Barbara Eden remembers late Shelley Fabares: ‘It was more fun than work’

Barbara Eden is recalling “happy memories” with late co-star Shelley Fabares.

On Monday, August 24, the 95-year-old actress shared a heartfelt tribute on social media in the wake of her Ride the Wild Surf costar’s death.

“Oh goodness, what can I say about Shelley Fabares,” Eden began in an Instagram post.

“Dear sweet Shelley,” she continued. “I learned just now of her passing on Saturday. While I’m saddened by the news, I am filled with happy memories of filming Ride the Wild Surf with her, Susan Hart and all the boys!”

For the unversed, Fabares’ husband Mike Farrell confirmed in a statement that his wife passed away on Saturday, August 22, in Los Angeles surrounded by her loved ones.

Looking back at their time together Eden penned, “In the acting world you never know what type of people your fellow castmates may be when you start a project. It’s always a treat when you find yourself among good, happy people.”

“Us girls all shared a little bungalow on Oahu together and it was more fun than work!” she recounted. “The whole group of us were having a ball!”

“My thoughts and condolences to Shelley’s husband Mike Farrell and their loved ones,” Eden mourned the death of Fabares, whom she described as “truly was a sweet, good girl” and “a darling woman, a lovely actress and a wonderful singer.”

Her tribute included a black-and-white photo of her and Fabares, smiling while wearing bikinis as they sat on a blanket on the beach on the set of the 1964 rom-com, which starred Fabares as Brie, the love interest of Fabian’s Jody.