Barbra Streisand’s Heartfelt Tribute to Robert Redford at the 2026 Oscars

At the 98th Annual Academy Awards on March 15, 2026, Barbra Streisand delivered a moving tribute to her longtime friend and The Way We Were co-star, Robert Redford, who passed away in September 2025 at the age of 89. The tribute, delivered during the In Memoriam segment, highlighted Redford’s impact as an actor, director, and advocate.

A Fond Remembrance of a Co-Star

Streisand began by recalling her experience working with Redford on The Way We Were, noting his initial reluctance to accept the role of Hubbell Gardiner. “He turned it down because he said the character had no backbone,” she shared, adding that Redford was ultimately correct in his assessment. Despite his initial reservations, Redford eventually agreed to star alongside her, creating a classic on-screen pairing.

She described Redford as a “brilliant, subtle actor” and fondly remembered the dynamic they shared on set. “We had a wonderful time playing off each other, because we never quite knew what the other one was going to do or say,” Streisand remarked.

Beyond the Screen: Redford’s Activism and Legacy

Streisand’s tribute extended beyond their professional collaboration, acknowledging Redford’s commitment to social and political causes. She praised his dedication to defending freedom of the press, protecting the environment, and fostering fresh voices through his Sundance Institute. “He was thoughtful and bold…an intellectual cowboy who blazed his own trail,” she stated.

A Final, Personal Connection

Streisand shared a touching anecdote about a recent phone conversation with Redford, recalling their discussion of “politics, art, [Amedeo] Modigliani—our favorite.” She recounted his final words to her: “’Babs, I love you dearly, and I always will.’” Streisand revealed that she responded with the same sentiment, signing her note simply as “Babs.”

A Musical Farewell

Concluding her tribute, Streisand performed a snippet of “The Way We Were,” the song that became synonymous with their iconic film. The song, which won the Oscar for Best Original Song in 1974, served as a poignant farewell to a beloved colleague and friend.

Robert Redford’s Impact

Robert Redford’s death in September 2025 marked the loss of a significant figure in American cinema. He won an Academy Award for Best Director and was known for his work both in front of and behind the camera. His Sundance Institute continues to champion independent filmmaking and emerging talent.