Barbra Streisand has pulled out of attending the Cannes Film Festival closing gala due to a knee injury.
Barbra Streisand won’t be at the Cannes Film Festival
The legendary performer was due to accept an honorary Palme d’or at the event next weekend but doctors have advised against her travelling to France while she is focused on her recovery.
She said in a statement: “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.
“But I am deeply honoured to receive the Honorary Palme d’or and had so been looking forward to celebrating the remarkable films of the 79th edition. 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.”
It is unclear how Barbra suffered the injury or what the timeline is for her recovery.
Festival bosses also addressed the news, but the 84-year-old singer-and-actress will still be celebrated in her absence.
The honour recognises the iconic star’s decades‑long impact on film and music, from Funny Girl to her trailblazing work behind the camera.
Organisers said: “Iris Knobloch, Thierry Frémaux and the entire festival team send Barbra Streisand their warmest wishes for a prompt recovery.”
In receiving the award, Barbra follows in the footsteps of the likes of Jodie Foster, Meryl Streep, Robert De Niro and Tom Cruise and organisers previously praised her as a “dazzling actress, an unparalleled singer, a force of nature, humour, and sensuality.”
Director Sir Peter Jackson and Grease actor John Travolta were also recipients of honorary Palme d’Or awards at this year’s festival.
John was surprised by his award before the screening of his directorial debut Propeller One-Way Night Coach.
He tearfully said: “This is beyond the Oscar. I can’t believe this. This is the last thing I expected.”
