Barbra Streisand was supposed to attend the closing-night gala of the 79th Cannes Film Festival on Saturday, where she was to receive an honorary Palme d'Or. At 83, the legendary American actress, director, and singer hadn't spent an evening in Cannes in over three decades - this time it looked like she would get her moment again. But at the last second, her health gave out.

Streisand canceled the appearance in an official statement, citing health reasons. "Following my doctors' advice, and as I continue rehabilitation after a knee injury, I unfortunately cannot attend," she wrote. It is a short, simple statement, but for an actress who rarely talks publicly about her health, it is also confirmation that things are not going easily.

"I was very much looking forward to spending time with colleagues I deeply respect, and of course returning to France - a place I have always loved," Streisand added. That is almost an apology - not for the defeat itself, but for not being able to show up in person. Stars of her stature do not do surprise appearances, they are planned months in advance. Canceling Cannes two days before the event is a signal that this is serious.

Festival heads Iris Knobloch and Thierry Frémaux wished her a "swift recovery" and confirmed the ceremony will go ahead without her. The evening's program stays, with short video segments on her filmography and other tributes. Streisand isn't the only one receiving an honorary Palme this year - she shares the spotlight with Peter Jackson and John Travolta.

When stars at Streisand's level cancel because of a knee, it isn't just a personal matter. It is a signal that at a certain age, health becomes more important than the stage. Barbra has rarely performed since the 60s, her last tour was in 2017. Her absence in Cannes is a real loss - for her, and for the audience that was waiting. Whether there will be another chance - that is a question time and the knee will both answer.