Meryl Streep

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Meryl Streep cheerleader 1966 (cropped 2)

Meryl Streep cheerleader 2

Meryl Streep by Jack Mitchell

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Meryl Streep (2071470089) (cropped)

Meryl in 1990

Meryl Streep is an acclaimed American actress known for her versatility and accent adaptability. Born on June 22, 1949, in Summit, New Jersey, Streep has become one of the most respected and talented actors of her generation, with a career spanning over four decades. She has received numerous awards, including multiple Academy Awards and Golden Globe Awards, making her one of the most awarded actors in the history of cinema.

Early Life

Meryl Streep was born Mary Louise Streep to Mary Wilkinson Streep, an art editor, and Harry William Streep Jr., a pharmaceutical executive. She grew up in Bernardsville, New Jersey, where she attended Bernards High School. From a young age, Streep showed an interest in acting and was involved in several school plays. After high school, she pursued her passion for acting by enrolling in the Vassar College, where she received her BA in Drama. She further honed her craft at the Yale School of Drama, where she earned an MFA.

Career

Streep's professional career began in the 1970s with roles in stage productions and a few minor film roles. Her breakthrough came with the film "The Deer Hunter" (1978), for which she received her first Academy Award nomination. This was quickly followed by a win for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Kramer vs. Kramer" (1979).

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Streep solidified her reputation as a leading actress with a series of critically acclaimed roles in films such as "Sophie's Choice" (1982), for which she won the Academy Award for Best Actress, and "Out of Africa" (1985). Her versatility was showcased in a range of genres, from dramas to musicals and comedies.

In the 21st century, Streep continued to garner acclaim with performances in films like "The Devil Wears Prada" (2006), "Doubt" (2008), and "The Iron Lady" (2011), where she portrayed British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Her role in "The Iron Lady" won her a third Academy Award, this time for Best Actress.

Personal Life

Meryl Streep is married to sculptor Don Gummer, and they have four children together. She is known for her philanthropy, particularly her support for arts education and women's rights.

Legacy

Meryl Streep is celebrated not only for her exceptional talent and dedication to her craft but also for her ability to portray a wide range of characters. She has been a trailblazer for women in the film industry, breaking age and gender barriers. Streep's influence extends beyond her filmography, as she uses her platform to advocate for various social and political causes.