presley) caught between two cultures during a conflict. It was a more serious role for Presley, departing from the musical comedies he often performed.

Presley's Personal Conversations and Priscilla

Beyond their work, Eden and Presley engaged in many conversations. During these discussions, Presley shared personal details, including mentioning a young woman he had recently met in Germany. This woman would later become his wife, Priscilla Beaulieu Presley.

Eden recalled Presley expressing some hesitation about their age difference at the time. "I'm not too sure, she's awfully young," she remembered him admitting. This detail offers a glimpse into Presley's private thoughts during that period of his life. Eden's accounts provide a rare, personal perspective on one of music's most enduring figures.