Is Barbra Streisand an EGOT? A Deep Dive into Her Awards

Barbra Streisand is undeniably a titan of entertainment, a performer whose career has spanned decades and encompassed music, film, television, and theater. But despite her impressive collection of accolades, a question often arises: is she an EGOT winner? The answer, as it turns out, is complicated.

What Does EGOT Mean?

EGOT is an acronym for Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Awards. It represents the achievement of winning at least one competitive award in each of these four major American entertainment categories. It’s considered one of the most exclusive achievements in show business.

Streisand’s Award Tally

As of March 19, 2026, Barbra Streisand’s award count stands as follows:

• Emmys: Five (four Primetime, one Daytime)
• Grammys: Ten
• Oscars: Two
• Tonys: One Special Tony Award, two nominations

The Tony Award Hurdle

Streisand received Tony nominations for her performances in I Can Receive It for You Wholesale (1962) and Funny Girl (1964). She lost both times, to Phyllis Newman and Carol Channing, respectively. In 1970, the Tony Awards presented her with a special “Star of the Decade” award, but this is generally not considered a competitive win for EGOT purposes.

The Debate Over Honorary Awards

The question of whether honorary awards should count toward an EGOT is a long-standing debate. Many awards experts maintain that only awards won in competitive categories should be included. This is because competitive awards are judged against other nominees, representing a direct comparison of artistic merit.

The Complicated Landscape of EGOT Eligibility

The number of categories within each award show likewise impacts the perceived difficulty of achieving an EGOT. The Grammys and Emmys have significantly more categories than the Oscars and Tonys, potentially increasing the chances of a win. Recent changes, such as the now-discontinued Daytime Emmy category for musical performance, have further complicated the definition of a legitimate EGOT.

Streisand’s Unique Achievements

While not an EGOT winner by strict definition, Streisand holds several unique distinctions. She is the only person to win an Oscar for both acting (Funny Girl) and songwriting (“Evergreen” from A Star Is Born). She is also tied as the most-awarded artist in Golden Globe Awards history, with nine wins.

Current EGOT Status

As of early 2024, twenty-two people have achieved EGOT status by winning competitive awards in all four categories. Steven Spielberg became the most recent EGOT winner, securing his Grammy Award in 2024.

Despite not officially being an EGOT, Barbra Streisand’s impact on entertainment is undeniable. Her talent, versatility, and enduring legacy solidify her status as a true icon.