When people talk about the greatest actors of all time, Meryl Streep sits comfortably at the top of the list. With unmatched versatility, emotional depth, and a career spanning nearly five decades, she has become the gold standard of performance in Hollywood. From heartbreaking dramas to musical comedies and political biopics, Streep transforms into every character she embodies. This Tushstories.com biography examines her life, relationships, controversies, and her current standing.
Meryl Streep Biography
Mary Louise “Meryl” Streep was born on June 22, 1949, in Summit, New Jersey, and raised in Bernardsville. She attended Vassar College before pursuing an MFA at the Yale School of Drama, where she honed her craft and gained recognition as a standout performer.
Her professional acting career began on stage, but her film breakthrough came with The Deer Hunter (1978), which earned her first Academy Award nomination. Known for her dedication, meticulous preparation, and ability to mimic accents flawlessly, Streep quickly rose to prominence among critics and audiences alike.
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Career
Meryl Streep’s career is marked by versatility and consistent reinvention. Some of her most defining eras include:
- Late 1970s–1980s: Dramatic breakthrough roles in The Deer Hunter (1978) and Kramer vs. Kramer (1979), winning her first Oscars.
- 1990s–2000s: A mix of dramas and mainstream hits like The Bridges of Madison County (1995) and the career-redefining comedy The Devil Wears Prada (2006).
- 2010s–2020s: Bio-roles such as Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady (2011), musicals like Mamma Mia!, prestige films like Little Women (2019), and major ensemble projects including Don’t Look Up (2021).
Her ability to adapt has cemented her reputation as Hollywood’s most consistently brilliant performer.
Meryl Streep Movies
Some of Meryl Streep’s most iconic films include:
- The Deer Hunter (1978)
- Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)
- Sophie’s Choice (1982)
- Out of Africa (1985)
- The Bridges of Madison County (1995)
- The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
- Doubt (2008)
- Julie & Julia (2009)
- The Iron Lady (2011)
- Mamma Mia! series
- Little Women (2019)
- The Laundromat (2019)
- Don’t Look Up (2021)
Her filmography spans more than 70 projects, each showcasing new sides of her talent.
Meryl Streep Net Worth
Meryl Streep’s net worth is widely estimated to be around $100 million. This wealth comes from decades of leading roles, supporting performances, television projects, stage work, narrations, and ongoing residuals from some of Hollywood’s most successful films.
Family
Meryl Streep was born to Mary Wilkinson Streep, a commercial artist, and Harry William Streep Jr., a pharmaceutical executive. She has two brothers, Dana and Harry Streep III.
In her adult family life, Streep has four children with sculptor Don Gummer:
- Henry Wolfe — musician
- Mamie Gummer — actress
- Grace Gummer — actress
- Louisa Jacobson — actress
Her family has long maintained a low public profile despite Streep’s global fame.
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Meryl Streep and John Cazale
Before her marriage, Meryl Streep was in a deeply meaningful relationship with actor John Cazale, known for The Godfather. When Cazale was diagnosed with lung cancer in the late 1970s, Streep stayed by his side until his passing in 1978. She has often spoken about how profoundly the experience shaped her emotionally and professionally.
Meryl Streep and Don Gummer
Meryl Streep married sculptor Don Gummer on September 30, 1978. Their marriage lasted nearly 45 years and produced four children.
In recent years (2023 onward), reports confirmed that Streep and Gummer have been separated for several years, though they maintain mutual respect and remain united in their commitment to their family.
Meryl Streep and Martin Short
In 2023–2024, Meryl Streep and comedian Martin Short, her Only Murders in the Building co-star, sparked public speculation after several friendly outings and red-carpet appearances. Though rumors of romance circulated online, both parties have described their relationship as a close friendship and professional camaraderie.
Meryl Streep Controversies
Despite being one of Hollywood’s most respected figures, Streep has faced occasional controversies:
- Political Comments: Her award ceremony speeches criticizing political figures sparked backlash from some audiences.
- Industry Debates: As a prominent voice in Hollywood, she has sometimes been placed at the center of conversations about representation, casting, and gender politics.
Streep’s controversies are generally tied to public discourse rather than personal scandal.
Meryl Streep Awards
Meryl Streep’s award record is one of the most impressive in the history of cinema. She holds:
Academy Awards (Oscars)
- 3 wins
- Kramer vs. Kramer – Best Supporting Actress
- Sophie’s Choice – Best Actress
- The Iron Lady – Best Actress
- 21 total nominations (the most by any actor ever)
Golden Globe Awards
- 8 wins
- 32 nominations (another record)
Other Major Awards
- BAFTA Awards
- SAG Awards
- Emmy Awards
- Critics’ Choice Awards
- The Presidential Medal of Freedom
- Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award
She also holds numerous honors from global film festivals and lifetime achievement recognitions.
Meryl Streep is widely considered the most awarded actress in history.
Meryl Streep’s Age
Born on June 22, 1949, Meryl Streep is 76 years old as of 2025, and still active in major projects, proving that artistic longevity is one of her greatest achievements.
Meryl Streep Now
In 2024–2025, Meryl Streep continues to work steadily in film and television, including standout appearances on Only Murders in the Building, ongoing narration projects, and select roles in upcoming films. Public appearances at festivals and award events show her vibrant, engaged, and still at the center of global cinema culture.
Conclusion
Meryl Streep’s legacy is more than her 3 Oscars, 21 nominations, and countless awards; it is her unwavering dedication to the craft of acting. From emotional early-career performances to commanding contemporary roles, she remains a towering presence in the entertainment world. Her story is one of resilience, artistry, and evolution, inspiring audiences and actors across generations. As she continues to defy age and expectations, Meryl Streep proves that true talent not only endures, it grows.
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