Health Setback Keeps Streisand from Cannes

Iconic entertainer Barbra Streisand has shared that she will be unable to accept her honorary Palme d’Or in person at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival. The 84-year-old star is currently focusing on her recovery from a knee injury, which has prevented her from making the trip to France.

In a recent statement, Streisand expressed her regret regarding the situation:

«On the advice of my doctors, as I continue recovering from a knee injury, I am sadly unable to attend the Festival de Cannes this year. I am deeply honored to receive the honorary Palme d’Or and had so been looking forward to celebrating the remarkable films of the 79th edition.»

Festival Tribute Proceeds Despite Absence

Although the EGOT winner will not be present at the closing ceremony later this month, the festival organizers confirmed that they will still honor her contribution to cinema. A festival spokesperson shared their support for the star, stating, «The entire festival team sends Barbra Streisand their warmest wishes for a prompt recovery.»

Streisand noted that she was particularly saddened to miss out on reconnecting with her peers, remarking:

«I was also very much looking forward to spending time with colleagues whom I so admire — and, of course, returning to France, a place I have always loved. While I regret that I can’t be there in person, I want to extend my warmest congratulations to all of the filmmakers from around the world whose extraordinary talent and creative vision are being celebrated this year.»

Other Notable Honorees

Streisand joins a prestigious group of Palme d’Or recipients this year, which also includes filmmaker Peter Jackson and actor John Travolta. For Travolta, the recognition carries significant weight. Reflecting on his achievement during the premiere of his directorial debut, Propeller One-Way Night Coach, the 72-year-old actor shared his disbelief, noting that the honor feels «beyond the Oscar.»

Travolta expressed his gratitude toward festival director Thierry Frémaux, highlighting the emotional moment he discovered his film had made history at the festival: «I cried like a baby because I just couldn’t believe it. Because in my opinion, you are the most discerning person in the movie industry.»