I Dream Of Jeannie: Then, Now, and Fun Facts About the Show

Hayden Rorke Today

Unfortunately, William Rorke passed away in 1987 at the age of 76. He had been suffering from cancer. His final role was as Dr. Bellows in the TV series’ 1985 reunion movie. He did have a handful of theatrical roles before his “I Dream Of Jeannie” role. He also had various bit rules in films throughout the years including a role in the hit “Pillow Talk” which starred Doris Day and Rock Hudson.

Barbara Eden The Lion Whisperer

They had a real-life lion on set, Barbara was apparently extremely good with the massive animal. She reportedly told Hagman that he needed to “stand very still” and allow the lion to smell him. After that she told him to “lean forward very, very gingerly and stroke him as gently as you can.” Hagman apparently proclaimed, “I’m not making friends with any [bleeping] lion!” The lion got along great with Eden but roared with the full muster of a mighty king of the jungle the moment Hagman stepped on the set to film.