Marty Erlichman, Who Helped Shape Barbra Streisand’s Legendary Career, Dies at 97

Marty Erlichman, the longtime manager who recognized Barbra Streisand’s extraordinary talent early in her career and remained beside her for more than six decades, has died at 97.

Erlichman died on October 31 of age-related causes, according to a statement announcing his death. His passing ends a remarkable professional partnership that began before Streisand became an international star.

Their story started in a New York nightclub, where Erlichman heard the young singer performing as an opening act for comedian Phil Leeds. He immediately recognized the potential in her voice and became a central figure in guiding her future.

Over the years, Erlichman helped secure the agreements behind Streisand’s recording, theater, film, television and concert work. Their collaboration also included major live productions, among them her Millennium Concert and her 2006–07 world tour. As executive producer of the 1994 HBO special Barbra: The Concert, he earned both an Emmy and a Peabody Award.

For Streisand, however, his importance extended far beyond business. In a tribute following his death, she described a relationship sustained by mutual confidence, friendship and loyalty.

“I truly thought he would live forever,” she said.

Streisand recalled that they had worked together without a contract and said she had always felt protected with Erlichman beside her. Even a few weeks before his death, she said, he was encouraging her to tour again and promising his support.

Although his name became closely associated with Streisand, Erlichman’s career reached across the entertainment industry. His clients included the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem, Gary Puckett & the Union Gap, comedian and actor Chevy Chase, boxing champion George Foreman and songwriter and producer Bob Crewe.

He also worked as a film producer, with credits including Streisand’s 1974 comedy For Pete’s Sake, the 1978 thriller Coma and the 1983 film Breathless.

Born in Brooklyn on September 13, 1929, Erlichman attended Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, before building his career in entertainment management.

His family remembered him as a loving husband, father and grandfather whose private devotion mattered as much to them as his professional achievements.

Erlichman is survived by his wife of 52 years, Miko Mayama Erlichman; his son, J.J.; daughter-in-law Talia; and four grandchildren, Mia, Sarah, Olivia and Jack. His family plans to honor his life with a private service.