It’s been over 50 years since Barbara Feldon, now 84, stepped into the iconic role of Agent 99 in the classic TV spoof Get Smart, starring alongside Don Adams as Maxwell Smart. From 1965 to 1970, Feldon’s portrayal of the sharp-witted and glamorous secret agent captured audiences worldwide. But what happened after the cameras stopped rolling? In a candid interview with Closer Weekly, Feldon opens up about her decision to leave the glitz and glamour of Hollywood behind and start a new chapter in New York City.
Barbara’s journey to the Big Apple began in 1977, when she decided it was time to move on from the entertainment industry. “I just never felt that burning desire to act,” she reveals to Closer. For Feldon, who retired from acting in 2006, the decision to leave Hollywood wasn’t about fading fame or a desire to escape the spotlight. Instead, it was about finding fulfillment in a city that truly resonated with her. “New York is where my heart has always been,” she says with a smile.
Life After Hollywood: Why Barbara Chose New York
Barbara and Don on Get Smart.
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For Barbara, the decision to leave Los Angeles wasn’t just about personal preference—it was about finding a place that offered the kind of intellectual and creative stimulation she craved. “New York City is a place where every day feels like an adventure,” she explains. “There’s so much art, culture, and energy here that it keeps me inspired and engaged.” Reflecting on her 12 years in Hollywood, Feldon admits, “It felt like a long break from the life I truly loved in New York. I always knew I’d come back.”
From Pittsburgh to the Big Screen
Barbara’s journey to fame began in her hometown of Pittsburgh, where she developed a passion for the arts. After graduating with a drama degree from the Carnegie Institute of Technology (now Carnegie Mellon University) in 1955, she set her sights on New York City. It was there that she honed her craft and built a successful career before eventually heading west to pursue opportunities in Hollywood. Yet, even at the height of her success, Feldon never lost sight of her roots. “New York has always been my home,” she says with a sense of nostalgia. “It’s where I belong.”
For more on Barbara Feldon’s incredible journey, be sure to pick up the latest issue of Closer Weekly, available now at newsstands. Don’t miss out on this exclusive interview—and sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on all the latest entertainment news!
