The first season of I Dream of Jeannie kicks off with the now-famous episode (originally filmed in black and white) wherein the space capsule carrying astronaut Tony Nelson (Larry Hagman) crash-lands on a deserted island. As Tony surveys the surrounding area, he stumbles upon an ancient-looking bottle--out of which pops a gorgeous, harem-clad genie (Barbara Eden), who has been trapped inside the bottle for 2000 years (or 2500 years, who's counting). Gratefully, the beautiful "Jeannie" conjures up a navy helicopter to rescue Tony and deliver him back to his base in Cocoa Beach, Florida. Tony of course is certain that the entire incident was the result of his imagination--until he finds out that Jeannie has loyally followed him to his home, hoping to remain there permanently!
by Hal Erickson
synopsis

