The 30th Screen Actors Guild Awards was a night solely dedicated to honoring the iconic Barbra Streisand. The legendary entertainer, at 81 years old, received the prestigious SAG Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to her by Jennifer Aniston and Bradley Cooper. Both presenters shared heartfelt speeches and anecdotes before welcoming Barbra to the stage, where she was met with a thunderous standing ovation and cheers from the star-studded audience.
Kicking off her acceptance speech with a touch of comedy, Barbra joked about the relief of knowing she would be receiving the award in advance, avoiding the nerve-wracking anticipation of winning. She expressed gratitude towards the talented actors and directors she had collaborated with throughout her six-decade long career on screen.
Barbra reminisced about her experiences working with William Wyler on ‘Funny Girl’ and the individuals who had a profound impact on her career, including Samuel Goldwyn, Louis B. Mayer, and the Warner Brothers. She also shared her admiration for Marlon Brando, whom she referred to as her “first crush” while watching him in ‘Guys and Dolls’ in 1955.
As she concluded her speech, Barbra expressed her gratitude to the audience for bringing her joy through their performances on screen. The emotional impact of her words was evident, with shots of Anne Hathaway, Billie Eilish, Meryl Streep, Kieran Culkin, and others seen wiping away tears.
While Barbra Streisand has taken a step back from the public eye in recent years, her appearance at the SAG Awards marked a significant moment in her storied career. The EGOT-winning star made headlines with the release of her expansive memoir, ‘My Name is Barbra,’ last year, which she referred to as the conclusion of her public career.
In an interview with the BBC, Barbra hinted at her desire to prioritize living life and enjoying time with her loved ones. She expressed a longing for fun and relaxation, highlighting the importance of spending quality time with her family.
Barbra Streisand’s impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable, and her influence will continue to resonate for generations to come. Her contributions to film, music, and theater have solidified her status as a true icon, inspiring countless artists and leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.