Barbra Streisand speaking at a public event
Awards & Red Carpet

Barbra Streisand Slams Donald Trump Over Threat to Tear Down Kennedy Center

The legendary entertainer called out the former president's 'unchecked ego' amid an ongoing battle over the iconic venue.

By Rae MitchellPublished Updated 2 min read

Barbra Streisand is refusing to stay quiet when it comes to defending one of the nation's most historic cultural landmarks. The legendary Oscar winner released a sharp, passionate statement targeting Donald Trump after reports surfaced that he suggested demolishing the Kennedy Center during a bitter battle over building rights. The iconic singer and screen legend published an extended letter on her official website to address the high-profile controversy directly. In her message, Streisand expressed deep indignity over seeing the world-renowned Washington, D.C. performing arts complex dragged into a fight, placing the blame squarely on what she described as Trump's unchecked ego. The ongoing legal fight stems from attempts to mount Trump's name across the exterior of the historic facility. When those efforts hit significant legal roadblocks, Trump reportedly pushed back by suggesting the entire structure could be ripped down if he was not permitted to alter the landmark to his liking.

Why did barbra streisand defend the kennedy center

Streisand holds a deeply personal connection to the revered institution. The multi-hyphenate star was formally recognized at the venue during the 31st annual Kennedy Center Honors in 2008, cementing her long-standing relationship with the organization. In her missive, she mapped out the history of the building, reminding readers that it was erected as a memorial to President John F. Kennedy. She pointed out that the complex was specifically designed to advance Kennedy's belief that artistic achievement is definitive proof of a free society. According to Streisand, whenever the creative impulse is prevented from flourishing freely, a nation loses its fundamental vitality and cultural strength.

Barbra Streisand and Donald Trump in the story: Barbra Streisand Slams Donald Trump Over Threat to Tear Down Kennedy Center
Barbra Streisand and Donald Trump in the story: Barbra Streisand Slams Donald Trump Over Threat to Tear Down Kennedy Center

How did barbra streisand react to trump threats

The Hollywood titan ultimately turned her personal outrage into an urgent call to action for her followers and the American public at large. Rather than focusing solely on the dispute over the landmark, Streisand emphasized that safeguarding national treasures requires direct civic engagement from everyday citizens. She urged Americans across the country to exercise their fundamental right to vote during the upcoming midterm elections in November. For Streisand, turning out at the ballot box remains the ultimate defense against political overreach and individual ego threatening beloved national treasures.

The photos · 2

Barbra Streisand speaking at a public event
Barbra Streisand and Donald Trump in the story: Barbra Streisand Slams Donald Trump Over Threat to Tear Down Kennedy Center

The backstory

Verified moments, in order.

Barbra Streisand: The Career, the Clout and the Political Fights

Broadway makes her a star. Hollywood gives her power behind the camera. Along the way, Streisand becomes a Democratic fundraiser, a Kennedy Center honoree and a vocal Trump critic.

  1. Funny Girl puts her center stage

    Barbra Streisand — Funny Girl puts her center stage

    Streisand originates the role of Fanny Brice in Broadway’s Funny Girl. Her performance earns a Tony nomination and establishes the signature role she will take to the screen.

  2. Her first film brings an Oscar

    Barbra Streisand — Her first film brings an Oscar

    Streisand wins best actress for her screen debut in the 1968 film Funny Girl. In a rare tie, she shares the award with Katharine Hepburn, who wins for The Lion in Winter. The Broadway headliner now has Hollywood’s top acting prize.

  3. Yentl breaks a directing barrier

    Barbra Streisand — Yentl breaks a directing barrier

    After directing, co-writing, producing and starring in the 1983 film Yentl, Streisand becomes the first woman to win the Golden Globe for best director. The project puts her authority behind the camera on the awards record.

  4. Flashpoint

    A privacy lawsuit backfires

    Barbra Streisand — A privacy lawsuit backfires

    Streisand files a $50 million lawsuit over an aerial photograph showing her Malibu home, taken as part of a California coastline documentation project. A judge dismisses the case. The publicity surrounding her effort to suppress the image later gives rise to the term Streisand effect.

  5. The Kennedy Center honors her

    Barbra Streisand — The Kennedy Center honors her

    Streisand receives a Kennedy Center Honor alongside Morgan Freeman, George Jones, Twyla Tharp and Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey. The recognition gives her a direct place in the institution’s history, beyond her standing as a performer.

  6. She sings for Clinton’s campaign

    Barbra Streisand — She sings for Clinton’s campaign

    Streisand performs at a New York fundraiser for Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign. Her support puts her celebrity and fundraising pull behind the Democratic nominee running against Donald Trump.

  7. Flashpoint

    Trump becomes a musical target

    Barbra Streisand — Trump becomes a musical target

    Streisand releases Walls, an album shaped by her opposition to Trump’s presidency. Its single Don’t Lie to Me takes aim at his dishonesty, carrying her political criticism into her recording career.

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People also ask

Why is Barbra Streisand criticizing Donald Trump?
Barbra Streisand spoke out against Donald Trump after reports surfaced that he threatened to demolish the Kennedy Center during a legal fight to add his name to the building.
When was Barbra Streisand recognized at the Kennedy Center Honors?
Barbra Streisand was honored at the landmark performing arts center during the 31st annual Kennedy Center Honors in 2008.