Meryl Streep, a highly acclaimed actress, is the second of four consecutive Outstanding Supporting Actress Oscar winners with the initials “M.S.,” following Maggie Smith in 1978, and preceding Mary Steenburgen in 1980 and Maureen Stapleton in 1981. In 1989, Streep lobbied for the lead role in Oliver Stone’s adaptation of Evita but dropped out due to a salary dispute, leading the role to eventually be played by Madonna in 1996. Streep’s versatility as an actress was showcased in her role in the 1990 film Postcards from the Edge, written by Carrie Fisher, where she eventually became the godmother to Fisher’s daughter, Billie Lourd.
Interestingly, Streep was in early consideration for the iconic role of Ripley in the Alien franchise, but the role went to her Yale classmate Sigourney Weaver. However, she made a contribution to the character later on, as a prosthetic cast of Ripley’s head used in Alien 3 was originally made for Streep for a different project. Throughout her career, Streep has only lost out on five roles, including Dwan in King Kong, Michelle Straton in American Gigolo, Patsy Cline in Sweet Dreams, Miss Kenton in The Remains of the Day, and Elizabeth I in Elizabeth.
Streep’s career has been marked by her exceptional talent and commitment to her craft. She has won numerous awards for her roles and has been praised for her ability to fully embody her characters. Her dedication to her roles is evidenced by her willingness to immerse herself in a variety of projects, from adaptations of novels to biographical films. Streep’s range as an actress is highlighted by her willingness to take on challenging roles and to explore different genres.
Despite her immense success, Streep has faced challenges in her career, such as losing out on certain roles and facing salary disputes. However, she has continued to push boundaries and set new standards in the industry. Streep’s influence as an actress extends beyond her performances on screen, as she has also made a lasting impact on the lives of those she has worked with, such as becoming the godmother to Carrie Fisher’s daughter. Her ability to form meaningful connections with her colleagues highlights her professionalism and dedication to her craft.
Overall, Meryl Streep’s career is a testament to her talent, versatility, and dedication as an actress. From her early successes in the 1970s to her iconic roles in the 1980s and beyond, Streep has consistently delivered powerful performances that have resonated with audiences and critics alike. Her reputation as one of the greatest actresses of her generation is well-deserved, and she continues to inspire and influence future generations of performers. Streep’s impact on the industry is undeniable, and her legacy as a groundbreaking actress will endure for years to come.
