For decades, Hollywood has been a hotbed of speculation, particularly when it comes to the supposed rivalries between its most luminous stars. Among the most enduring of these whispers has been the idea of a magical showdown, a “sorceress smackdown,” between two iconic blonde bombshells of 1960s television: Barbara Eden of ‘I Dream of Jeannie’ and Elizabeth Montgomery of ‘Bewitched.’ It’s a tale that has captivated fans and fueled imaginations for generations.
But what really happened behind the scenes when these two enchanting actresses were captivating audiences on rival networks, often playing similarly bewitching roles? The idea of a mystic melee, a secret animosity bubbling beneath the surface of their on-screen charm, has always been too tantalizing to simply dismiss. However, as with many tales spun in the glittering world of entertainment, the truth is often far more nuanced than the sensational headlines suggest.
Now, as ‘I Dream of Jeannie’ celebrates its 60th anniversary, its beloved star Barbara Eden, at a remarkable 94 years young, is once again stepping forward to clear the air, once and for all. She’s revisiting those long-standing rumors that have followed her for more than half a century, ready to shatter the myth of a fierce feud and reveal the genuine, albeit brief, nature of her relationship with the late Elizabeth Montgomery. Her insights offer a refreshing and candid look into the lives of two women who, despite public perception, shared more common ground than many ever realized.
1. The Lingering ‘Sorceress Smackdown’ Rumors
The notion of a “sorceress smackdown” between Barbara Eden and Elizabeth Montgomery has been a persistent piece of Hollywood folklore. It’s an idea that, for years, captured the imagination of fans, suggesting that the two leading ladies of classic television were locked in a mystical rivalry. This captivating rumor, of magic users from rival shows in a fierce competition, proved to be an irresistible piece of gossip for the public.
The concept of a personal feud seemed to make a certain kind of sense, at least on the surface. After all, Eden’s Jeannie was an all-powerful bottle-dweller in a suburban setting, while Montgomery portrayed a witch who traded her wand for domesticity as a suburban housewife. The thematic similarities between ‘I Dream of Jeannie’ on NBC and ‘Bewitched’ on ABC naturally led to comparisons.
These whispers have followed the ‘I Dream of Jeannie’ icon for more than half a century, weaving a narrative of tension that many fans believed. Yet, despite the widespread circulation of these stories, the core truth of the matter has often been overlooked. The simple fact is that much of what was perceived as a rivalry was often an external construction, not a reflection of the reality between the two actresses.
2. Rival Networks, Similar Magic: The Genesis of the Gossip
The very foundation of the feud rumors lay in the parallel universes these shows inhabited. ‘I Dream of Jeannie’ ran on NBC from 1965 to 1970, enjoying decent ratings and a devoted following. Meanwhile, ‘Bewitched,’ which premiered a year earlier in 1964, was a ratings juggernaut for ABC, running until 1972.
The overlap in their premises was undeniable: both featured magical women navigating ordinary suburban life, often using their powers in humorous or unexpected ways. This created a direct, albeit network-driven, competition in the television landscape of the 1960s. For audiences and the media alike, it was an easy leap to assume that the professional competition extended to personal animosity between the stars.
This environment made it fertile ground for gossip. The media, eager for a compelling narrative, readily embraced and amplified the idea of a rivalry between the two blonde actresses. It was a classic Hollywood trope: two successful women, seemingly in direct opposition, battling for viewership and popularity. However, the reality of their relationship was far less dramatic than the stories being circulated.
3. Media-Fueled Frenzy: How the Press Ran With the Rivalry Narrative
Given the compelling overlap in premise and the direct competition between their respective shows, it was almost inevitable that the media would latch onto the idea of a rivalry and sensationalize it. The press found a ready-made story in the perceived conflict between these two beloved stars. This narrative, while exciting for readers, often strayed far from the actual interactions between Eden and Montgomery.
The idea that the two magic users of classic television were somehow locked in a mystic melee was simply “too good a rumor to cast aside.” It made for engaging headlines and fueled water cooler conversations, providing endless fodder for fan speculation. The entertainment industry thrives on such drama, and the “sorceress smackdown” was a prime example of a manufactured narrative taking on a life of its own.
Barbara Eden herself has been clear about this for years, explaining that “if there was any perceived rivalry, it was the producers’ invention.” The intense focus on their competing shows and similar roles created an external pressure, which the media then interpreted as personal strife. It was a narrative driven by external forces rather than any genuine animosity or tension between the actresses themselves.
4. Barbara Eden’s Decades-Long Mission to Debunk the Feud
For more than five decades, Barbara Eden has been steadfast in her efforts to put these lingering rumors to rest. She has consistently maintained that the supposed feud between her and Elizabeth Montgomery was largely an invention, a product of producers and the press, rather than any real ill will between them. Her commitment to setting the record straight has been unwavering throughout the years.
Even as recently as 2024, at 94 years old, Eden has reiterated her stance, telling Fox News Digital that the alleged “feud” was never real. She once again dispelled any notion of animosity toward her magical rival. This consistent message, delivered over many years and through various interviews, underscores the baselessness of the persistent gossip.
In a conversation with Fox News, Eden directly addressed the allegations, firmly stating that there was no bad blood. Her persistence in debunking the myth, even decades after the shows concluded and Montgomery’s passing, highlights her desire to honor the truth and the memory of her fellow actress. It’s a testament to her character and her commitment to accuracy.
5. ‘Always Pleasant’: Eden’s Firsthand Account of Montgomery
When Barbara Eden speaks about Elizabeth Montgomery, her words paint a picture of professional respect and cordiality. She fondly recalled their limited interactions, emphasizing the pleasant nature of Montgomery’s demeanor. It was a relationship built on shared experience within the demanding world of television production, rather than deep personal intimacy.
“I enjoyed being with her,” Eden stated, providing a direct and personal insight into their rapport. She further clarified, “We did not have a lot of time to talk or be girlfriends. Remember, we would be in the makeup department in the morning, getting ready for our scenes. We had to get to work. But she was always pleasant.” This statement, repeated in various interviews, is a consistent and key piece of Eden’s testimony.
These brief encounters, primarily in the makeup department during early morning call times, were the extent of their regular interactions. Despite the lack of time for forming a close friendship, Eden consistently found Montgomery to be agreeable and professional. Her repeated assertions, including in the ‘Bewitched’ 60th: Anniversary Special documentary, firmly debunk the idea of any personal issues.
6. A Shared Journey: Pregnancy and Motherhood Behind the Scenes
Beyond the studio lights and competing scripts, Barbara Eden and Elizabeth Montgomery shared a uniquely personal bond. Both actresses experienced pregnancy around the same time in the mid-1960s, a shared journey that brought a different kind of connection to their lives. This common experience offered a glimpse into their lives away from the cameras.
Eden fondly recalled this parallel chapter in their lives, stating, “I’d see her every morning. We were both pregnant together, we both had our babies around the same time.” This intimate detail reveals a warmth and shared humanity that contrasts sharply with the frosty rivalry painted by the media. It was a bond that transcended their professional competition.
Barbara Eden welcomed her son Matthew in August 1965, while Elizabeth Montgomery gave birth to her second son, Robert, in the very same year. These parallel personal milestones, occurring amidst their demanding careers, illustrate a deeper, more relatable connection between the two women than any manufactured feud could ever suggest. They were navigating motherhood simultaneously, a common ground that fostered empathy and understanding.
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7. ‘Producers’ Invention’: The Truth About the Rivalry’s Origin
Barbara Eden has been unequivocal in pinpointing the true source of the alleged rivalry: the creators of their respective shows. She consistently asserts that if any animosity was perceived, it originated not from the actresses themselves, but from the narrative crafted by those behind the scenes. This puts the responsibility squarely on the shoulders of the industry, not the individuals.
“If there was any perceived rivalry, it was the producers’ invention,” Eden stated directly in various interviews, including the ‘Bewitched’ 60th Anniversary Special. This powerful declaration serves as a definitive debunking of the personal feud theory. It suggests that the competitive spirit was deliberately fostered for promotional purposes, not because of genuine interpersonal conflict.
Indeed, Elizabeth Montgomery herself reportedly had issues with ‘I Dream of Jeannie’ writers due to perceived similarities with ‘Bewitched,’ but this never translated into personal problems with Barbara Eden. This distinction is crucial, highlighting that any tension was a professional, creative disagreement between production teams, not a personal vendetta between the stars. The “so-called rivalry was nothing more than Hollywood gossip,” as Eden so concisely put it.”
8. ‘It Was Hello, Goodbye’: Practicalities of On-Set Interactions
Despite the persistent whispers of a rivalry, Barbara Eden consistently highlights the practical realities of their interactions, or rather, the lack thereof. Both ‘I Dream of Jeannie’ and ‘Bewitched’ were filmed concurrently on the bustling Columbia Pictures lot during the late 1960s. While this proximity might have fueled public speculation about a close bond or intense competition, the truth was far more mundane: demanding production schedules severely limited any potential for deep personal connection between the two leading ladies.
Eden candidly explained the nature of these brief encounters, which typically occurred in the early hours of the morning. ‘Remember, the only time we saw each other was at 6:00 in the morning,’ she shared, painting a picture of pre-dawn call times and the pressing need to get ready for filming. It was a time for professionalism, not prolonged socializing, as she admitted, ‘So we were not really Chatty Cathy at that time of the morning, at least I’m not. It was hello, goodbye. It’s good to see you. Things like that.’ These fleeting moments were the extent of their regular interactions.
Such brief, morning greetings, focused on the start of a demanding workday, were hardly the breeding ground for a deep friendship, let alone a fierce, long-standing feud. The environment of a busy studio lot, with its tight schedules and separate production demands, meant that even if two stars worked steps apart, their paths often intersected only minimally. Eden’s account makes it clear that the circumstances simply didn’t allow for the kind of personal animosity that the public was so eager to imagine.
Therefore, the very proximity that was supposed to ignite a rivalry actually underscored the lack of genuine personal conflict. Their interactions were marked by cordiality and mutual respect, shaped by the professional demands of their iconic roles rather than any underlying tension. It was a testament to their professionalism that despite the external pressures, their personal conduct remained consistently pleasant and unassuming.
9. Elizabeth Montgomery’s Dignified Silence on the Rumors
While Barbara Eden has spent decades actively dispelling the rumors of a feud, Elizabeth Montgomery’s approach to the persistent speculation was markedly different. Throughout her life and career, the beloved star of ‘Bewitched’ maintained a dignified silence regarding any alleged animosity with her ‘magical rival.’ This absence of public comment speaks volumes, suggesting a quiet dismissal of what she likely considered baseless gossip.
Montgomery tragically passed away in 1995 at the age of 62, after a brief battle with cancer. Until her untimely death, she never once publicly addressed the supposed rivalry with Barbara Eden. This unwavering silence stands in stark contrast to the continuous media churn and fan speculation that surrounded the two actresses for decades. It implies that the rumors simply weren’t significant enough in her own life to warrant a response.
Her silence can be interpreted not as an endorsement of the rumors, but rather as a testament to her character and her focus on her work and private life. By choosing not to engage with the sensationalized narrative, Montgomery allowed the gossip to wither on its own terms, refusing to lend it any credibility with a public statement. This professional reserve reinforces Eden’s consistent assertion that the feud was a construct, not a reality, between the two women.
This dignified non-response from Elizabeth Montgomery further substantiates Barbara Eden’s claims that any “sorceress smackdown” was an invention of external forces. Had there been genuine bad blood or a rivalry, it is conceivable that one or both parties might have eventually let slip a hint of tension. However, Montgomery’s steadfast quietude on the matter underscores the ultimate emptiness of the media-fueled narrative.
10. Two Stars, Two Legacies: Celebrating Their Television Careers
Beyond the fabricated rivalries and shared moments of early morning pleasantries, both Barbara Eden and Elizabeth Montgomery forged remarkable and enduring legacies in the annals of television history. Their respective sitcoms, though often pitted against each other by the press, were groundbreaking in their own right, captivating millions of viewers and securing their places as iconic figures of the 1960s.
Barbara Eden mesmerized audiences as the mischievous, yet utterly charming, Jeannie on NBC’s ‘I Dream of Jeannie.’ From 1965 to 1970, her portrayal of a 2,000-year-old genie in a bottle, navigating modern suburban life with her master Major Tony Nelson (Larry Hagman), became a cultural phenomenon. Her comedic timing and radiant presence earned her two prestigious Golden Globe nominations, solidifying her status as a beloved star alongside co-stars Bill Daily and Hayden Rorke.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth Montgomery enchanted viewers as the resourceful and witty witch Samantha Stephens on ABC’s ‘Bewitched.’ Premiering a year earlier in 1964 and running for eight highly successful seasons until 1972, the show showcased Montgomery’s incredible talent as she portrayed a powerful witch attempting to live a normal, mortal life with her advertising executive husband, Darrin Stephens. Her iconic performance garnered her an impressive five Primetime Emmy nominations and four Golden Globe nods, supported by a stellar cast including Dick York, Dick Sargent, Agnes Moorehead, and David White.
These accolades and the longevity of their shows speak volumes about the individual brilliance of Eden and Montgomery. Their ability to lead hit series and create unforgettable characters is a testament to their exceptional acting prowess and undeniable star power. Regardless of any external comparisons or perceived competition, their distinct contributions enriched the television landscape and continue to resonate with new generations of viewers, affirming their remarkable, independent legacies.
Their work, though sometimes thematically similar, truly stood on its own merits. Each actress brought a unique charm and depth to her magical role, cementing her status as a household name. The sustained popularity and critical recognition for both ‘I Dream of Jeannie’ and ‘Bewitched’ demonstrate that the era was rich enough for two such bright and talented stars to shine simultaneously, without needing to diminish one another.
11. Montgomery’s Post-‘Bewitched’ Brilliance and Versatility
While ‘Bewitched’ remains Elizabeth Montgomery’s most iconic role and her only regular television series, her career after the show’s conclusion was far from over. Demonstrating a remarkable range and dedication to her craft, Montgomery embarked on a successful post-‘Bewitched’ career, primarily focusing on made-for-television films, where she consistently garnered critical acclaim and showcased her versatility as an actress.
Her made-for-TV movies were often compelling and challenging roles, moving beyond the comedic lightness of Samantha Stephens. Notable performances included the powerful 1974 drama ‘A Case of Rape,’ the chilling 1975 historical mystery ‘The Legend of Lizzie Borden,’ and the intense 1993 true-crime story ‘Black Widow Murders: The Blanche Taylor Moore Story.’ These roles allowed her to explore darker, more complex characters, proving her capabilities across various genres.
Beyond television, Montgomery also made appearances on the big screen during the 1950s and 1960s, featuring in films such as 1955’s ‘The Court-Martial of Billy Mitchell’ alongside Gary Cooper and the 1963 production ‘Johnny Cool.’ Decades later, she lent her distinctive voice as the narrator for ‘The Panama Deception,’ the 1993 Academy Award-winning documentary, further demonstrating her artistic breadth and commitment to meaningful projects.
Her final project, ‘Deadline for Murder,’ aired on CBS just a week before her passing. In this film, she reprised the role of journalist Edna Buchanan, a character she had first brought to life in the 1994 production ‘The Corpse Had a Familiar Face.’ This dedication to her work, right up until the very end, underscores her enduring passion for acting and her commitment to delivering powerful performances, cementing a legacy that extended far beyond her famous magical persona.
12. Further Testimonies: Sally Field’s Engaging Account
Adding another valuable perspective to the narrative, fellow 1960s television star Sally Field provided her own insights into the environment on the Columbia Pictures lot, further supporting Barbara Eden’s assertions about the lack of animosity. Field, known for her roles in ‘Gidget’ and ‘The Flying Nun,’ offered a glimpse into the everyday interactions between the stars, painting a picture of camaraderie rather than conflict.
During a 1996 appearance on ‘The Rosie O’Donnell Show,’ Sally Field recalled the shared experiences of many actresses on the lot. She described a large, communal makeup room where stars would gather early each morning. ‘It was a big room where everyone came every morning at their call, which was usually six in the morning, and you got made up with everybody,’ she explained, highlighting the shared, often mundane, aspects of their glamorous careers.
Field’s account included a particularly charming anecdote that humanized the two icons. She recollected, ‘Barbara Eden was endlessly singing, and I remember Elizabeth Montgomery [saying], ‘She doesn’t shut up!” This playful observation from Montgomery, far from being a sign of disdain, suggests a lighthearted, even affectionate, interaction between colleagues. It speaks to a normal, un-dramatic relationship, where minor quirks were noted with humor rather than malice.
This firsthand testimony from another prominent actress of the era further debunks the ‘feud’ narrative. It demonstrates that the interactions between Eden and Montgomery were typical of professional colleagues – brief, pleasant, and occasionally sprinkled with good-natured observations. Sally Field’s recollection adds a relatable, authentic layer to the history, confirming that the perceived rivalry was indeed a product of external conjecture, not internal strife.
13. Elizabeth Montgomery’s Tragic Passing and Enduring Memory
The vibrant life and remarkable career of Elizabeth Montgomery came to a poignant end in 1995 when she passed away at the age of 62. Her death, caused by colon cancer that had tragically metastasized to her liver, was a sudden and devastating loss for her family, friends, and legions of fans who had adored her since her ‘Bewitched’ days and through her compelling post-series work.
Her illness progressed rapidly and largely undetected until its late stages. Montgomery had reportedly brushed off flu-like symptoms while filming her final project, ‘Deadline for Murder: From the Files of Edna Buchanan.’ By the time she sought medical attention, the diagnosis was dire: the cancer had already spread aggressively. She succumbed to the disease a mere eight weeks after receiving her medical report, leaving a profound void in the entertainment world.
Elizabeth Montgomery’s passing marked the end of an era for many. Her iconic portrayal of Samantha Stephens, a role that brought magic and humor into millions of homes, secured her place in television history. Even decades after her death, her performances continue to captivate audiences, a testament to her talent and the indelible mark she left on popular culture. Her grace, both on and off screen, and her dignified silence regarding baseless rumors, remain a significant part of her enduring legacy.
Her memory continues to be honored by those who worked with her and by her devoted fan base. The impact of her work, particularly in breaking ground for strong female characters on television, resonates to this day. Elizabeth Montgomery’s life was one of incredible talent, professional dedication, and a quiet personal dignity that defied the often sensationalistic world of Hollywood gossip.
14. Barbara Eden Today: A Continued Legacy and Unwavering Spirit
At a remarkable 94 years young, Barbara Eden continues to be a vibrant and inspiring presence, steadfastly maintaining her commitment to the truth about her relationship with Elizabeth Montgomery. Her journey through Hollywood, marked by both soaring professional highs and profound personal challenges, reflects an unwavering spirit and a dedication to living authentically, beyond the glare of celebrity rumor.
Beyond her iconic role as Jeannie, Barbara Eden has channeled her experiences into advocacy. Following the tragic passing of her only son, Matthew, from an overdose in 2001 at the age of 35, she became a vocal advocate for those dealing with substance abuse. Her work in this area showcases her resilience and her profound desire to help others, turning personal sorrow into a force for good.
Today, Eden enjoys a fulfilling life alongside her husband, Jon Eicholtz, maintaining a disciplined routine that keeps her active and engaged. She openly shared her approach to staying fit with Fox News in 2024, detailing her transition from intense workouts to a more gentle regimen. ‘I used to work out all the time. I used to do spinning classes and then do weights with a trainer,’ she explained. ‘But when COVID hit, that ended my heavy workouts. Now I have a stationary bicycle and I lift five pounds. I use very lightweight weights, but they’re good for your bones.’
Barbara Eden’s life today is a testament to her enduring strength, her dedication to her family, and her commitment to accuracy, especially in setting the record straight about past Hollywood gossip. She stands as a living legend, not just for her enchanting performances, but for her grace, her advocacy, and her refusal to let false narratives overshadow the genuine connections she shared with her peers, even if those connections were simply ‘hello, goodbye’ at 6 AM.
As we reflect on the intertwined narratives of Barbara Eden and Elizabeth Montgomery, the true story that emerges is far more compelling than any sensationalized feud. It’s a story of two incredibly talented women who, despite being placed in a manufactured rivalry by their industry, navigated their parallel careers with professionalism, mutual respect, and a shared humanity. Their legacies are not defined by competition, but by the indelible mark they each left on television, forever enchanting audiences with their unique brands of magic. The real ‘truth’ is a quiet testament to their individual brilliance and the lasting impact of their groundbreaking work.
