Jane Fonda Expresses Surprise Over Barbra Streisand's Role in Robert Redford's Oscars Tribute
Jane Fonda has publicly questioned why Barbra Streisand was chosen to deliver the in memoriam tribute for Robert Redford at the 2026 Academy Awards, rather than herself. Speaking on the red carpet at a post-Oscars party, Fonda playfully remarked to a reporter, "I want to know how come Streisand was up there doing that for Redford?" She added, "She only made one movie with him, I made four ... I have more to say."
Streisand's Tribute Highlights Redford's Legacy
Barbra Streisand's tribute was one of three extended segments in the Oscars' in memoriam section, alongside those for Rob Reiner and Diane Keaton. Streisand, who co-starred with Redford in the 1973 film The Way We Were, sang the title track from the stage and shared personal memories. She recalled his initial hesitation about the role and praised his integrity, stating, "Bob had real backbone on and off the screen." Streisand also highlighted Redford's advocacy for press freedom, environmental protection, and support for new filmmakers through his Sundance Institute.
Fonda's Deep Connection to Redford
Jane Fonda, now 88, worked with Robert Redford on four films: The Chase (1966), Barefoot in the Park (1967), The Electric Horseman (1979), and Our Souls at Night (2017). After Redford's death in October 2025, Fonda posted on Instagram, "I can't stop crying. He meant a lot to me and was a beautiful person in every way. He stood for an America we have to keep fighting for." Reflecting on their relationship, she said, "I was always in love with him. The most gorgeous human being and such great values. And he did a lot for movies, he really changed movies, lifted up independent movies."
Oscars In Memoriam Segment Draws Attention
The 2026 Oscars in memoriam segment featured extended tributes to Redford, Reiner, and Keaton, while also remembering other notable figures like Robert Duvall and Terence Stamp. However, the segment faced criticism for omitting stars such as Brigitte Bardot and Bud Cort, reigniting debates about the Academy's selection process for these tributes. The ceremony, held on 15 March, included the Vanity Fair Oscar party, where Fonda was photographed arriving, adding to the evening's star-studded atmosphere.
