“My Name is Barbra” is everything you would want from a memoir by iconic singer, actress, and director Barbra Streisand.
In a candid revelation of her personal journey, Streisand, 81, delves into her life in the newly released memoir.
Within its pages, Streisand hopes to dispel the myths that have long circulated about her, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the life of one of Hollywood’s most enduring stars.
The 970-page book, which Streisand tells CBS News’ Gayle King, in an interview on November 6, was prompted by her editor’s insistence on vulnerability, covers the multifaceted artist’s illustrious career and personal reflections. Despite her initial hesitation, Streisand opens up about her romantic involvements with figures like actors Don Johnson and Ryan O’Neal, tennis legend Andre Agassi, and former Canadian prime minister Pierre Trudeau. These disclosures are part of a broader narrative aimed at setting the record straight.
With a 25-year marriage to James Brolin, Streisand admits that the exploration of past relationships was not her voluntary choice. “Listen, I didn’t want to write about any of them,” Streisand says, indicating her preference to avoid such personal details. Yet, her editor encouraged her, “You have to leave some blood on the page!” which led to the inclusion of these narratives.
In a dedicated chapter, the book explores her enduring friendship with actor Marlon Brando, who expressed strong romantic interest in her both before and after her divorce from Elliot Gould in 1971.
Reflecting on the past, Streisand expresses disbelief at her own response to Brando’s advances, describing it as foolish. She admits that she would approach the situation differently now, expressing a greater willingness for a romantic adventure. However, at the time, she felt sexually insecure, still embodying the values of a nice Jewish girl from Brooklyn with her mother’s warnings echoing in her mind. She clarifies that free love was not a concept she adhered to.
During her sit-down with King, Streisand also reflects on the emotional landscape of her childhood, including being “angry” about the loss of her father at the young age of one and her mother’s emotional distance. The conversation with King also highlighted Streisand’s self-perception, “I don’t think of myself as a famous person, I just don’t. I’m the same Barbra Joan Streisand as I was in high school.”
Beyond the personal, Streisand shares her passion for directing, describing it as a fulfilling endeavor that engages her vision and creativity across disciplines. Her enthusiasm for this aspect of her career is palpable as she discusses the joys of helping actors bring performances to life.
The memoir has attracted attention from various media outlets, with the New York Times and USA Today among the publications offering praise. Described as exuberant, glorious, sharp, and refreshingly candid, “My Name Is Barbra” chronicles Streisand’s experiences from her Broadway beginnings to her established status in the pantheon of entertainment.
Her relationships with other notable personalities such as Warren Beatty, Omar Sharif and Kris Kristofferson are also discussed, illustrating the breadth of Streisand’s personal and professional associations over the years.
The release of “My Name Is Barbra” is seen as an act of storytelling authority, where Streisand asserts control over her own narrative. It’s a retort to the often-speculative nature of fame and the stories spun by others outside of the limelight’s inner circle.
Reviews have characterized the memoir as an account filled with scintillating tales, covering Streisand’s storied romances and friendships with high-profile figures. Furthermore, the book goes beyond the glamour to touch on the rumors and false stories that have been printed about her in magazines throughout her six-decade career.
The memoir is currently available for purchase, and it is positioned to be an essential read for fans and those interested in the entertainment industry’s history through the lens of one of its most enduring figures.