Barbra Streisand will not be attending the 2026 Cannes Film Festival after an ongoing knee injury made it impossible for her to travel, the legendary performer has confirmed.
The 84-year-old icon was set to receive an honorary Palme d’Or at the festival’s closing ceremony at the Grand Théâtre Lumière on May 23, but said she had been advised by doctors to remain at home while she continues her recovery.
In a statement released through the festival, Streisand expressed her regret at missing the event, noting how much she had been looking forward to returning to France and joining fellow filmmakers in celebrating the milestone edition of the festival.
She shared that while she is disappointed not to be there in person, she feels “deeply honored” to be recognized with such a prestigious award and extended her gratitude to the festival and its supporters of cinema.
Streisand also took a moment to congratulate the filmmakers being honored this year, praising their creativity and contribution to global cinema.
Despite her absence, the Cannes Film Festival will still proceed with its planned tribute, highlighting Streisand’s decades-long impact on film and music during the closing ceremony.
Festival organizers sent their well wishes for her recovery, describing her as a “dazzling actress” and “a force of nature,” and reaffirming their admiration for her enduring legacy.
She joins other major figures such as Peter Jackson and John Travolta among this year’s honorary Palme d’Or recipients, continuing Cannes’ tradition of celebrating some of the most influential names in cinema history.#newsafro_
