Elvis Presley became one of Hollywood's biggest box-office attractions, but Barbara Eden believes the industry never gave him the chance to become one of its finest actors. More than 60 years after they starred together in Flaming Star, the actress says studio executives were more interested in cashing in on his fame than nurturing his dramatic talent.

The I Dream of Jeannie star recently reflected on working with Presley in the 1960 Western Flaming Star, at the Project Angel Food's Lead With Love telethon, arguing that Hollywood executives prioritized his box-office appeal over helping him build a lasting career as a dramatic actor. According to Eden, the industry's focus was more on making money than showcasing what Presley could do on screen.

Eden, who played Presley's love interest in the film, said she was impressed by his performance from the moment they worked together. She added that his ability as both an actor and singer often went underappreciated, despite what she witnessed firsthand on set.

At the Project Angel Food's Lead With Love telethon, Eden praised Presley's performance in Flaming Star while reflecting on the film during Project Angel Food's Lead With Love telethon.

"I think all they did was use him to get the money. They didn't think about his career or how talented [he was] — my God. He was wonderful, and he was wonderful singing." Eden said at the telethon (via Entertainment Weekly).

Her comments also shine a light on Flaming Star, a film that has gradually earned greater appreciation over the years despite receiving a far different response when it first reached theaters.

Why did Flaming Star become one of Elvis Presley's most respected films?

Released in 1960, Flaming Star marked a sharp departure from the formula that had made Elvis Presley a box-office sensation. Unlike G.I. Blues, which featured 11 songs and a hit soundtrack, the Western included just two songs, allowing Presley to take on a far more dramatic role as a man caught between two cultures in the American West.

Although audiences at the time were less enthusiastic about seeing Presley outside his familiar musical format, the film attracted stronger critical praise. Over the years, its reputation has continued to grow, with many critics viewing it as one of the finest acting performances of his career.

The film has also earned admiration from prominent voices in cinema. Director Quentin Tarantino has described Flaming Star as "a truly great fifties western," while later retrospectives from The New York Times argued that it remains arguably the best film Presley ever made.

Eden has echoed that sentiment in previous interviews, repeatedly describing Presley as "a fine actor" and "a lovely man." More than 60 years after they shared the screen, she still believes Hollywood missed an opportunity to develop one of its biggest stars into an even greater dramatic performer.

Do you think Flaming Star showcased a different side of Elvis Presley that Hollywood should have explored more? Let us know in the comments!

Written by

Aarav Poonia

Edited by

Itti Mahajan