Meryl Streep - A Trailblazing Icon Of The Silver Screen
Meryl Streep - a name that resonates with unparalleled talent, versatility, and a legacy that has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. With a career spanning decades, Streep's remarkable journey from a small town in New Jersey to becoming a globally renowned actress is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Her unparalleled ability to immerse herself in a diverse array of characters has made her a true trailblazer in the entertainment industry.
Author:Scarlet SunsetReviewer:Rock WildfireAug 07, 202335K Shares500.3K Views
In the grand tapestry of Hollywood's history, few names shine as brightly as Meryl Streep. With a career spanning over four decades, Streep has woven herself into the very fabric of the entertainmentindustry, captivating audiences with her unmatched talent, versatility, and sheer dedication to her craft. From the grand stages of theater to the silver screen's most memorable characters, Meryl Streep has earned her place as an icon, leaving an indelible mark that will resonate for generations to come.
Quick Facts About Meryl Streep
| Name | Meryl Streep |
| Birthday | June 22, 1949 |
| Profession | Actress |
| Net worth | $170 million |
Early Life Of Meryl Streep
The Life of Meryl Streep | Brut
Mary Louise "Meryl" Streep was born on June 22, 1949, in Summit, New Jersey. Harry William and Dana David, who are both younger than her, are also artists. Her mother, Mary Wilkinson Streep, was a commercial artist and art director, and her father, Harry William Streep Jr., ran a pharmaceutical company. Streep went to Bernards High School in Bernardsville, New Jersey, where she was a cheerleader and won homecoming queen in her final year. She also was in many school shows and took four years of opera lessons from Estelle Liebling.
Streep went to Vassar College and got her degree there in 1971. When she was in the play "Miss Julie" at Vassar College in 1969, she became interested in serious theater. She then went to Yale School of Drama to get an MFA, which she got in 1975. She worked as a waitress and a typist and was in more than a dozen plays a year to make money while she was at Yale.
In her early adulthood, Streep's determination led her to New York City, where she began to tread the path of a professional actress. She participated in off-Broadway productions and showcased her talents to a wider audience. However, her journey wasn't without its challenges. She faced initial rejections and struggled to find roles that matched her potential.
Iconic Roles And Notable Films Of Meryl Streep
Kramer Vs. Kramer (1979)
Kramer vs. Kramer (1979) Trailer #1 | Movieclips Classic Trailers
Kramer vs. Kramer was one of Meryl Streep's first movies, and both she and Dustin Hoffman had famous roles in it. In the courtroom drama Kramer Vs. Kramer, Joanna Kramer, and her ex-husband Ted Kramer fightover who gets to keep their kids. When it came out in 1979, it was the highest-grossing movie of the year. People loved how it showed how divorce affects children's minds and how men and women were treated at the time.
People know that when Hoffman's character slaps Meryl Streep in the movie, it wasn't in the script and he hadn't asked her permission first. Streep has talked about it more than once, so everyone knows this.
Sophie's Choice (1982)
Sophie's Choice Official Trailer #1 - Meryl Streep, Kevin Kline Movie (1982) HD
Streep won her second Oscar for this masterful portrayal of a Polish-Catholic Auschwitz survivor dealing with the traumas of the Holocaust while living in a Brooklyn boarding house with her moody lover Nathan Landau (Kevin Kline, 73, in his feature film debut) and aspiring writer Stingo (Peter MacNicol, 67). Streep learned Polish and German for the part, and her Polish-American accent was so real that Roger Ebert said it was "the first accent I've ever wanted to hug."
The Deer Hunter (1978)
THE DEER HUNTER - Official Trailer - Starring Robert De Niro
In many ways, Meryl Streep's role in The Deer Hunter set the stage for the rest of her long and successful career. Meryl Streep might not be the outspoken mogul she is today if she hadn't been nominated for an Oscar for her role in this Best Picture winner. For those who don't know, Streep plays Linda, a young woman who wants to get away from her cruel, alcoholic father and start a new life with her boyfriend Nick (Christopher Walken).
In a movie that takes so much time to explain and show the long-lasting and deep effects that warcan have on soldiers, the fact that Linda gets any screen time at all is pretty amazing. Streep plays Linda with the kind of quiet dignity and fiery power that would come to define her early career. The Deer Hunter would be the key to the rest of her career and set the stage for much of what she would do in the years to come.
"The French Lieutenant's Woman" (1981)
The French Lieutenant's Woman Official Trailer #1 - Meryl Streep Movie (1981) HD
In adapting John Fowles's "unfilmable" novel, director Karel Reisz and writer Harold Pinter create ironic distance and ambiguity in the story of a social outcast (Meryl Streep) who falls in love with a Victorian-era gentleman (Jeremy Irons) by contrasting it with a love affair between two actors (Streep and Irons) playing those same characters in a film. Streep was nominated for Best Actress again for her dual part, but Katharine Hepburn ("On Golden Pond") won the award.
"Out Of Africa" (1985)
Out of Africa Official Trailer #1 - Robert Redford, Meryl Streep Movie (1985) HD
Streep plays Karen Blixen, a Danish baroness and farm owner in Kenya who falls in love with a charismatic big game hunter (Robert Redford). This is the second time Streep has played a real person with a strong accent. Even though the movie is often made fun of, it still works as a kind of "Gone with the Wind" for Africa. The epic by Sydney Pollack won seven Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director, but Meryl Streep lost out to Geraldine Page ("The Trip to Bountiful") for Best Actress.
"The Devil Wears Prada" (2006)
The Devil Wears Prada (2006) Trailer #1 | Movieclips Classic Trailers
The Devil Wears Prada is probably the first movie that comes to mind when you think of iconic Meryl Streep performances. In fact, it has some of the most iconic performances of the 2000s. Streep had a lot of room to play around in her role. We don't often get to see this side of Meryl Streep, which is a big part of why her acting works so well.
Miranda Priestly is such a bad and mean character that she almost goes against everything that made Meryl Streep such a famous actor up until this point. The way she interacts with Anne Hathaway takes both of their figures to such high levels that they not only reach but go beyond. The Devil Wears Prada is a great example of how Meryl Streep can change her acting style to fit any project, which is why it is the first movie on our list.
"Mamma Mia!" (2008)
Mamma Mia! (2008) Official Trailer | Screen Bites
This movie is a crowd-pleaser, just like the ABBA jukebox show that inspired it, even though critics didn't know what to make of its cheesy disco vibes. Still, Streep's casually lived-in performance as Donna, a hotel owner on a Greek island, made people like her right away. Sophie, who is going to be Donna's daughter-in-law, makes things more interesting when she brings three men from Donna's past to her wedding to find out which one is her father. Expect to sing, dance, and kiss a lot under the sun of the Aegean.
"Julie & Julia" (2009)
JULIE & JULIA - Official Trailer (HD)
Take everything we already know about what makes Streep an iconic actress, her ability to change, her skill with tones, her larger-than-life movie star persona, etc., and put it all into one performance. Friends, that's what the movie Julie & Julia is all about. In Julie & Julia, Meryl Streep works again with Nora Ephron, who has written and directed some of the best romantic comedies of all time. Streep uses everything she has learned from her other roles to play Julia Child, a lovely and very strange TV cook.
Streep acts with Amy Adams and Chris Messina, but they are never in the same scene. Her scenes with Stanley Tucci, who plays Julia Child's husband Paul, show the best chemistry of her career. In this movie, everything about Streep is exciting. Every scene is ecstatically brilliant, from the way she perfectly imitates Julia Child's voice and way of speaking to the general romance of an American-born cook trying to capture the essence of French food. If not for Meryl Streep's out-of-this-world performance, this movie might not work at all. Thank goodness, Ephron and Streep are able to make a love comedy that is almost as good as it can get.
"The Iron Lady" (2011)
The Iron Lady Official Movie Trailer [HD]
There aren't many movie monsters scarier than Margaret Thatcher, the former British Prime Minister. Even though Phyllida Lloyd's biographical drama has some problems with the way it was made, Meryl Streep is strangely uncanny as a controversial politician. After nearly 30 years and 12 failed bids, Streep finally won her third Oscar for the film, her second for Best Actress.
"Into The Woods" (2014)
Into the Woods Official Trailer #1 (2014) - Anna Kendrick, Johnny Depp Fantasy Musical HD
Some people will swear by "Mamma Mia!" (2008), but our favorite Meryl Streep musical is Rob Marshall's lavish version of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's Tony-winning stage success. Streep plays an evil witch who gives a childless baker (James Corden) and his wife (Emily Blunt) a task: find magical things from old fairy tales to break the curse on their family tree. She was nominated for an Oscar as Best Supporting Actress for the movie, but she lost to Patricia Arquette ("Boyhood"), who played the same role.
"Florence Foster Jenkins" (2016)
Florence Foster Jenkins Official Trailer #1 (2016) - Meryl Streep, Hugh Grant Movie HD
After showing she was good at musical theater in "Mamma Mia!" and "Into the Woods," Streep played one of the worst singers of all time in Stephen Frears' biographical comedy. She plays New York lady Florence Foster Jenkins, who wants to be an opera singer even though she has a terrible voice. Streep got her 20th Oscar nod for this movie. However, she lost the Best Actress award to Emma Stone ("La La Land"), who had a slightly better vocal range.
Awards And Accolades Of Meryl Streep
Meryl Streep's remarkable talent and consistent dedication to her craft have earned her numerous awards and accolades throughout her illustrious career. Her exceptional performances have not only garnered critical acclaim but have also positioned her as one of the most decorated actors in the history of cinema. Some of her most notable awards and recognitions include:
Academy Awards (Oscars)
- Best Supporting Actress for "Kramer vs. Kramer" (1979)
- Best Actress for "Sophie's Choice" (1982)
- Honorary Award (Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award) for her philanthropic efforts (2012)
- Best Actress for "The Iron Lady" (2011)
Golden Globe Awards
- Best Supporting Actress for "Kramer vs. Kramer" (1979)
- Best Actress (Drama) for "The French Lieutenant's Woman" (1982)
- Cecil B. DeMille Award for Lifetime Achievement (2017)
- Best Actress (Comedy or Musical) for "Julie & Julia" (2010)
- Best Actress (Drama) for "The Iron Lady" (2012)
- And several other nominations and wins
BAFTA Awards
- Best Actress for "The French Lieutenant's Woman" (1982)
- Best Actress for "The Iron Lady" (2012)
- Stanley Kubrick Britannia Award for Excellence in Film (2018)
- And multiple other nominations and wins
Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards
- Outstanding Female Actor in a Leading Role for "Doubt" (2009)
- Outstanding Female Actor in a Leading Role for "The Iron Lady" (2012)
- Outstanding Female Actor in a Supporting Role for "Adaptation" (2003)
- Lifetime Achievement Award (2017)
- And numerous nominations
Cannes Film Festival
Best Actress for "The Iron Lady" (2012)
Primetime Emmy Awards
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie for "Holocaust" (1979)
Tony Award Nomination
Nominated for Best Actress in a Play for "27 Wagons Full of Cotton" (1976)
Honorary Degrees And Recognitions
Streep has received numerous honorary degrees from universities around the world, acknowledging her contributions to the arts and society.
Meryl Streep's extensive list of awards and accolades reflects not only her exceptional talent as an actress but also her profound impact on the entertainment industry and her dedication to various social causes. Her achievements serve as a testament to her enduring legacy as one of the most celebrated and respected figures in film and beyond.
Meryl Streep's Net Worth
Meryl Streep Lifestyle | Net Worth, Fortune, Car Collection, Mansion...
Meryl Streep is an actress who comes along only once in a generation. She has reached many important points in her work. Her long and successful work started in 1975 and is still going on. She has been in a very large number of movies and TV shows. She has also made a lot of money for herself. We think that she is worth about $170 million. In 2009, she had two big hits: Julie & Julia and It's Complicated. Together, they made $350 million at the worldwide box office. As Julia Child, she also got a record-setting 16th Oscar nod.
Salary Highlights Of Meryl Streep
| Big Little Lies | $800,000 |
| Only Murders in the Building | around $800,000 |
| The Nix | $850,000 |
| Mamma Mia 2 | $3 million |
| The Devil Wears Prada | $5 million |
| It's Complicated | $7 million |
| Julie & Julia | $5 million + first-dollar gross % |
| Ricki and the Flash | $5 million |
| Out of Africa | $3 million |
| The Iron Lady | $1 million (she donated all the money) |
| The Bridges of Madison County | $4 million |
| Rendition | $1 million |
| The River Wild | $5 million |
| Death Becomes Her | $4 million + % of the profit |
| Postcards from the Edge | $4 million |
| The French Lieutenant's Woman | $350,000 |
| Kramer vs. Kramer | $85,000 |
| The Deer Hunter | $35,000 |
Real Estate Properties Of Meryl Streep
Meryl Streep $3.6M Mid Century Home in Pasadena California
Back in 1995, Meryl and Don splurged around $2.175 million on a townhouse in New York City. Fast forward to 2005, they sold it off for a whopping $9.1 million.
Then in 2006, they went big and dropped $10.13 million on a cool four-bedroom penthouse in NYC. But things took a twist in 2018 when they put it up for sale at a staggering $25 million. Fast forward a bit more, in September 2018, they brought down the price tag to $18.25 million. Eventually, in February 2020, they settled for $16 million.
Switching coasts, in December 2017, they threw down $3.6 million for a sleek mid-century-modern home in Pasadena, California. Oh, and not to forget, they also have a 90-acre country home in Salisbury, Connecticut.
Meryl Streep's Philanthropic Endeavors
While Meryl Streep's on-screen performances have captivated audiences for decades, her impact extends far beyond her roles in front of the camera. Known for her humanitarian efforts and commitment to various causes, Streep has consistently used her platform to make a positive difference in the world.
- Advocacy for Women's Rights - Streep has been an outspoken advocate for women's rights, addressing issues such as gender equality, representation, and the empowerment of women in various industries. Her involvement in initiatives like the Time's Up movement and support for organizations like Equality Now underscore her dedication to advancing the rights of women on a globalscale.
- Environmental Conservation - Streep's concern for the environment has led her to support organizations that focus on conservation and sustainability. She has been a vocal supporter of the Environmental Defense Fund and has actively participated in campaigns to raise awareness about climate change and the importance of protecting our planet for future generations.
- Support for the Arts - Streep's love for the arts extends beyond her own performances. She has contributed to organizations dedicated to promoting and preserving artistic expression, recognizing the role of creativity in enriching society and fostering cultural understanding.
- Humanitarian Efforts - Streep's philanthropy encompasses a wide range of humanitarian causes, from supporting medical research to providing aid for disaster relief. Her contributions to organizations like Partners in Health, Women in the World Foundation, and the National Women's History Museum highlight her commitment to improving the lives of marginalized communities and amplifying their voices.
- Educational Initiatives - Streep's dedication to education is evident in her support for programs that provide access to quality education for underserved populations. She has been involved with organizations that offer scholarships, mentorship, and resources to aspiring artists and students, recognizing the transformative power of education.
- Impact and Inspiration - Meryl Streep's philanthropic efforts not only provide vital support to various causes but also inspire others to get involved and make a difference. Her willingness to use her fame and influence to address critical issues underscores her belief in the power of collective action and the responsibility of those with a platform to effect positive change.
Meryl Streep's Personal Life
Meryl Streep and Don Gummer // 39th anniversary
In 1978, Streep's life took a significant turn when she met sculptor Don Gummer. Their connection was immediate, and within six months of dating, the couple tied the knot. Their marriage has since become one of the most enduring and stable unions in the world of celebrity, spanning over four decades. The strength of their partnership has often been credited to mutual respect, support, and shared values.
Meryl Streep and Don Gummer welcomed their first child, Henry, in 1979, shortly after they married. Their family expanded with the birth of daughters Mamie (1983), Grace (1986), and Louisa (1991). Despite her demanding career, Streep has consistently emphasized the importance of being present for her family. In interviews, she has spoken about making conscious choices to balance work commitments with spending quality time with her children during their formative years.
Streep's marriage to Don Gummer not only provided a strong foundation for their family but also fostered an environment of shared creativity. Gummer's work as a sculptor and artist aligns with Streep's passion for the arts, creating a symbiotic relationship where their individual pursuits thrive together.
Lesser-Known Facts About Meryl Streep
- Meryl's nickname comes from her given first name, Mary Louise. A classmate at Vassar College gave her the nickname "Meryl" to differentiate her from other Marys.
- Streep initially aspired to become an opera singer and even studied voice at Yale School of Drama before focusing on acting.
- Streep has diverse ancestry, with roots tracing back to Swiss, Dutch, English, Irish, and German heritage.
- Meryl Streep is proficient in several languages, including English, Italian, and German. Her language skills have contributed to her portrayal of characters from various backgrounds.
- One of Streep's first auditions was for the role of Dwan in the film "King Kong" (1976), a role that eventually went to Jessica Lange.
- Streep has mentioned struggling with self-doubt and insecurity about her performances, often critiquing herself harshly.
- Streep was offered the role of "Rose" in "Titanic" (1997) but declined the role. Kate Winslet ultimately played the part.
- Streep's transformation into the elderly Margaret Thatcher for "The Iron Lady" involved prosthetics, makeup, and even modifying her gait to accurately portray the former British Prime Minister.
- Streep's distinctive voice has led her to narrate various documentaries, commercials, and even audiobooks.
- Meryl Streep and Viola Davis developed a close friendship while working together on the film "Doubt" (2008), which contributed to their powerful on-screen dynamic.
- Streep's daughters, Mamie Gummer, and Grace Gummer, followed in her footsteps, becoming actors as well.
- Streep is an advocate for environmental conservation and has supported organizations like the Environmental Defense Fund.
- In addition to her acting prowess, Streep is an accomplished singer and has showcased her singing skills in several films, including "Mamma Mia!" and "Into the Woods."
People Also Ask
How Many Awards Has Meryl Streep Won?
Meryl Streep has won three Academy Awards, commonly known as Oscars, for her exceptional acting performances.
Is Meryl Streep A Singer?
Yes, Meryl Streep is a talented singer as well as an accomplished actress. She has showcased her singing abilities in several films, including musicals like "Mamma Mia!" and "Into the Woods."
How Many Times Has Meryl Streep Been Nominated For An Oscar?
Meryl Streep has been nominated for an Oscar over 21 times, making her the most-nominated actor in Academy Award history.
Is Meryl Streep Related To Dido?
Yes, Meryl Streep is distantly related to the British singer Dido. They are 9th cousins once removed, sharing a common ancestry.
Conclusion
Meryl Streep's journey from her modest beginnings to the pinnacle of cinematic excellence is a testament to the power of determination, artistry, and unwavering passion. Her ability to inhabit characters with a depth that seems to transcend reality itself has not only earned her countless awards but also the unending admiration of her peers and fans alike.
As the legacy of Meryl Streep continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder that true greatness is not only found in talent but in the relentless pursuit of perfection and the ability to transport audiences to new worlds through the magic of storytelling. With each role, each award, and each performance, Meryl Streep solidifies her place as a living legend and an eternal source of inspiration in the world of entertainment.
Jump to
Quick Facts About Meryl Streep
Early Life Of Meryl Streep
Iconic Roles And Notable Films Of Meryl Streep
Awards And Accolades Of Meryl Streep
Meryl Streep's Net Worth
Salary Highlights Of Meryl Streep
Real Estate Properties Of Meryl Streep
Meryl Streep's Philanthropic Endeavors
Meryl Streep's Personal Life
Lesser-Known Facts About Meryl Streep
People Also Ask
Conclusion
Scarlet Sunset
Author
Scarlet Sunset is a captivating and confident transgender individual who radiates sensuality and embraces her unique beauty. With a radiant smile and a touch of red lipstick, she captivates hearts by the poolside as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow on her unforgettable presence.
Despite societal norms and expectations, Scarlet celebrates her body, proudly defying conventional standards of beauty. Her curves tell a story of self-acceptance and empowerment, challenging stereotypes and inspiring others to embrace their own bodies without reservation.
Rock Wildfire
Reviewer
Rock Wildfire is an enigmatic individual whose very presence exudes an air of mystery and intrigue. With a commanding physique and a bald head adorned with expressive tattoos, Rock stands as a living masterpiece. His piercing gaze, often hidden behind stylish sunglasses, adds an extra layer of intrigue to his persona.
Rock embraces his rebellious nature, unapologetically indulging in vices like smoking. Yet, beneath their edgy exterior, beats a heart passionate about wildlife protection. As an animal-crazy advocate, Rock channels their energy into raising awareness and fighting for the well-being of creatures big and small.
Latest Articles
Popular Articles