Barbara Eden's sudden illness prompts last-minute exit from film festival

Barbara Eden, a noted actress with an illustrious career, was set to receive the Cinecon Legacy Award at the Cinecon Classic Film Festival in Los Angeles on September 5.

Yet, at the eleventh hour, she dropped out.

According to the event organizers' Facebook post, "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."

The statement read, “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."

“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 message read.

Eden, however, still received the award, but not directly.

Instead, her long-time co-star Pat Boone, who starred with her in All Hands on Deck and The Yellow Canary, received it.

It is worth noting that Eden turned 95 last August.

Now, an update from the star clarified what caused her to abruptly cancel her appearance at the Cinecon Classic Film Festival: it was not illness.

"It's OK, everyone! I'm OK!" she wrote on Instagram. "Oh my goodness, there has been a bit of miscommunication. I'm not suffering from an illness."

She blamed her new medication, "which turned out to have some nasty side effects." 

"What awful timing for this to happen! My deepest appreciation to everyone for the concern," Eden concluded, before adding, "This is just a speedbump! I expect to be out and about as soon as I'm given the go-ahead!"