Barbra Streisand, the legendary EGOT-winning artist, has graced us with her recently released memoir, “My Name Is Barbra,” offering an unvarnished glimpse into her remarkable life. The 81-year-old diva, known for her Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards, holds nothing back as she shares her experiences, struggles, and the many colorful characters that have crossed her path.
Streisand’s memoir opens with a striking revelation, recounting the early days of her career when she was described as an “amiable anteater” in one of her first professional reviews as an actress. She humorously acknowledges that this was just the beginning of the demeaning comparisons she would face throughout her journey. From being likened to a “sour persimmon” to a “seasick ferret,” Streisand’s resilience shines through as she embraces her uniqueness.
With nearly 1,000 pages, “My Name Is Barbra” is an epic literary endeavor that rivals even “War and Peace.” Within its pages, Streisand name-drops with unparalleled enthusiasm, sharing anecdotes about her friendships with luminaries like Bill and Hillary Clinton, Warren Beatty, Stephen Sondheim, Larry Kramer, and Sydney Chaplin. The memoir is a treasure trove of juicy stories and revelations.
In her memoir, Streisand unapologetically delves into her personal encounters and relationships. Her frankness extends to her interactions with Warren Beatty, where she humorously ponders if they had ever crossed that intimate line. The book reveals her strength in facing adversity, as seen in her struggle against Sidney Chaplin’s persistent advances, which triggered her first experience with stage fright.
While “My Name Is Barbra” is a sprawling narrative, its length is a testament to Streisand’s exceptional life and career. It is a testament to a legacy earned through talent, tenacity, and fearlessness. Her memoir is a chance to savor an intimate conversation with Streisand, complete with her signature wit and charm.
A Connection with the LGBTQ+ Community
Throughout her memoir, Streisand’s bond with the LGBTQ+ community is a recurring theme. She acknowledges the pivotal role of queer audiences in her early career, recalling performances at gay bars like the Lion and the Bon Soir in New York. Streisand underscores the shared human desires for happiness, love, and respect, regardless of sexual orientation, stating, “No one should have to live a lie.”
Her allyship is further highlighted by her role as an executive producer of “Serving in Silence: The Margarethe Cammermeyer Story,” a 1995 TV movie depicting the story of an Army nurse discharged because of her sexual orientation. However, Streisand’s journey has not been without its conflicts with other LGBTQ+ icons, as seen in her differing vision for the film adaptation of Larry Kramer’s “The Normal Heart.”
Barbra Streisand’s memoir, “My Name Is Barbra,” offers an immersive and heartfelt experience, allowing readers to connect with the diva on a personal level. Whether you’re a devoted fan, an outsider, or simply curious about the life of an icon, this memoir is a captivating journey into the world of the one and only Barbra Streisand.