Jane Fonda Shades ‘Reclusive’ Barbra Streisand’s Emotional Oscars Tribute to Robert Redford — ‘She Only Made One Movie With Him, I Made Four’

Jane Fonda Criticizes Barbra Streisand’s Oscars Tribute to Robert Redford

At the 2026 Oscars ceremony, Barbra Streisand delivered a heartfelt tribute to the late Robert Redford, recalling their collaboration in the 1973 classic *The Way We Were* and their enduring friendship. However, this emotional moment sparked controversy, especially with Jane Fonda, who openly expressed her displeasure with Streisand’s role in honoring Redford.

Streisand, 83, took the stage on March 15 to share personal anecdotes about Redford, including how she convinced him to star in *The Way We Were* and their close bond over the years. She even performed the film’s iconic theme song, moving many viewers. Yet, Fonda, 88, who shared a much longer and deeper professional relationship with Redford, was left feeling sidelined and frustrated.

“I want to know how come Streisand was up there doing that for Redford. She only made one movie with him. I made four,” Fonda remarked during an interview at the Vanity Fair Oscars party, emphasizing her closer connection with the late actor.

Jane Fonda’s Longstanding Relationship with Robert Redford

Jane Fonda’s friendship and professional partnership with Robert Redford spanned over six decades. They co-starred in four films together: *The Chase* (1966), *Barefoot in the Park* (1967), *The Electric Horseman* (1979), and *Our Souls at Night* (2017). This extensive collaboration gave Fonda a unique insight into Redford’s character, both on and off screen.

When asked about her feelings toward Redford, Fonda didn’t hold back her admiration. “I was always in love with him,” she confessed, praising Redford as “the most gorgeous human being” with “great values.” She also credited him with making a significant impact on the film industry, especially in uplifting independent cinema.

Redford’s death on September 16, 2025, at the age of 89, was a profound loss for Fonda. She revealed that she “couldn’t stop crying” upon hearing the news, underscoring the deep emotional bond they shared. “He meant a lot to me and was a beautiful person in every way,” she said, highlighting his embodiment of ideals worth fighting for.

Barbra Streisand’s Rare Oscars Appearance and Emotional Tribute

Barbra Streisand’s appearance at the Oscars was notable not only because she is famously reclusive but also because she chose to make the tribute to Redford intensely personal. She recounted how she personally persuaded Redford to accept the role of Hubbell in *The Way We Were*, despite his initial reservations about the character’s lack of backbone.

“After I read the first script for *The Way We Were*, I could only imagine one man in the role of Hubbell, and that was Robert Redford,” Streisand shared. She explained that Redford initially declined the part, feeling the character didn’t stand for anything. After several script revisions, Redford agreed to take the role, and the film went on to become a classic love story.

Streisand also reminisced about their playful friendship, recalling how Redford affectionately called her “Babs,” a nickname she found amusing. She shared a touching moment from one of their last phone conversations, where Redford expressed his enduring affection for her. Streisand closed her tribute with a rare vocal performance of *The Way We Were*’s theme song, bringing many viewers to tears.

Mixed Reactions from Fans and Critics

While some audience members were moved by Streisand’s tribute, others criticized it for seeming self-centered. Comments on social media accused her of making the *In Memoriam* segment about herself rather than focusing solely on Redford’s legacy.

One viewer wrote, “Bringing her out, IMO, having her sing & then saying thank you thank you, made it about her.” Another added, “*In Memoriam* to focus on yourself. Complete cringe and very distracting.” These reactions highlight the delicate balance required when honoring a beloved figure in public ceremonies.

Conclusion

Jane Fonda’s candid remarks about Barbra Streisand’s Oscars tribute to Robert Redford reveal the complexities behind Hollywood relationships and public memorials. While Streisand’s emotional performance touched many, Fonda’s deeper connection with Redford and her desire to honor his legacy in her own way resonate strongly with fans who admired the late actor’s impact on film and culture.

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