“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,” she said.
For an artist whose career has moved across music, film, theatre and directing, the Cannes recognition is not exactly a small plaque in a hotel ballroom. It is one of the film world’s most visible career honours.
The festival will still honour her work
Streisand said she regretted not being able to attend in person, but used the statement to praise the filmmakers being recognised at Cannes this year.
“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,” she said.
She continued: “My heartfelt thanks to the festival, and to everyone who continues to support and champion the art of cinema.”
Despite her absence, Cannes organisers still plan to celebrate Streisand during the closing ceremony later this week at the Grand Théâtre Lumière.
The festival also sent its own public message of support. “Iris Knobloch, Thierry Frémaux and the entire festival team send Barbra Streisand their warmest wishes for a prompt recovery,” the statement said.
It is a practical disappointment, but also a reminder that even legendary careers occasionally have to negotiate with knees. Knees are famously not impressed by lifetime achievement awards.
Other honorary Palme d’Or winners this year
Streisand is one of three figures selected for honorary Palme d’Or recognition at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival.
Peter Jackson, the director best known for The Lord of the Rings films, has already received one of this year’s honorary awards.
John Travolta has also been honoured during the festival. The 72-year-old Grease star appeared emotional when he received his award while presenting his directorial debut at Cannes.
Travolta’s film, Propeller One-Way Night Coach, is adapted from his own 1997 children’s book of the same name. He described the project as “the most personal thing I’ve ever done.”
Festival director Thierry Frémaux then surprised Travolta with the lifetime achievement honour. Travolta, wearing a dark suit and cream beret that naturally gave the internet something to do, responded: “This is beyond the Oscar.”
For Streisand, the celebration will now happen without her in the room. The honour still stands, and so does the affection around it, even if the travel plans had to be cancelled.
