Barbra Streisand graced the Oscars 2026 stage after more than a decade away, bringing tears and cheers to the Dolby Theatre. On March 15, 2026, during the 98th Academy Awards hosted by Conan O’Brien, the 83-year-old legend honored her late ‘The Way We Were’ co-star Robert Redford in a moving “In Memoriam” segment.
Barbra Streisand’s moment of tribute
People magazine first reported the emotional moment, capturing Streisand in a stunning black gown as she recalled their iconic 1973 romance. Redford, who passed away on September 16, 2025, at age 89 in his Sundance, Utah home, starred as the apolitical novelist Hubbell Gardiner opposite Streisand’s passionate activist Katie Morosky. Directed by Sydney Pollack, the film earned six Oscar nominations, including wins for Best Original Song and Score. Streisand shared intimate memories from their final phone call six months after his death. As reported by E! Online, she recounted how they chatted about politics, art, and their shared love for Modigliani. “Years later, we were on the phone discussing our usual topics, politics, art, Modigliani, which was our favorite,” Streisand said. “As we were ending the conversation, he said ‘B, I love you dearly, and I always will.’ She revealed her reply note simply read, “I love you too, Babs.” Streisand called Redford an “intellectual cowboy,” highlighting their unlikely bond. She described every day on the “The Way We Were” set as “thrilling, intense, and pure joy,” per Variety. In her 2023 memoir “My Name is Barbra,” she wrote about his initial reluctance for the role. “The courtship was difficult, but Bob’s hesitance significantly influenced the script, resulting in a more nuanced and compelling character,” Streisand reflected. “He and I shared a genuine connection that the audience could feel.”
Only Robert Redford could play the role of Hubbell
Before singing, Streisand evoked the script she first read, insisting only Redford could play Hubbell. The Associated Press reported her tribute alongside others, like Billy Crystal honoring Rob Reiner. Then, she performed the Oscar-winning title track “The Way We Were,” her voice soaring with raw emotion, last heard at the 2013 Oscars for Marvin Hamlisch. The performance capped a night of remembrance for Hollywood greats. Fans on YouTube and social media praised the duo’s chemistry that endured 53 years. Streisand’s words and song reminded us of Redford’s legacy as actor, director, and founder of the Sundance Institute, a man whose quiet intensity shaped cinema.
