Barbra Streisand is missing out on a career milestone. The legendary actress-singer won't be attending this year's Cannes Film Festival closing ceremony on May 23, where she was set to receive an Honorary Palme d'Or — the first time in her career she's been honoured at the festival.
A knee injury is to blame for the absence. Streisand announced the news herself over the weekend, revealing doctors advised her to sit this one out while she recovers.
"On the advice of my doctors, as I continue recovering from a knee injury, I am sadly unable to attend the Festival de Cannes this year," she said in a statement. "But I am deeply honored to receive the Honorary Palme d'Or and had so been looking forward to celebrating the remarkable films of the 79th edition."
This Cannes appearance would have marked Streisand's festival debut — she's never attended the Riviera event, despite decades of filmmaking credentials.
Cannes organisers have pledged to go ahead with a full tribute to the icon during the closing ceremony, even in her absence. Streisand also sent her warmest congratulations to the filmmakers being celebrated this year.
"I was also very much looking forward to spending time with colleagues whom I so admire – and, of course, returning to France, a place I have always loved," she added. "While I regret that I can't be there in person, I want to extend my warmest congratulations to all of the filmmakers from around the world."
The Cannes Film Festival's 79th edition closes May 23.
