Meryl Streep’s Decade-Long ‘Actors on Actors’ Avoidance Stuns Hollywood
A surprising revelation regarding the acting icon’s media preferences has emerged, even as she embraces new roles and displays remarkable vulnerability on set.
For years, Hollywood has speculated about the elusive interviews with its biggest stars. Now, a recent disclosure on “The Viall Files” podcast has revealed a long-held secret: Meryl Streep, 76, has consistently declined invitations to participate in Variety magazine’s celebrated “Actors on Actors” series. Despite numerous colleagues actively seeking the opportunity to share a segment with her, the legendary actress has remained unavailable, a fact confirmed by Variety’s chief, Ramin Setoodeh.
This reluctance comes as Variety celebrates a recent win – securing an interview with Leonardo DiCaprio, 51, who was described as a highly sought-after guest. Setoodeh explained the overwhelming demand for a conversation featuring Streep, stating, “Everyone always wants to be paired with Meryl Streep.”
However, Streep’s avoidance of the interview format doesn’t equate to a retreat from the public eye. Instead, she has been actively focusing on television projects and film roles, including her acclaimed performance in Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building” and the upcoming sequel, “The Devil Wears Prada 2.” Setoodeh remains optimistic that Streep will eventually appear in “Actors on Actors,” particularly following a major film release. “Basically I could set her up with anyone, anyone wants to be with Meryl,” he summarized, highlighting the industry-wide appeal of an interview with the star.
While she avoids the traditional sit-down interview, Streep has demonstrated a remarkable openness on the set of “Only Murders in the Building.” John Hoffman, the series creator, shared a poignant anecdote with The Hollywood Reporter detailing the close bond between Streep and her co-star, Martin Short, 75, who portray lovers in the show. Hoffman recounted a nighttime ferry scene in New York, after which Streep reportedly waited for him, visibly moved, to express her gratitude. She confessed to him that she hadn’t imagined she would have the opportunity to play such emotionally resonant romantic scenes at this stage in her career. Hoffman described the dynamic between the two actors as “beautifully sweet and heartbreaking.”
[Image of Meryl Streep in Cannes, May 2024]
[Image of Meryl Streep at the Cannes Film Festival 2024]
[Image of Meryl Streep and Martin Short in August 2024]
Streep’s consistent refusal to participate in “Actors on Actors” raises questions about her approach to publicity and her personal boundaries. While the reasons behind her decision remain private, her continued dedication to her craft and her willingness to connect with colleagues on a deeply personal level suggest a nuanced perspective on fame and artistic expression.
