During the 2026 Academy Awards, Jane Fonda made a lighthearted comment that caught the attention of many when she questioned why Barbra Streisand was chosen to pay tribute to the late Robert Redford in the In Memoriam segment. Speaking candidly at an Oscars afterparty, Fonda expressed surprise that Streisand was the one to honour Redford, suggesting that she herself had a stronger claim to the tribute given her more extensive work with the iconic actor and filmmaker.
With a playful tone, Fonda remarked, “I want to know how come Streisand was up there doing that for Redford?” She then added with a chuckle that Streisand had only appeared in a single film alongside Redford, whereas Fonda had shared the screen with him in four different movies. “I made four. I have more to say,” she joked, underscoring her deeper professional connection to Redford and hinting at the many memories she could have shared during the ceremony.
At the Oscars ceremony itself, Barbra Streisand took the stage during the In Memoriam segment to honour Robert Redford, who passed away in September 2025 at the age of 89. Streisand and Redford famously starred together in the classic film The Way We Were, and she paid a heartfelt tribute before performing the movie’s iconic theme song. Reflecting on their collaboration, Streisand described Redford as “a brilliant, subtle actor,” highlighting the respect and admiration she held for him.
Meanwhile, Jane Fonda, who had a long-standing friendship and professional relationship with Redford, also spoke warmly about the late star. Having co-starred with him in notable films such as Barefoot in the Park and Our Souls at Night, Fonda shared her personal affection for Redford, saying, “I was always in love with him,” and calling him “the most gorgeous human being.” Her remarks revealed the depth of their connection both on and off screen.
The bond between Fonda and Redford spanned several decades, making them one of Hollywood’s most memorable on-screen duos. Their collaborations left a lasting impact on audiences and contributed significantly to the golden era of American cinema. Following Redford’s passing, Fonda expressed profound sadness, describing him as “a beautiful person in every way” and praising his enduring influence on the film industry.
The 2026 Oscars In Memoriam segment paid tribute to many influential figures from the entertainment world, with Robert Redford standing out as one of the most celebrated individuals remembered during the ceremony. The moment underscored the legacy Redford left behind, not only as an actor and director but as a beloved figure whose work touched countless lives. Jane Fonda’s playful remarks after the event added a human and relatable dimension to the tribute, reminding audiences of the personal connections behind Hollywood’s legendary stories.
