Barbra Streisand is one of the most iconic entertainers of the 20th and 21st centuries. With a career spanning over six decades, she has conquered music, film, and theater, making her one of the few performers to have won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award—earning her EGOT status. Here are some fascinating facts about the legendary Barbra Streisand.
1. Barbra’s Name Was Originally Spelled “Barbara”
At birth, Barbra Streisand was named Barbara Joan Streisand. However, early in her career, she decided to drop the second “a” in her first name to make it more distinctive. The decision to change her name reflected her determination to stand out and craft a unique identity in show business.
2. She Was the First Woman to Write, Produce, Direct, and Star in a Major Studio Film
In 1983, Barbra Streisand made history by becoming the first woman to write, produce, direct, and star in a major Hollywood studio film with Yentl. The film, which tells the story of a Jewish woman who disguises herself as a man to pursue an education, won Streisand a Golden Globe for Best Director. Despite initial industry doubts, Yentl became a critical and financial success, breaking barriers for women in filmmaking.
3. Barbra Is a Multi-Platinum Recording Artist
Streisand’s vocal talents are unmatched. She is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with more than 150 million albums sold worldwide. Her catalog includes 11 number-one albums on the Billboard 200 chart, making her the only artist to achieve that feat in each of the last six decades. Streisand’s albums range from Broadway show tunes to pop standards, showcasing her extraordinary versatility.
4. She’s Won Two Academy Awards
Barbra Streisand has not one but two Academy Awards. Her first Oscar came in 1969 for Best Actress in Funny Girl, a role that made her an international sensation. In 1977, she received her second Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Evergreen,” the love theme from A Star Is Born. Her ability to seamlessly blend acting and singing has made her one of Hollywood’s most revered talents.
5. She Has Stage Fright Despite Her Tremendous Success
Though Barbra Streisand has performed for millions over her career, she suffers from severe stage fright. After forgetting the lyrics to a song during a 1967 concert in New York’s Central Park, she avoided live performances for nearly three decades. It wasn’t until 1994 that she returned to the stage, performing a series of highly successful concerts and tours that were met with critical acclaim.
6. Barbra Streisand’s Directorial Influence
Streisand is one of the few women in Hollywood to make a successful transition from acting to directing. In addition to Yentl, she directed The Prince of Tides (1991), which earned seven Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture. Her direction has always been noted for its focus on deeply emotional and intimate storytelling.
7. A Passionate Advocate for Social Causes
Barbra Streisand is a passionate advocate for many social causes, including women’s rights, environmental issues, and LGBT equality. She established the Barbra Streisand Foundation in 1986, which supports nonprofit organizations focused on a wide range of progressive causes. Streisand’s activism extends to her political support, often lending her voice to campaigns and fundraisers for candidates and causes she believes in.
8. A Collector of Art and Antiques
Beyond her talents in entertainment, Streisand is also an avid collector of art and antiques. Her Malibu home is filled with rare and beautiful pieces, and she has even authored a book, My Passion for Design, which offers a glimpse into her aesthetic vision. Streisand’s eye for design is another reflection of her creativity, extending beyond film and music.
Final Thoughts
Barbra Streisand is a once-in-a-generation talent whose contributions to film, music, and culture have shaped the entertainment industry for decades. Her tenacity, creativity, and trailblazing spirit continue to inspire artists worldwide, and her legacy as a multi-talented icon is unparalleled.
