The 98th Academy Awards included a touching tribute to legendary actor Robert Redford, who passed away in September of the previous year at the age of 89. During the ceremony’s emotional “In Memoriam” segment at the Dolby Theatre, longtime friend and co-star Barbra Streisand stepped onto the stage to honor his memory. Dressed in a simple black gown, she shared heartfelt stories about their friendship and the playful connection they had maintained over the years. Streisand recalled how Redford often affectionately called her “Babs,” a nickname she used to jokingly protest. Despite her playful objections, she admitted the way he said it always made her smile. The audience listened quietly as she described their conversations about art, politics, and shared interests that kept their bond strong long after they first worked together. Their collaboration in the classic film The Way We Were remains one of Hollywood’s most beloved partnerships, and her memories reminded viewers of the warmth and respect the two stars shared throughout their lives.

Streisand also revealed the emotional final message she wrote to Redford before his passing, a note inspired by one of their last phone conversations. She shared that during the call he told her, “I love you dearly, and I always will,” words that stayed with her deeply. When she later wrote her final note to him, she responded with the same affection, signing it simply as “Babs.” Describing Redford as both thoughtful and courageous, she praised him as an “intellectual cowboy” who followed his own path in Hollywood. To close the tribute, Streisand performed a powerful rendition of the title song from The Way We Were, the Oscar-winning song from the 1973 film that the two actors famously starred in together. The emotional performance filled the theater with quiet reflection, reminding audiences of Redford’s lasting influence on cinema and the enduring friendship he shared with Streisand.