I was working for writer-producer Rick Edelstein at MGM Studios in the 1980s and he told me that a friend of his was stopping by and they were going to lunch but he wanted me to meet her. Imagine my surprise when in walks…Barbra Streisand! I was pleased to see that she was not at all a “diva” but was dressed casually in white jeans, a pink shirt and hair tousled. She is much more delicate and pretty in person than her normal glamorous image. I remember clearly she had beautiful, translucent skin and her eyes bored right into me when we shook hands.
Apparently, she and Rick had been friends for years; in fact, he had introduced her to Eastern philosophy and alternative medicine which she swore cured some serious internal problems she had suffered from. She was on the lot that day editing “Yentl” a film that had a lot riding on it for her and the studio. They left to go eat Thai food at a small restaurant on Washington Blvd. in Culver City.
About 90 minutes later, I got a call from Rick saying that they had walked to the restaurant, but now they were too full and tired to walk back, so could I come pick them up? OMG – I am driving a small car, my prized Pinto, and it probably needed a good wash (some things never change).
I drove to the restaurant (which was only about 3 blocks away) and picked them up. Rick climbed in the back and Barbra got in the front seat next to me. We started chatting about the film and she expressed her nerves and excitement about the film which she had been her labor of love for years. I told her I was looking forward to it and she smiled, saying “I think you will really like it!” She was right.
Until next time, hooray for Hollywood!
Lisa
Holy Geez Lisa!!! You lead the most fascinating life! Can’t wait for the book!!
Thanks, Lori! It was all your idea. Are you recovered from Espana yet?