Barbra Streisand Remembers Robert Redford A True Cinematic Enigma
Barbra Streisand will forever cherish her recollections of Robert Redford and their film, The Way We Were.
It was reported on September 16, 2025, that Redford passed away peacefully in his sleep, aged 89, at his residence in Utah. No official reason for his passing was disclosed at that point.
Within hours of the Oscar-honored actor and filmmaker’s passing being verified by his spokesperson, Streisand utilized Instagram to honor her fellow cast member from The Way We Were, posting a vintage monochrome picture from the 1973 romantic drama.
“Each day spent filming The Way We Were brought excitement, intensity, and sheer delight,” she reminisced. “Our personalities were so contrasting: he hailed from an equestrian background; I, conversely, had allergies to horses! Still, we continually sought to understand one another better, mirroring the dynamic of our on-screen roles. Bob possessed charisma, intellect, intensity, was perpetually engaging — and stood among the greatest actors of all time.”
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Streisand further stated, “During our final encounter, when he visited for lunch, we conversed about art and resolved to exchange our initial artistic sketches. He truly was exceptional, and I am incredibly thankful for the chance to have collaborated with him.”
This heartfelt remembrance from Streisand marked not her inaugural occasion expressing admiration for Redford.
Continue reading to discover all that the star of Funny Girl shared regarding Redford prior to his passing:
What Drew Barbra Streisand to Robert Redford
Within her 2023 autobiography, My Name Is Barbra, Streisand revealed her thoughts on Redford’s portrayal in his 1967 breakthrough movie, Barefoot in the Sand, describing it as “a pleasant comedy where he performed adequately.” Nevertheless, she recognized his significant promise in the 1966 picture This Property Is Condemned, helmed by Sydney Pollack. (Pollack would later direct The Way We Were in 1973.)
“I perceived a depth of thought behind those brilliant blue eyes,” Streisand penned concerning Redford, further noting that she was “attracted to him not solely for his looks … men with fair hair and light eyes were typically not my preference. I did consider him exceptionally good-looking … possessing a striking jawline … excellent dental features. Yet, what captivated me most about Bob was his intricate nature. You can never fully discern his thoughts, which renders him compelling to observe cinematographically.”
Streisand went on to say, “Similar to the most esteemed film icons, Bob comprehends the impact of subtlety. He never reveals everything … and that constitutes his enigma … which compels you to continue watching him.”
Persuading Robert Redford to Participate in ‘The Way We Were’
Streisand recounted that Redford initially declined The Way We Were, believing his character, Hubbell Gardiner, lacked sufficient depth.
“According to Bob, he was ‘superficial and lacking complexity,’” Streisand clarified. “My desire was to satisfy Bob, so I instructed Sydney, ‘Grant him whatever he desires. Develop additional scenes to fortify his role. Ensure parity.’”
Despite Redford's continued refusal for the part, Streisand remained determined, and he eventually agreed. Their cinematic connection was undeniable.
“Bob and I held a sincere mutual interest, and I am convinced that this translates onto the screen,” she proceeded. “On one occasion, he inquired about Brooklyn. What was the experience of maturing in that borough? I surmise he perceived me as somewhat intriguing, but in my view, he was the fascinating one, having been raised in California. Did he ride waves? Engage in angling? Take a dip in the sea post-meal?”
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Robert Redford: The ‘Cerebral Frontiersman’
Streisand lauded Redford enthusiastically when bestowing upon him an honorary Academy Award in 2002.
“He consistently captivates. He consistently demonstrates curiosity. He is highly intelligent, deeply reserved,” she stated. “He projects confidence, yet possesses a quiet demeanor, and I cherished our collaboration. Robert Redford’s contributions as a performer, director, and producer consistently reflect his true essence—the scholar, the creative visionary, the frontiersman.”
Streisand further elaborated, “He possesses an ardor for narrating tales that embody both the resilience and frailties of the American psyche, our pursuit of our noblest aspirations, and even when we fall short, Robert Redford’s movies ensure that we honor the endeavor. From the outset of his career, Redford managed his own professional path, consistently collaborating intimately with screenwriters. His performances as an actor and his direction as a filmmaker are invariably artfully nuanced, understated, yet profoundly moving.”
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Robert Redford and Barbra Streisand’s Inaugural Day Filming ‘The Way We Were’
During her presentation of the Film Society of Lincoln Center’s Chaplin Award to Redford in 2015, Streisand recounted their initial day on the set of The Way They Were.
“[On their first day of shooting] I overheard the crew exclaiming my memorable introductory words from Funny Girl: ‘Hello, gorgeous.’ Initially, I felt delighted and honored … only to then become quite vexed when I realized they were addressing Bob,” she quipped.
