Childhood and Education Journey of Meryl Streep in Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Meryl Streep. From birth to education, explore key events.

Meryl Streep is a highly acclaimed American actress, widely regarded as one of the best of her generation due to her versatility and mastery of accents. Over her five-decade career, she has amassed numerous awards, including three Academy Awards, two British Academy Film Awards, eight Golden Globe Awards, four Emmy Awards, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards. She has also been nominated for seven Grammy Awards and a Tony Award, showcasing her diverse talents across various entertainment mediums.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

June 22, 1949: Meryl Streep's birth

On June 22, 1949, Mary Louise "Meryl" Streep was born. She is an American actress known for her versatility.

Others born on this day/year

1963: Family moved to Bernardsville, New Jersey

In 1963, Meryl Streep's family moved to Bernardsville, New Jersey, where she attended Bernards High School.

1969: Acted in Miss Julie at Vassar College

In 1969, Meryl Streep acted in the play Miss Julie at Vassar College, gaining attention across the campus.

1970: Enrolled as a visiting student at Dartmouth College

In 1970, Meryl Streep enrolled as a visiting student at Dartmouth College.

1971: Received AB in Drama from Vassar College

In 1971, Meryl Streep received her AB in drama cum laude from Vassar College.

1975: Received MFA in Drama from Yale

In 1975, Meryl Streep received her MFA in drama from Yale.

1975: First Professional Jobs and Move to New York City

In 1975, Meryl Streep's first professional job was at the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center's National Playwrights Conference. She also moved to New York City and was cast in Trelawny of the Wells.

March 12, 1978: Death of John Cazale

On March 12, 1978, John Cazale, Meryl Streep's partner, passed away after battling lung cancer. Streep nursed him until his death.

1981: Leading role in The French Lieutenant's Woman

In 1981, Meryl Streep played her first leading role in The French Lieutenant's Woman, co-starring with Jeremy Irons. She developed an English accent for the part and found the media coverage at the time excessive.

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1981: Received honorary Doctor of Arts degree from Dartmouth College

In 1981, Meryl Streep received an honorary Doctor of Arts degree from Dartmouth College.

1990: Screen Actor's Guild National Women's Conference

In 1990, Meryl Streep keynoted the Screen Actor's Guild National Women's Conference, emphasizing the decline in women's work opportunities, pay parity, and role models within the film industry. She criticized the film industry for downplaying the importance of women both on screen and off.