The Unforgettable Meryl Streep - Career Highlights And Beyond
Meryl Streep's first movie was in 1977. Steep was born in New Jersey and is a fifth-generation American. His family history goes back ten generations to a small town in Germany called Loffenau. From her iconic performances to her impactful advocacy, Streep's journey in the world of entertainment is nothing short of remarkable.
Author:Iram MartinsReviewer:Elisa MuellerAug 10, 20239.1K Shares189.6K Views
In the vast constellation of Hollywood stars, few shine as brilliantly asMeryl Streep. With a career spanning over four decades, Streep has established herself as an unparalleled force in the world of acting. Her versatility, commitment to her craft, and remarkable ability to inhabit a wide range of characters have earned her accolades, adoration, and a place among the most celebrated performers in history.
From her early days in the theater to her unforgettable performances on the silver screen, Meryl Streep's journey is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring impact of a true artistic virtuoso.
Quick Facts About Meryl Streep
| Name | Meryl Streep |
| Birthday | June 22, 1949 |
| Profession | Actress |
| Net worth | $170 million |
Early Life Of Meryl Streep
Video unavailable
This video is unavailable: Original link to video
Meryl Streep, born Mary Louise Streep on June 22, 1949, in Summit, New Jersey, USA, began her journey to becoming one of the most acclaimed actresses in the world from humble beginnings. Her early life laid the foundation for her eventual success, showcasing her determination, passion, and artistic inclination.
Streep was the second of three children born to Mary Wilkinson Streep, a commercial artist, and Harry William Streep Jr., a pharmaceutical executive. Raised in Bernardsville, New Jersey, she grew up alongside her siblings, Dana and Harry. Her family's artistic interests and encouragement fostered her love for music, acting, and storytelling from an early age.
Streep attended Bernards High School, where she became involved in various extracurricular activities, including cheerleading and school plays. She demonstrated her exceptional talent in performing arts during her high school years, participating in theater productions and winning acclaim for her roles.
Streep's passion for acting led her to enroll at Vassar College in 1967. She continued to shine on stage, earning accolades for her performances in college theater productions. She later transferred to Yale University's School of Drama, where she pursued a Master of Fine Arts degree. Here, she honed her acting skills and further developed her craft.
After graduating from Yale in 1975, Streep faced the challenges that many aspiring actors encounter in the early stages of their careers. Despite initial rejections and setbacks, Streep's unwavering determination pushed her to persist in pursuing her dreams.
Streep initially gained recognition through her work in theater, with notable performances in productions like "Trelawny of the Wells" and "27 Wagons Full of Cotton." She made her screen debut in the TV movie "The Deadliest Season" (1977) and soon after appeared in the film "Julia" (1977).
Filmography And Notable Projects Of Meryl Streep
Top 10 Meryl Streep Movies
Meryl Streep's filmography reads like a journey through cinematic excellence, with each project showcasing her extraordinary range and ability to immerse herself in a diverse array of characters. From heartfelt dramas to whimsical comedies, Streep's filmography is a testament to her commitment to storytelling and her uncanny knack for bringing characters to life.
One of Streep's early standout roles was in "Kramer vs. Kramer" (1979), where she portrayed Joanna Kramer, a woman grappling with the complexities of motherhood and self-discovery. Her performance earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, marking the beginning of her illustrious career in film.
"Sophie's Choice" (1982) catapulted Streep to new heights of acclaim. Her haunting portrayal of a Holocaust survivor dealing with unspeakable trauma earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress. This role showcased her ability to delve into profound emotional depths, leaving an indelible mark on audiences.
In "The Devil Wears Prada" (2006), Streep demonstrated her comedic prowess as the formidable and fashion-forward Miranda Priestly. Her impeccable timing and commanding presence added layers of complexity to the film's characters, and the movie itself became a cult classic.
"The Iron Lady" (2011) saw Streep embodying another real-life figure, former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Her transformative performance earned her a third Academy Award, cementing her status as an acting powerhouse who could authentically capture even the most iconic personalities.
Streep's enchanting turn as the vivacious Donna in "Mamma Mia!" (2008) and its sequel showcased her musical talents, proving that she could effortlessly switch between dramatic roles and lighthearted musicals. Her on-screen chemistry with co-stars added to the film's infectious energy.
In "Into the Woods" (2014), Streep brought the enigmatic Witch to life in a fairy tale musical adaptation. Her captivating vocals and ability to convey both dark and humorous aspects of the character added depth to the narrative.
Streep's recent work in "The Laundromat" (2019) and "Let Them All Talk" (2020) demonstrated her ongoing commitment to thought-provoking and unconventional projects. Her willingness to tackle roles that challenge the status quo exemplifies her dedication to pushing creative boundaries.
Iconic Performances By Meryl Streep
Plastik's Top 10 Meryl Streep most iconic performances
Meryl Streep's career is studded with performances that have left an indelible mark on cinema and culture. Her remarkable ability to transform into diverse characters with depth and authenticity has garnered critical acclaim and endeared her to audiences worldwide. Here are some of her most iconic performances:
- Sophie Zawistowski - "Sophie's Choice" (1982)- Streep's portrayal of a Polish Holocaust survivor facing an unimaginable decision earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress. The emotional depth and complexity of her performance remain unforgettable.
- Karen Silkwood - "Silkwood" (1983)- In this gripping drama based on real events, Streep played a nuclear plant worker who becomes a whistleblower, showcasing her ability to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously.
- Karen Blixen - "Out of Africa" (1985)- Streep's portrayal of a Danish author living in colonial Kenya earned her an Oscar nomination. Her elegant and nuanced performance contributed to the film's epic quality.
- Helen Archer - "Postcards from the Edge" (1990)- Streep's portrayal of an actress struggling with addiction and strained family relationships showcased her comedic timing and vulnerability in this adaptation of Carrie Fisher's semi-autobiographical novel.
- Miranda Priestly - "The Devil Wears Prada" (2006)- Streep's deliciously wicked performance as the formidable fashion magazine editor earned her critical acclaim and showcased her comedic prowess.
- Julia Child - "Julie & Julia" (2009)- Streep's portrayal of legendary chef Julia Child in a charming culinary tale highlighted her versatility and knack for capturing historical figures with authenticity.
- Margaret Thatcher - "The Iron Lady" (2011)- Streep's transformation into the controversial British Prime Minister earned her a third Academy Award. Her ability to capture Thatcher's mannerisms and evolution was a masterclass in acting.
- Violet Weston - "August: Osage County" (2013)- Streep's portrayal of the complex and dysfunctional matriarch of a troubled family showcased her prowess in bringing complex characters to life.
- Florence Foster Jenkins - "Florence Foster Jenkins" (2016) - Streep's charming and comedic portrayal of a tone-deaf opera singer was a delightful departure, showcasing her ability to tackle roles with humor and heart.
- Mary Louise Wright - "Big Little Lies" (TV Series, 2019)- Streep's turn as a grieving and incisive mother-in-law added an extra layer of depth to the acclaimed series, highlighting her ability to excel in both film and television.
Memorable On-Screen Partnerships Of Meryl Streep
Meryl Streep's on-screen chemistry with fellow actors has contributed to the magic of her performances. Her ability to connect and create dynamic relationships with her co-stars has resulted in some unforgettable cinematic moments. Here are a few of her most memorable on-screen partnerships:
- Robert Redford - "Out of Africa" (1985)- Streep's chemistry with Robert Redford brought depth and romance to the sweeping epic set in colonial Kenya. Their on-screen connection added emotional resonance to the story.
- Dustin Hoffman - "Kramer vs. Kramer" (1979)- Streep's portrayal of a conflicted mother facing a custody battle opposite Dustin Hoffman showcased their emotional range, earning both of them Academy Awards.
- Jack Nicholson - "Heartburn" (1986)- Streep's pairing with Jack Nicholson in this comedy-drama provided a mix of wit and poignancy, resulting in a believable and relatable on-screen couple.
- Clint Eastwood - "The Bridges of Madison County" (1995)- Streep's chemistry with Clint Eastwood lent a passionate and bittersweet authenticity to their fleeting romance, making their connection deeply moving.
- Anne Hathaway - "The Devil Wears Prada" (2006)- Streep's dynamic with Anne Hathaway in this fashion-focused comedy allowed for a compelling mentor-mentee relationship that drove the heart of the story.
- Julia Roberts - "August: Osage County" (2013) - The on-screen tension and familial dynamics between Streep and Julia Roberts added a layer of intensity to their portrayals of a mother and daughter in a dysfunctional family.
- Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin - "It's Complicated" (2009)- Streep's interactions with Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin in this romantic comedy brought humor and authenticity to the complexities of modern relationships.
- Colin Firth - "Florence Foster Jenkins" (2016)- Streep's charming rapport with Colin Firth in this biographical comedy-drama brought warmth to their characters' friendship and connection.
- Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, and Others - "Big Little Lies" (TV Series, 2019)- Streep's interactions with her ensemble cast members in the acclaimed TV series created a tapestry of complex relationships, adding depth to the storyline.
- Emily Blunt - "Into the Woods" (2014)- Streep's on-screen dynamic with Emily Blunt in this musical fantasy film showcased their rapport as the Witch and the Baker's Wife, contributing to the film's enchantment.
Meryl Streep Awards And Accolades
MERYL STREEP OSCARS WINS COMPILATION
Meryl Streep's exceptional talent and dedication to her craft have earned her numerous awards and accolades throughout her illustrious career. Her ability to embody a wide range of characters and deliver captivating performances has solidified her as one of the most celebrated actresses in the history of cinema. Here are some of her most notable awards and honors:
Academy Awards (Oscars)
- Best Supporting Actress for "Kramer vs. Kramer" (1980)
- Best Actress for "Sophie's Choice" (1983)
- Best Actress for "The Iron Lady" (2012)
- Total Oscar nominations- Over 21, making her the most nominated actor in Oscar history.
Golden Globe Awards
- Best Supporting Actress for "Kramer vs. Kramer" (1980)
- Best Actress (Drama) for "The French Lieutenant's Woman" (1982)
- Best Actress (Drama) for "Sophie's Choice" (1983)
- Best Actress (Comedy or Musical) for "Julie & Julia" (2010)
- Cecil B. DeMille Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2017
BAFTA Awards
- Best Actress in a Leading Role for "The French Lieutenant's Woman" (1983)
- Best Actress in a Leading Role for "The Iron Lady" (2012)
Screen Actors Guild Awards (SAG Awards)
- Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role for "Doubt" (2009)
- Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role for "The Iron Lady" (2012)
- Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017
Primetime Emmy Awards
- Outstanding Narrator for "Five Came Back" (2017)
- Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie for "Holocaust" (1979)
Honorary Awards And Recognitions
- AFI Life Achievement Award in 2004
- Kennedy Center Honors in 2011
- Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014
Meryl Streep's Net Worth
Meryl Streep Lifestyle | Net Worth, Fortune, Car Collection, Mansion...
Meryl Streep, the iconic actress, has not only established herself as one of the finest actors of our time but also amassed an enormous net worth over the years because of her incredible ability and multiple award-winning performances. Meryl has amassed an estimated net worth of $170 million thanks to her stellar career in cinema and television, which has afforded her huge paychecks and placed her among the highest earners in the entertainment world.
Meryl has continuously ranked as one of the highest-paid actresses in the industry. For instance, in the year from September 2019-September 2020, she made a total of $25,000,000 from her performing roles. She typically earns $20 million a film, however, she has taken smaller paychecks for higher-profile roles or ones that included a share of the film's profits.
Meryl Streep's Salary Highlights
Meryl Streep has earned her place as a Hollywood legend because of her illustrious career and long list of accomplishments. Her acting skills have garnered her widespread accolades and unprecedented fame. Meryl's staggering $24 million in earnings in 2022 confirmed her place among the industry's highest-paid actresses, as reported by Forbes. Meryl Streep's performance in Big Little Lies was so noteworthy that the show paid her an unprecedented $800,000 for each episode. It was only a few hundred thousand dollars short of the million-dollar salaries that the show's stars and executive producers took home.
Her high salary demands are reflected in the fact that she was paid an estimated $800,000 per episode or more for her role in the Hulu series Only Murders in the Building. Meryl's worth has skyrocketed since she was previously paid $850,000 for each episode for another project.
Meryl Streep has been able to command high fees for her performances because of her immense skill and popularity with audiences. Meryl received an offer she didn't think was good enough for her iconic role as Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada. She had the confidence in her worth to negotiate a $5 million compensation, which more accurately reflected her role in the film's success.
Meryl has earned between $3 million and $7 million for her acting roles in such films as Julie & Julia, Ricki & the Flash, Out of Africa, It's Complicated, and The Bridges of Madison County.
For "The Deer Hunter" in 1978, Streep raked up $35,000. After adjusting for inflation, that is equivalent to almost $140,000 today. She made $85,000 for "Kramer vs. Kramer" a year later, which is equivalent to $340,000 now. Streep averaged $4 million for each film throughout the 1980s. In recent years, her picture paychecks have reached $20 million, or $10 million with backside earnings. She only demanded $1 million to play the title role in "The Iron Lady" in 2011, and she gave the whole sum to the Women's History Museum.
Real Estate Properties Of Meryl Streep
Meryl Streep | House Tour | $4 Million Pasadena Mansion & More
Meryl and Don bought a townhouse in New York City for $2.175 million in 1995. They made $9.1 million off of the sale of the property in 2005. They dropped $10.13 million on a four-bedroom New York City penthouse in 2006. In 2018, the couple put the home on the market for $25 million. Streep and Gummer dropped their asking price to $18.25 million in September 2018. In February 2020, they caved and received $16 million.
They dropped $3.6 million for a Pasadena, California, mid-century modern in the winter of 2017. As a final piece of property, they have a country house on 90 acres in Salisbury, Connecticut.
Philanthropic Works Of Meryl Streep
Meryl Streep is a passionate supporter of a wide range of issues, including education, the environment, gender equality, poverty, healthcare, and human rights. In 1989, she helped start Mothers & Others, a group that worked for 12 years to protect children's health and the health of the environment, as well as to support organic and sustainable farming.
One of the things they did was pass the Food Quality Protection Act in 1996, which limits the use of chemicals in food. She keeps working for change with groups like the Center for Health and the Global Environment at Harvard Medical School, Scenic Hudson, the Children's Health Environmental Coalition, and Partners in Health. Streep is a vocal supporter of women's rights, and she is also involved in Equality Now, which fights for the human rights of women around the world.
Streep has been quietly giving away a large amount of money for a while now. She and her husband, Don Gummer, do not get paid by the Silver Mountain Foundation, a non-profit organization that has given millions of dollars to places like Vassar College, Oxfam America, Meals on Wheels in New York City, the Coalition for the Homeless, and the National Women's History Museum. In 2012, she gave a total of $20,000 to two schools in Rhode Island that were connected to her co-star Viola Davis.
Even though she made a lot of money from her work, she knew it was a blessing to be wealthy and decided to use her money to help the causes she believed in. Meryl and other Hollywood stars like George Clooney and Jennifer Lopez recently gave $1 million to the SAG-AFTRA Foundation to help the actors and writers on strike.
Interesting Facts About Meryl Streep
Top 10 Facts - Meryl Streep // Top Facts
- Streep is renowned for her ability to master various accents and dialects. She studied phonetics to enhance her language skills for different roles, showcasing her dedication to authenticity.
- Streep initially aspired to be an opera singer and received vocal training. Although she pursued acting, her musical talents were later showcased in films like "Mamma Mia!" (2008) and "Into the Woods" (2014).
- In a humorous interview, Streep once stated that she was going to retire after the age of 40. Fortunately for fans, this turned out to be quite the opposite, as she continued to take on challenging roles well into her career.
- Meryl Streep and Robert Redford, despite their acclaimed chemistry in "Out of Africa" (1985), only shared 11 minutes of screen time in the film. Their ability to create a compelling on-screen romance is a testament to their acting prowess.
- Streep's acceptance speeches at award shows have often tackled social and political issues. Her powerful words about gender equality and diversity have resonated with audiences and inspired change.
- Streep starred in "The River Wild" (1994) alongside Kevin Bacon. Her connection to the famous "Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon" game reduces the degrees of separation between her and many other actors.
- In "Heartburn" (1986), Streep played a character loosely based on writer Nora Ephron, who later directed her in "Julie & Julia" (2009). This unique connection added depth to their collaboration.
- Streep's Broadway appearances have been relatively rare due to her busy film schedule. However, her theatrical performances, such as in "Mother Courage and Her Children" (2006), have garnered critical acclaim.
- To prepare for her role as Margaret Thatcher in "The Iron Lady" (2011), Streep kept a diary as the character, even writing personal notes and lists in character to immerse herself fully.
- Streep's daughter, Mamie Gummer, followed in her footsteps and became an actress. They appeared together in the film "Evening" (2007) and the TV series "The Good Wife."
Quotes To Remember From Meryl Streep
“„The great gift of human beings is that we have the power of empathy, we can all sense a mysterious connection to each other.- Meryl Streep
“„Integrate what you believe in every single area of your life. Take your heart to work and ask the most and best of everybody else, too.- Meryl Streep
“„I think the best role models for women are people who are fruitfully and confidently themselves, who bring light into the world- Meryl Streep
“„You can't get spoiled if you do your own ironing.- Meryl Streep
“„True freedom is understanding that we have a choice in who and what we allow to have power over us.- Meryl Streep
People Also Ask
How Many Awards Has Meryl Streep Won?
Meryl Streep has won three Academy Awards (Oscars), eight Golden Globe Awards, and multiple other prestigious honors throughout her career.
What Was Meryl Streep's First Movie?
Meryl Streep's first film role was in "Julia" (1977), where she had a supporting role alongside Jane Fonda and Vanessa Redgrave.
Has Meryl Streep Ever Directed A Film?
Yes, Meryl Streep directed the film "The Bridges of Madison County" (1995), which starred Clint Eastwood and herself in the lead roles.
How Many Movies Has Meryl Streep Been In?
Meryl Streep has appeared in over 70 films throughout her career, showcasing her remarkable versatility and talent.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the awe-inspiring journey of Meryl Streep, it becomes clear that her influence goes beyond mere celebrity status. Streep's legacy is etched into the annals of film history, not just for her extensive list of awards and accolades, but for her indomitable spirit, commitment to authenticity, and unwavering dedication to her craft. With each role she undertakes, Streep brings a depth and nuance that transcends the screen, inviting audiences to explore the complex tapestry of the human experience.
As the years roll on, Meryl Streep's legacy continues to flourish. Her performances have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema, shaping the art form and inspiring generations of actors to come. Through her portrayals of diverse characters, her advocacy for social change, and her enduring pursuit of excellence, Streep has proven that she is not just an actress, but a luminary whose brilliance will continue to illuminate the cinematic landscape for years to come.
Jump to
Quick Facts About Meryl Streep
Early Life Of Meryl Streep
Filmography And Notable Projects Of Meryl Streep
Iconic Performances By Meryl Streep
Memorable On-Screen Partnerships Of Meryl Streep
Meryl Streep Awards And Accolades
Meryl Streep's Net Worth
Meryl Streep's Salary Highlights
Real Estate Properties Of Meryl Streep
Philanthropic Works Of Meryl Streep
Interesting Facts About Meryl Streep
People Also Ask
Conclusion
Iram Martins
Author
Iram Martins is a seasoned travel writer and explorer with over a decade of experience in uncovering the world's hidden gems. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Management from the University of Lisbon, Iram's credentials highlight his authority in the realm of travel.
As an author of numerous travel guides and articles for top travel publications, his writing is celebrated for its vivid descriptions and practical insights.
Iram’s passion for cultural immersion and off-the-beaten-path adventures shines through in his work, captivating readers and inspiring wanderlust.
Outside of his writing pursuits, Iram enjoys learning new languages, reviewing films and TV shows, writing about celebrity lifestyles, and attending cultural festivals.
Elisa Mueller
Reviewer
Elisa Mueller, a Kansas City native, grew up surrounded by the wonders of books and movies, inspired by her parents' passion for education and film.
She earned bachelor's degrees in English and Journalism from the University of Kansas before moving to New York City, where she spent a decade at Entertainment Weekly, visiting film sets worldwide.
With over 8 years in the entertainment industry, Elisa is a seasoned journalist and media analyst, holding a degree in Journalism from NYU. Her insightful critiques have been featured in prestigious publications, cementing her reputation for accuracy and depth.
Outside of work, she enjoys attending film festivals, painting, writing fiction, and studying numerology.
Latest Articles
Popular Articles