Cannes Fim Fest 2026: Streisand, Palme d’Or Honoree, to Miss Ceremony

I Barbra Streisand

Russell James

In a year in which the Cannes Film Fest lacks Hollywood movies and A-level stars, the presence of Barbra Streisand is a major blow, even it was necessary.

Oscar winning star Streisand is unable to attend the Cannes Fest closing ceremony, May 23, to accept her honorary Palme d’Or after suffering a knee injury.

“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,” Streisand said in a statement on Sunday. “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.”

She added: “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.”

The festival will still pay tribute to the singer, actor and filmmaker during its closing ceremony on May 23, though she will not attend in person. “Iris Knobloch, Thierry Frémaux and the entire festival team send Barbra Streisand their warmest wishes for a prompt recovery,” the festival said in a press release.

Streisand is the third recipient of a Cannes honorary Palme d’Or this year, alongside “Lord of the Rings” filmmaker Peter Jackson and John Travolta, who premiered his directorial debut “Propeller One-Way Night Coach” at the fest.

Travolta was surprised with the prestigious award before the screening, which prompted a teary emotional reaction from the star of Grease and Pulp Fiction (which won the 1994 Palme d’Or).

“This is beyond the Oscar,” Travolta said through tears. “I can’t believe this. This is the last thing I expected.”

The Cannes closing ceremony, which will reveal the winner of the prestigious Palme d’Or for best film, will take place at 8:15 p.m. CET on May 23.

Cannes Fim Fest 2026: Streisand, Palme d’Or Honoree, to Miss Ceremony

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