Barbra Streisand SAG Awards Speech: Dream of Becoming Actress

Barbra Streisand receives a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles. Streisand's career was celebrated.

Barbra Streisand's journey to stardom began with a dream that she held close to her heart as a teenager. She spent her days in Brooklyn, sitting on her bed with a pint of coffee ice cream and a movie magazine, yearning to be an actress. After school, she would escape to the Astor Theatre in New York, immersing herself in the world of black-and-white international movies. It was a world of make-believe that offered solace from the harsh realities of her life. Despite being told by her mother to learn to type, Streisand was determined to pursue her passion for the movies. Her dream eventually became a reality, and she became a Hollywood legend, leaving a lasting impact on the industry through her multifaceted career.

At the Screen Actors Guild Awards, Streisand received a Lifetime Achievement Award and delivered an emotional acceptance speech. She credited two influential men from her first film, "Funny Girl," for allowing her to express her opinions and ideas. This set the tone for her entire career, where she continued to break barriers and challenge the status quo. She was honored by two presenters, Jennifer Aniston and Bradley Cooper, and received a lengthy standing ovation from the audience.

Streisand expressed her gratitude for being part of the film industry, emphasizing the power of movies to transport people to another world and provide an escape from their troubles. She also reflected on the pioneers of the industry who fled prejudice in Eastern Europe and built the foundation for the film industry. Streisand's love for film was evident as she shared her experience of watching a French film that moved her to tears, reaffirming her passion for creating meaningful movies.

Aniston and Cooper paid tribute to Streisand's remarkable talents and her groundbreaking achievements. Aniston recalled the first time she heard Streisand's voice, which left a lasting impression on her. She praised Streisand's ability to excel in various roles, from singing to acting, and highlighted her contributions to women's health, civil rights, and environmental issues through the Streisand Foundation. Cooper commended Streisand for her unwavering commitment to realizing her creative vision and honored her unprecedented career.

Streisand's impact on the film industry and her philanthropic efforts have left an indelible mark, and her legacy continues to inspire future generations of artists and filmmakers. Her journey from a young dreamer in Brooklyn to a Hollywood legend serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and passion. As Streisand's remarkable career is celebrated, her influence on the film industry and her philanthropic contributions will continue to shape the world of entertainment and make a lasting difference.