Meryl Streep: A Masterful Journey through Movies & TV

Who Is Meryl Streep?

Mary Louise Meryl Streep, born on June 22, 1949, in Summit, New Jersey, is widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses of her era. Her emotional depth, accent mastery, and transformative performances have set her apart in Hollywood’s history.

Early Life & Education

Meryl Streep grew up in a creative yet disciplined household, with her father working as a pharmaceutical executive and her mother pursuing a career in the arts. She earned a BA from Vassar College and an MFA in Drama from Yale University, where she honed her craft before stepping onto the theatrical and then cinematic stage.

Film Career Highlights

Breakthrough & Iconic Performances

Streep’s debut in Julia (1977) paved the way for her breakout role in Kramer vs. Kramer 1979), which earned her her first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She later won Best Actress Oscars for Sophie’s Choice (1982) and The Iron Lady (2011).

Highest-Grossing Films

• Mamma Mia! (2008) remains her highest-grossing film, with over $602.6 million worldwide.

• The Devil Wears Prada (2006) follows, with $326.7 million in global box office.

IMDb ranking confirms:

1. Mamma Mia!

2. The Devil Wears Prada

3. Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again

4. It’s Complicated

5. Into the Woods

Other Noteworthy Films

Beyond her blockbusters, Streep has delivered powerful performances in Silkwood, Out of Africa, The Bridges of Madison County, Julie & Julia, Doubt, Little Women, Florence Foster Jenkins, The Post, and many more.

Television & Streaming Work

Notable Shows & Miniseries

Streep’s impressive TV work includes:

• Holocaust (1978) – won Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress

• Angels in America (2003) – HBO miniseries, earned Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress

• Big Little Lies Season 2 (2019) – Emmy-nominated role

• Only Murders in the Building (2023–present) – Emmy-nominated guest role

Earnings from TV

She is said to have made $800,000 for each episode of Big Little Lies Season 2.

Earnings & Net Worth

Career Earnings & Wealth

As of 2025, Meryl Streep’s net worth is estimated to be about $100 million.

Here’s a breakdown:

• Film earnings: ~ $65M (65%)

• Real estate: ~ $20M (20%)

• TV & streaming: ~ $8M (8%)

• Investments, royalties, etc.: the rest.

Salary Highlights

• 1978 (The Deer Hunter): ~$35,000

• 1979 (Kramer vs. Kramer): ~$85,000 (equivalent today ~$340K)

• 1980s: ~$4 million per film

• The Devil Wears Prada (2006): ~$5M

• Mamma Mia! (2008): ~$3M

• The Iron Lady (2011): $1M (donated to Women’s History Museum)

Modern film projects can bring her up to $20M upfront, plus backend profit participation.

Awards & Honors

• Academy Awards: 3 wins (Kramer vs. Kramer, Sophie’s Choice, The Iron Lady) from 21 nominations.

• Numerous Golden Globes, Emmys, BAFTAs, and SAG Awards.

• Lifetime honors include the AFI Life Achievement Award (2004), the Kennedy Center Honor (2011), Honorary Palme d’Or (2024), National Medal of Arts (2010), and Presidential Medal of Freedom (2014), among others.

Why She’s So Celebrated

• Unmatched versatility: From emotionally intense dramas to musicals and comedic roles.

• Trailblazer in her 60s and beyond: Leading films like Julie & Julia and Mamma Mia! defied age expectations for actresses.

• Credibility in performance: Critics and audiences alike praise her ability to fully embody a character.

Summary Table

See more: Emma Stone Movies and TV Shows

Conclusion

From her humble beginnings to her status as an enduring legend, Meryl Streep movies and TV shows reflect a career defined by depth, range, and excellence. Whether thrilling audiences with emotional drama or commanding presence in award-winning TV, she continues to set standards in storytelling and performance.