Barbra Streisand has expressed her need for a substantial amount of money if she were to reprise her role in the ‘Meet the Fockers’ franchise. The legendary actress, known for her roles in the 2004 film ‘Meet the Fockers’ and its 2010 sequel ‘Little Fockers,’ revealed in a podcast that she was paid less than her co-stars for their performances. Streisand, now 83 years old, made these comments during an interview promoting her latest album, ‘The Secret of Life: Partners, Volume Two.’ She indicated that her compensation for the previous films did not match that of her fellow cast members.
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In the interview on Variety’s Just for Variety podcast, when asked about the possibility of her returning for the fourth installment of the ‘Meet the Parents’ series, Streisand responded, “Oh my God. They’d have to pay me a lot of money because I didn’t get paid what the other people got paid and so I’m pissed off.” The fourth film in the franchise is slated for release in 2026, and while Streisand has not confirmed her involvement, her remarks suggest that negotiations regarding her compensation would be a significant factor in her decision.
Streisand’s revelation sheds light on the longstanding issue of gender pay disparity in the entertainment industry. She recalled a bonus check she received from the head of Universal Pictures at the time, Ron Meyer, as a gesture of acknowledgment of the imbalance in compensation. However, the specific details of the pay gap between Streisand and her male counterparts were not disclosed, highlighting a broader pattern of unequal pay based on gender.
The actress previously disclosed her experience with pay inequity in her 2023 memoir ‘My Name Is Barbra,’ where she shared her disappointment upon discovering the disparity in her earnings compared to her male co-stars. She recounted feeling undervalued upon learning that one of her male counterparts was paid significantly more, despite their contributions to the success of the film. The issue of fair compensation for female talent in the entertainment industry remains a pertinent topic, prompting discussions on gender equality and transparency in pay negotiations.
Universal Pictures, the studio behind the ‘Meet the Parents’ franchise, has yet to respond to requests for comment on Streisand’s statements regarding her compensation. The series, known for its comedic portrayal of familial dynamics, has garnered a loyal fan base over the years, with audiences eager to see the beloved characters return for another installment. As discussions around the potential fourth film continue, Streisand’s remarks have sparked conversations about the importance of equitable pay practices in Hollywood.
Streisand’s impressive career spans decades, encompassing her roles as both an actress and a singer. While she has taken on fewer acting projects in recent years, her influence in the industry remains undeniable. The multi-talented artist continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, with her contributions to film and music enduring as part of her lasting legacy. As fans await further updates on the future of the ‘Meet the Parents’ franchise, Streisand’s stance on fair compensation serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts towards achieving equality in the entertainment sector.
The entertainment industry’s ongoing dialogue on gender pay equity has seen notable advancements in recent years, with prominent figures like Streisand using their platforms to advocate for fair treatment. As discussions around diversity and inclusion in Hollywood persist, Streisand’s candid remarks add to the broader conversation on addressing systemic challenges and fostering a more equitable environment for all individuals involved in the creative arts.