Barbra Streisand’s Love Life: Husbands, Romances, and Affairs Revealed
A behind-the-scenes look at her headline-making marriages and celebrity associations.
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Barbra Streisand is not only a living legend of music, stage, and film but also a figure whose personal life has captivated public fascination for decades. From two notable marriages to a host of high-profile romances and rumored affairs, Streisand continues to intrigue fans and headline gossip columns. This article takes a comprehensive look at the men who have shared a connection—public or private—with the one and only Barbra Streisand.
Barbra Streisand’s Husbands
- Elliott Gould: Married 1963–1971
- James Brolin: Married 1998–Present
Streisand’s journey through love and marriage began early in her career and continues today with an enduring union. Her two husbands are both accomplished actors, but each relationship marked distinct chapters in her extraordinary life.
Marriage to Elliott Gould
Barbra Streisand married actor Elliott Gould in 1963. Both were young and on the cusp of fame—she on Broadway and he as a notable actor. Their partnership produced one child, Jason Gould, and lasted until their separation in 1969; their divorce was finalized in 1971. Despite their eventual split, Streisand and Gould maintained a cordial rapport, particularly for the benefit of their son. Gould has often spoken fondly about Streisand, recalling their early days in the entertainment industry and noting how their mutual ambition sometimes overshadowed their relationship. During their marriage, Streisand’s rapid rise to stardom with Funny Girl and other projects brought challenges but also enduring connections.
| Husband | Married | Divorced | Children |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elliott Gould | 1963 | 1971 | Jason Gould |
| James Brolin | 1998 | – | None (Stepchildren: Josh Brolin, Jess Brolin, Molly Elizabeth Brolin) |
Barbra Streisand’s Enduring Marriage to James Brolin
Barbra Streisand found her greatest romantic stability with fellow actor James Brolin. The two met in 1996 at a dinner party arranged by a mutual friend. Despite a mutual wariness about being set up, their chemistry was instant. Streisand and Brolin swiftly fell in love, leading to an engagement in May 1998 and a lavish Malibu wedding on July 1, 1998. The ceremony boasted a star-studded guest list and signaled the beginning of a rock-solid partnership.
Brolin, known for roles in Marcus Welby, M.D., Hotel, and films like Capricorn One, brought his own set of experiences to the marriage. This union, which has lasted over two decades, is widely seen as one of Hollywood’s most stable relationships—a rarity in the industry. While Streisand has no children with Brolin, she is stepmother to his three children from previous marriages, including actor Josh Brolin.
Barbra Streisand’s High-Profile Romances
Between and during her marriages, Barbra Streisand’s charisma and talent attracted numerous high-profile men. Some relationships were brief yet passionate, while others developed into long-lasting friendships or sparked rumors that linger to this day. Here’s an exploration of Streisand’s most notable lovers and rumored affairs across six decades.
1960s Romances and Rumors
- Joe Namath: Legendary football star reportedly linked with Streisand in the 1960s.
- Omar Sharif: Her co-star in Funny Girl. Stories suggest an affair during filming, even while Streisand was married to Gould, fueling tabloid headlines.
The Jon Peters Years (1973–1982)
After her separation from Gould, Streisand entered a highly public relationship with film producer and hairdresser Jon Peters. Their romance spanned most of the 1970s, coinciding with her creative directorial ambitions. Peters served as a significant influence in Streisand’s life, supporting her during projects like A Star Is Born. Their dynamic, at times volatile, ended in the early 1980s but left an indelible mark on both their personal and professional trajectories.
Linked On-Set and in the Limelight
- Kris Kristofferson: While filming A Star Is Born in the mid-1970s, Streisand and Kristofferson were rumored to have developed a close emotional—and possibly romantic—bond, even as she was involved with Peters.
- Robert Redford: Their undeniable chemistry on The Way We Were led to both parties admitting a mutual attraction, though no confirmed affair.
- Ryan O’Neal: Brief fling rumored after their collaboration on What’s Up, Doc?
- Warren Beatty: Reports of a short-lived tryst in the 1970s, with both stars later speaking candidly about the experience.
- Pierre Trudeau: Streisand was linked to the charismatic Canadian Prime Minister (and father of Justin Trudeau) after her split from Gould.
1980s Encounters and Relationships
- Richard Gere: Alleged romance from 1980–1983, the pair often seen together in public.
- Richard Baskin: Producer and songwriter, involved with Streisand through much of the 1980s.
- Clint Eastwood: Brief dating rumors in 1989.
Late 1980s to Early 1990s: From Don Johnson to Andre Agassi
- Don Johnson: The actor and musician dated Streisand from late 1987 into 1988. They recorded the duet “Till I Loved You” together, blending personal and professional lives.
- James Newton Howard: The Oscar-nominated composer was Streisand’s partner from 1989 to 1991.
- Peter Jennings: ABC news anchor; relationship rumored in the early 1990s.
- Liam Neeson, Jon Voight, Peter Weller: Each of these actors has been briefly linked to Streisand in romantic reports and gossip columns.
- Andre Agassi: The tennis champion and Streisand’s relationship in 1992–1993 drew headlines, particularly due to their nearly three-decade age difference. Agassi referred to their affair as “forbidden” and credited her with vital support during his career lows. Their friendship has continued long after their romantic relationship ended.
Other Notable Relationships and Flings
- Dodi Fayed: Brief encounter with the film producer, best known for his later relationship with Princess Diana.
- Barry Gibb: Bee Gees star linked professionally and personally to Streisand, especially during collaboration on her album Guilty.
- King Charles III: Streisand is rumored to have been a fascination for the future British monarch, with stories about possible meetings and flirtations.
- Bill Clinton: Exchanged correspondence and rumored to have shared an encounter during his presidency.
- Sydney Chaplin, George Lazenby, Anthony Newley, Steve McQueen: Brief associations reported sporadically in entertainment media, adding intrigue to Streisand’s romantic lore.
Barbra Streisand’s Approach to Love and Relationships
Throughout her romantic journey, Barbra Streisand has exemplified resilience, openness, and candor—both in her private relationships and public statements. She has frequently acknowledged how love, heartache, and self-discovery have influenced not only her personal evolution but also her artistry. Her ability to remain amicable with past lovers and maintain lasting friendships reveals her emotional intelligence and loyalty.
Her relationship with James Brolin stands as a testament to enduring romance and partnership—one that defies the turbulence often found in Hollywood. Streisand credits “divine timing” for meeting Brolin and believes her experiences with love, both joyful and painful, contributed to her readiness for a lasting bond. Their marriage is marked by mutual respect, humor, and an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many times has Barbra Streisand been married?
Barbra Streisand has been married twice—first to Elliott Gould and, since 1998, to James Brolin.
Does Barbra Streisand have children?
She has one biological son, Jason Gould, with her first husband, Elliott Gould. Streisand is also stepmother to Brolin’s children from previous marriages.
Which celebrities has Streisand been romantically linked to?
Among many, some of the most high-profile names include Jon Peters, Andre Agassi, Don Johnson, Kris Kristofferson, and Pierre Trudeau, as well as rumored connections to Robert Redford, Warren Beatty, and Ryan O’Neal.
Did Barbra Streisand date Robert Redford?
No definitive evidence confirms a romantic relationship, but both Streisand and Redford have admitted to mutual attraction while working on The Way We Were.
Is Barbra Streisand still married to James Brolin?
Yes. As of 2025, Barbra Streisand and James Brolin remain happily married and often credit their success to a blend of patience, communication, and humor.
Timeline: Barbra Streisand’s Romantic Relationships
- 1961: Tom Smothers (rumored)
- 1963–1971: Elliott Gould (marriage)
- Mid-1960s: Joe Namath (rumored)
- 1967–1968: Omar Sharif (rumored)
- 1970–1971: Pierre Trudeau
- 1972: Ryan O’Neal
- 1973–1982: Jon Peters
- Mid-1970s: Kris Kristofferson (rumored)
- 1980–1983: Richard Gere
- 1983–1987: Richard Baskin
- 1987–1988: Don Johnson
- 1989: Clint Eastwood (rumored)
- 1989–1991: James Newton Howard
- 1991–1992: Liam Neeson
- 1992–1993: Andre Agassi
- 1994: King Charles III (rumored)
- 1994–1995: Jon Voight
- 1994–1998: Peter Jennings
- 1996–present: James Brolin (marriage)
Barbra Streisand: Legacy Beyond Romance
Barbra Streisand’s romantic history is inseparable from her stardom, coloring her music, performances, and even her activism and philanthropy. Her honest reflections about love, heartbreak, and self-acceptance have resonated through her songs and public appearances, making her an icon who transcends the boundaries of profession and persona. From whimsical flings to enduring partnership, Streisand’s story is a testament to the complexity and richness of the human heart.
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