Meryl Streep is aptly one of the most celebrated actresses in the history of modern cinema. Her roles in Kramer vs Kramer, Sophie’s Choice, The Devil Wears Prada and Mama Mia! demonstrate her longevity and ability to add a layer to her portrayals that make them seem unique to her skillset.
In the latest news about the Julie & Julia star, Meryl Streep recently appeared on a Today show panel with her The Devil Wears Prada 2 cast mates Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci. During the conversation, Streep revealed that contract negotiations could have ultimately prevented her from ever assuming the role of Miranda Priestly, although luckily, that crisis was averted.
The film icon shared:
“I knew it was going to be a hit. I read the script — the script was great. They called me up, and they made an offer, and I said ‘No. I’m not going to do it.’ I wanted to see if I doubled my ask, and they went right away and said ‘Sure.’”
She added:
“I’m 56 years [old] — it took me this long to understand that I could do that! I was sure of it. I was sure it would be a hit. And they needed me, I felt. And I wanted it, but if they didn’t want to do that, I was okay. Because I’m old — I’m 56, I was ready to retire.”
The negotiation tactic ended up working out well for Meryl Streep, who continues to forge her path forward in the industry at the age of 76.
More from Meryl Streep’s Today appearance
Meryl Streep seemed to be extremely open and forthright in her recent Today show panel appearance alongside her The Devil Wears Prada 2 cast members. She spoke very highly of her friendship with Stanley Tucci while also naming another famous friend who ends up being more of a hindrance on game nights:
“I love Stanley. We have played a lot of charades together at various parties. Try not to get Robert DeNiro on our team because he’s the worst.”
Anne Hathaway then added:
“Oh, but I bet it’s so heartwarming.”
Before Streep chimed back in with a brutal assessment of her friend:
“Very shy and he’s just not good at it.”
Meryl Streep and Robert DeNiro’s friendship also includes several film collaborations over the years, including most famously, 1978’s The Deer Hunter.
For more on this story or other developing news, check out Soap Central!
Edited by Amey Mirashi