Barbra Streisand Honors Robert Redford at Oscars with Emotional Tribute
Barbra Streisand delivered a moving tribute to her friend and former co-star Robert Redford at the 98th Academy Awards in Los Angeles. The 83-year-old actor and singer remembered Redford, who died in September at age 89, with a heartfelt speech and a performance of the title song from their 1973 romantic drama The Way We Were.
Remembering a Legendary Partnership
Streisand reflected on their time working together on the Sydney Pollack-directed film, noting it was "also about a dark time in our history", referencing the late 1940s and early 1950s era of political tension and loyalty oaths. She emphasized the mutual respect and affection they shared, describing Redford as an "intellectual cowboy who blazed his own trail".
Praising Redford's Courage and Legacy
In her tribute, Streisand highlighted Redford's political activism, commending his efforts to defend press freedom, protect the environment, and support new voices through the Sundance Institute. She shared that in her last note to him, she expressed her love, adding a personal touch to the public homage.
Oscars History and Redford's Achievements
This marked Streisand's first Oscars stage appearance in 13 years, having last performed the same song in 2013 to honor composer Marvin Hamlisch. Redford's own Oscar legacy includes winning Best Director for Ordinary People in 1980 and receiving an honorary Academy Award presented by Streisand in 2002. His career featured iconic roles in films like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting, and All the President's Men.
Previous Tributes and Personal Memories
Following Redford's death, Streisand paid tribute on Instagram, recalling their time on set as "exciting, intense and pure joy". She noted their contrasting personalities—Redford's equestrian background versus her allergies—and praised him as "charismatic, intelligent, intense, always interesting" and one of the finest actors ever. Friends and filmmakers have also remembered him as "always the coolest, calmest man in the room", underscoring his enduring impact on Hollywood.
