Beautiful Photos of Young Barbra Streisand in Her Early Career in 1966

Barbra Streisand was a sensation of talent that hit the entertainment world at full force. By 1966, at just 23 years old, she was already a star.  With hit records, a Broadway triumph in “Funny Girl,” and a string of TV specials, she seemed unstoppable. But behind the dazzling performances and confident stage presence, a different story unfolded.

LIFE magazine captured this side of Streisand in a 1966 article. They described her as a “fear-ridden girl,” anxious that her fame could vanish at any moment.  This might seem surprising for someone so talented and successful. But Streisand, even then, was known for her intense self-critique and drive for perfection.

The article highlighted her constant need for approval.  “Why Barbra Streisand has to know what people think of her every time she performs is an astounding, and wrenching, phenomenon,” wrote LIFE’s Diana Lurie.  Despite her awards and sold-out shows, Streisand worried about failure.  “One of these days something is going to bomb. It’s a scary thing,” she admitted.

These images reveal the complex emotions behind the public persona.  Streisand’s insecurity wasn’t weakness; it was part of what fueled her artistic fire.  She pushed herself relentlessly, always seeking to improve.

#1 Barbra Streisand in 1966.

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#2 In [a] TV recording studio session, Barbra, listening to a song being played back, vacillates wildly between doubt, delight and despair.

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#3 Barbra Streisand in a recording studio in 1966, listening to herself sing.

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#4 Barbra Streisand in a recording studio in 1966, listening to herself sing.

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#5 Barbra Streisand at a 1966 recording session.

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#6 In TV control booth Barbra watches tensely as a song in her new show [a special on CBS] is played back.

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#7 Watching herself on a monitor during rehearsals for a 1966 TV special, Barbra Streisand “is so distressed by her singing and appearance that she hides her eyes.”

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#8 In Paris to be photographed by Vogue, in a jaguar suit she designed herself, Barbra Streisand watches Chanel spring collection opening in stony silence. At far right are [actress and model] Elsa Martinelli and Marlene Dietrich.

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#9 Barbra Streisand in France, 1966.

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#10 Warding off 6 a.m. chill with her silver fox coat, Barbra listens to the umpteenth playback of her recordings for an album of French songs. She sang in French, polishing every word more than ever.

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#11 LIFE Magazine March 18, 1966 cover with Barbara Streisand.

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