32 Facts About Meryl Streep

Early Life and Education

Meryl Streep, often hailed as one of the greatest actresses of her generation, has a fascinating background that shaped her illustrious career.

1. Born Mary Louise Streep on June 22, 1949, in Summit, New Jersey, she was the eldest of three children.
2. Her father, Harry William Streep Jr., was a pharmaceutical executive, while her mother, Mary Wilkinson Streep, was a commercial artist.
3. Streep attended Bernards High School in Bernardsville, New Jersey, where she was a cheerleader and homecoming queen.
4. She graduated from Vassar College in 1971 with a degree in drama and costume design.
5. Streep later earned a Master of Fine Arts degree from the Yale School of Drama in 1975.

Early Career and Breakthrough

Before becoming a household name, Streep had to navigate the challenging world of acting, making her mark with determination and talent.

6. Her first professional stage debut was in "Trelawny of the Wells" at the Public Theater in 1975.
7. Streep's film debut came in 1977 with a small role in "Julia," starring Jane Fonda and Vanessa Redgrave.
8. She gained widespread recognition for her role in the 1978 miniseries "Holocaust," which earned her an Emmy Award.
9. Her breakthrough film role was in "The Deer Hunter" (1978), which earned her first Academy Award nomination.
10. Streep won her first Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Kramer vs. Kramer" (1979).

Iconic Roles and Accolades

Streep's career is marked by a series of iconic roles and numerous accolades, solidifying her status as a Hollywood legend.

11. She portrayed the title character in "Sophie's Choice" (1982), earning her second Academy Award, this time for Best Actress.
12. Streep has been nominated for a record 21 Academy Awards, winning three.
13. She has also received 32 Golden Globe nominations, winning eight.
14. Her portrayal of Margaret Thatcher in "The Iron Lady" (2011) earned her third Oscar.
15. Streep played Miranda Priestly in "The Devil Wears Prada" (2006), a role that became a cultural phenomenon.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Beyond her acting career, Streep is known for her personal life and philanthropic efforts.

16. Streep married sculptor Don Gummer in 1978, and they have four children together.
17. Her children, Henry, Mamie, Grace, and Louisa, have all pursued careers in the arts.
18. Streep is an advocate for women's rights and has supported various charities, including the National Women's History Museum.
19. She donated her entire salary from "The Iron Lady" to the Women's History Museum.
20. Streep has been a vocal supporter of the Time's Up movement, advocating against sexual harassment in Hollywood.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Meryl Streep's life is filled with interesting tidbits and lesser-known facts that add to her intriguing persona.

21. Streep can speak fluent Italian, a skill she learned for her role in "The Bridges of Madison County" (1995).
22. She has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which she received in 1998.
23. Streep was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2014.
24. She is known for her ability to master various accents, including Polish, Danish, and British.
25. Streep has a fear of helicopters, which she had to overcome while filming "The River Wild" (1994).

Legacy and Influence

Streep's influence on the film industry and her legacy as an actress are undeniable.

26. She has inspired countless actors and actresses with her dedication to her craft and versatility.
27. Streep's performances have been studied in acting classes around the world.
28. She has been a member of the American Academy of Arts and Letters since 2010.
29. Streep's impact extends beyond acting, as she has been a role model for women in various fields.
30. She has received honorary degrees from several universities, including Harvard and Princeton.

Recent Work and Continuing Impact

Even in recent years, Streep continues to captivate audiences with her performances and contributions to the arts.

31. She starred in the critically acclaimed HBO series "Big Little Lies" in 2019.
32. Streep played Aunt March in Greta Gerwig's adaptation of "Little Women" (2019), showcasing her enduring talent and versatility.

Meryl Streep: A Living Legend

Meryl Streep's career is nothing short of extraordinary. With a record number of Oscar nominations, she has proven her versatility in roles ranging from dramatic to comedic. Her dedication to her craft is evident in every performance, making her a true icon in the film industry. Beyond her acting, Streep is also known for her activism and philanthropy, using her platform to advocate for important causes. Her ability to transform into any character, combined with her unwavering commitment, sets her apart from her peers. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to her work, there's no denying the impact she's had on cinema. Meryl Streep continues to inspire and entertain, leaving an indelible mark on Hollywood. Her legacy will undoubtedly influence future generations of actors and filmmakers.