Barbra Streisand has had a remarkably successful career, and at 80, the Brooklyn native continues to shine as an actor, producer, and singer.
Her impressive accomplishments have solidified her status as the most successful female recording artist of all time, earning her numerous prestigious awards along the way.
In her personal life, Streisand’s journey has also been a success story. She has been happily married to her second husband, James Brolin, since 1998, and their enduring romance thrives in their spacious home, allowing them plenty of personal space.
Let’s take a closer look at Barbra Streisand’s life and her stunning home. Born on April 24, 1942, in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, she faced tragedy early on when her father passed away from complications related to epilepsy when she was just 15 months old. Her mother, Diana, later remarried, but Barbra felt that her stepfather didn’t like her. Determined to carve her own path, she discovered her singing talent at a young age, gaining recognition as “the kid with the good voice.”
Reflecting on her childhood, Barbra once told Oprah, “I was kind of a wild child… I could never sit still at a table.” She often ate alone, learning to fend for herself in a challenging environment. Despite her mother’s reservations about her pursuing show business, Barbra was undeterred.
She joined the school chorus at Bais Yakov School, where she met Neil Diamond, a future collaborator. At 15, Barbra’s life changed when she began working at the Cherry Lane Theater in Greenwich Village, where she was mentored by Anita and Alan Miller. In exchange for babysitting, she received a scholarship to an acting academy.
After graduating from Erasmus Hall High School in 1959, Barbra moved to New York City, intending to act. Initially, she took a job as a clerk while attending acting classes at night. During this time, she discovered her singing voice while working at the firm, despite her boss’s frequent reminders to stop humming.
Her big break came in 1962 when she debuted on Broadway in I Can Get It for You Wholesale, earning a New York Drama Critics Award and a Tony nomination. Following a standing ovation after her first performance, her salary doubled overnight.
With her incredible stage presence and powerful voice, Barbra quickly gained popularity. She released her first studio album, The Barbra Streisand Album, after signing with Columbia Records later that year, solidifying her place in the music industry.
