Barbra Streisand will not attend the Cannes Film Festival closing ceremony to receive her honorary Palme d’Or due to a knee injury.
Streisand's Statement
On Sunday, Streisand released a statement expressing her disappointment, saying, “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.” She added, “But 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.”
Streisand further expressed her regret at missing the opportunity to reconnect with admired colleagues and her affection for France. “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. My heartfelt thanks to the Festival, and to everyone who continues to support and champion the art of cinema.”
Tribute in Absentia
The festival will still honor Streisand during the closing ceremony on May 23. A press release from the festival stated, “Iris Knobloch, Thierry Frémaux and the entire festival team send Barbra Streisand their warmest wishes for a prompt recovery.”
Other Honorees
Streisand is one of three recipients of the Cannes honorary Palme d’Or this year, joining Peter Jackson and John Travolta. Travolta was surprised with the award before the premiere of his directorial debut “Propeller One-Way Night Coach,” which led to an emotional reaction from the actor, known for “Grease” and “Pulp Fiction.” Travolta expressed his astonishment, saying, “This is beyond the Oscar. I can’t believe this. This is the last thing I expected.”
Upcoming Ceremony
The Cannes Film Festival closing ceremony will reveal the winner of the prestigious Palme d’Or for best film and takes place at 8:15 p.m. CET on May 23.
Source: https://variety.com/2026/film/festivals/barbra-streisand-cant-attend-cannes-palme-dor-knee-injury-1236751729/
