Barbara Eden, the 95-year-old star of "I Dream of Jeannie," called off her appearance at the Cinecon Classic Film Festival in Los Angeles on Saturday night due to sudden illness, sparking health concerns among fans.
Eden had been set to receive the festival's Legacy Award and to join her longtime co-star Pat Boone in introducing a screening of their 1961 film "All Hands on Deck."
The announcement comes just a few hours ahead of the scheduled event.
Taking to Facebook, festival organisers released a statement, which read, “We’re sorry to share that, due to a sudden illness, Barbara Eden will no longer be able to appear in person at Cinecon tonight.”
“Barbara is deeply regretful that she had to cancel at the last minute, as she had been very much looking forward to seeing everyone and celebrating with us,” the statement added.
Organisers also praised fans for their support, writing, “We know how many of you were excited to welcome Barbara. We appreciate your understanding and join you in sending her our best wishes for a speedy recovery.”
The news has drawn an outpouring of support online, with fans posting messages hoping she was resting comfortably and would bounce back soon.
Despite her absence, Cinecon organizers stated Eden would still receive her honor. Boone, who also featured alongside Eden in "The Yellow Canary," accepted the Legacy Award on her behalf during Saturday's ceremony.
Eden is highly popular for her phenomenal performance in I Dream of Jeannie, the fantasy sitcom that ran from 1965 to 1970. Her film credits include Flaming Star, Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea and Harper Valley P.T.A.
Cinecon's 62nd edition runs through Labor Day weekend at the Landmark Nuart Theatre.
