I Dream Of Jeannie
Some shows are even more successful when the repeats are broadcast and this is true of the situation comedy, I Dream of Jeannie. It’s original run was from 1965-1970 but the following decade saw its popularity rise when it went to syndication. The story revolved around a beautiful genie played by Barbara Eden. Larry Hagman, who would go on to iconic status as JR in Dallas, starred opposite her as astronaut Tony Nelson. Nelson has an accident resulting in an unscheduled stop on a tropical island. Finding a bottle, he opens it and releases Jeannie who has been dormant for 2,000 years. She is very grateful for her liberty and tells him that he is her master now, according to custom. He goes home to Florida with her in pursuit.
The relationship between the two stars builds slowly, developing from master and loyal genie to romance. Captain Nelson (later promoted to Major) is constantly frustrated and bewildered by the antics of his new companion and finds himself in some tricky situations. One of the hardest things is keeping her a secret from his friends and colleagues. Jeannie does her best to fit in, with hilarious consequences. He tries to shake her off but her charms work on him eventually. The combination of fantasy and love works well and they tie the knot in the final season. Further complications ensue in I Dream of Jeannie when Jeannie’s sister and mother come to call. Barbara Eden also played the sister and her own mother in the beginning.
The show was a great boost to Hagman’s career and many people forget that he is a talented comic actor. He also directed episodes on occasion. Eden was impressive too and had a big male following, not surprising, as her costumes were quite skimpy for the times. Guest appearances included Ted Cassidy, Harold Gould and Farrah Fawcett. The continuing interest in the comedy spawned numerous television specials, including I Dream of Jeannie: 5 Years Later in 1985 and I Still Dream of Jeannie in 1991. Unfortunately, Hagman could not take part in the latter due to commitments on the Dallas set. Hanna-Barbera also brought out an animated version of the show in 1973.
Fans still fondly remember the show. It is very much of its time and has great nostalgia value. It’s difficult to imagine a comedy about a genie being written today. Some episodes of I Dream of Jeannie are available on DVD and this will, no doubt, be extended to others.
Technorati Tags: No Tags
Related Tags: No Tags
Possible Related Posts
No related posts