Overview
Defining herself as an "actress who sings," the multitalented Barbra Streisand could fill pages in the record books of the film, theater, television, and music industries.One of the most versatile entertainers of the 20th century, Streisand began her rise to fame in 1964, when her first album won two Grammy Awards. But her success transcended the recording studio: she received a Tony nomination for her first theater performance, and as Fanny Brice in the 1968 movie Funny Girl, Streisand won her first Oscar, sharing the award for Best Actress with the legendary Katherine Hepburn.
In an industry historically dominated by men, Streisand has forged a path for women in nearly every field. Her film credits include megahits such as The Way We Were, Yentl, and The Prince of Tides. She is the only person who has ever received Oscars for both acting and songwriting, the first woman to be nominated for Best Director by the Director's Guild, and the first woman to write, produce, direct, and star in a major motion picture. Streisand also achieved the remarkable triple play of winning a Grammy for her first album, an Emmy for her first television special, and an Oscar for her first film role.
While accepting the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 1995 Grammys, Barbra Streisand declared that she prefers to consider her career a "work in progress." A consummate professional, Streisand will continue to do what she does best in any medium -- create.