Barbra Streisand, an iconic figure in the music industry, faced a unique challenge during the Emmy Awards in November 2001. While she celebrated a personal Triumph by winning the Primetime Emmy for outstanding individual performance in a variety or music program, she made a significant sacrifice for the greater good.
Background of the Emmy Award and Performance
Streisand received the nomination due to her performance in the 2000 PBS special “Barbra Streisand: Timeless.” This special was filmed live at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas during the New Year celebrations of 1999 into 2000. The renowned singer was 57 years old and displayed a captivating presence.
Competition at the Emmys
In her category, Streisand faced stiff competition from notable figures:
- Steve Martin (2001 Oscars Host)
- David Letterman (Late Show Host)
- Will Ferrell (Saturday Night Live Host)
- Ellen DeGeneres (HBO special)
- Wayne Brady (Whose Line Is It Anyway?)
Despite this formidable lineup, she emerged victorious. However, the atmosphere shifted dramatically after the tragic events of September 11, 2001.
Rescheduling of the Emmys
The Emmy Awards, originally set for September 16, 2001, faced delays due to the national crisis. They were rescheduled to October 7 and again to November 4, amid the War in Afghanistan. The location was changed from the Shrine Auditorium to the smaller Shubert Theater to accommodate heightened security measures.
Security Measures
Significant precautions were taken to ensure the safety of attendees, including:
- Deployment of sharpshooters on rooftops
- Metal detectors for attendees
- Closure of nearby businesses
- Blocking of underground parking levels to prevent car bomb threats
Streisand’s Acceptance Speech Sacrifice
During the awards ceremony, Streisand was present but chose not to accept her award on stage. In a moment of remarkable sacrifice, she did not want her acceptance speech to overshadow her poignant performance of “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” This was particularly significant given the national mourning.
Her performance featured a gospel choir and was dedicated to the victims of the 9/11 attacks. A backdrop displayed the message, “Our hearts are broken. Our spirit is not,” capturing the somber yet hopeful atmosphere that evening, which concluded with a standing ovation.
A Broader Context of Tribute
Streisand’s performance came just before Alan Jackson’s touching tribute at the Country Music Awards, demonstrating the art’s role in offering solace during tragic times. Gary Smith, the executive producer of the Emmy telecast, had a history of collaboration with Streisand. He passed away in 2025 at the age of 90.
Streisand’s Emmy Achievements
“Barbra Streisand: Timeless” won a total of four Emmy Awards, including one for Marvin Hamlisch for outstanding music direction. This marked the fifth time Streisand received an Emmy, following previous wins for:
- My Name Is Barbra (1965)
- Barbra Streisand: A Happening in Central Park (1969)
- Barbra Streisand…And Other Musical Instruments (1974)
- Barbra Streisand: The Concert (1995)
Streisand also released a concert album, “Timeless: Live in Concert,” on September 19, 2000, which peaked at No. 21 on the Billboard 200 chart.
Through her performance and sacrifices during this challenging time, Barbra Streisand not only highlighted her talents but also demonstrated her commitment to healing and hope in the face of national tragedy.
