Barbra Streisand, the legendary singer, actress, and director, received the SAG Life Achievement Award at the 30th Screen Actors Guild Awards on Saturday, February 24th. The 81-year-old icon was honored for her remarkable contributions to film, television, music, and theater, as well as her activism and philanthropy.
Streisand was presented with the award by Jennifer Aniston, who praised her as an inspiration and an icon. Aniston highlighted Streisand’s achievements as an EGOT winner (someone who has won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony), a trailblazer for women in the industry, and a champion for social justice.
Bradley Cooper, who directed and starred in the remake of A Star Is Born, a film that Streisand also starred in and directed, also joined in the tribute, commending her for her natural and expressive performance style.
The eight-time Grammy winner accepted the award with a gracious and emotional speech, thanking the Screen Actors Guild and her fellow actors for their support and recognition. She also joked about not having to sit in the audience and ‘squirm’ since “you know in advance you’re going to get it (the award).”
She recalled her childhood dream of becoming an actress, and how she overcame the challenges and rejections she faced along the way. She also acknowledged the importance of diversity and inclusion in the entertainment world, and urged the audience to use their art and voice to make a difference.
Her speech moved many of the attendees and viewers, who gave her a standing ovation.
Barbra Streisand’s latest honor adds to her impressive collection of awards and accolades, which include two Oscars, five Emmys, eight Grammys, and a Tony, among others. She is also one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with more than 150 million records sold worldwide.
Streisand is not only a successful entertainer, but also a generous and influential philanthropist. She has donated millions of dollars to various causes, such as women’s health, education, civil rights, and environmental protection. She has also founded several organizations, including the Barbra Streisand Foundation and the Barbra Streisand Women’s Heart Center.