Lasting Legacy of Meryl Streep: A Look at the Influence on History

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Meryl Streep

How the contributions of Meryl Streep continue to shape the world today.

Meryl Streep is a highly acclaimed American actress celebrated for her versatility, mastery of accents, and impactful performances. Often regarded as one of the greatest actresses of her generation, her career spans over five decades. She has received three Academy Awards, two British Academy Film Awards, eight Golden Globe Awards, four Emmy Awards, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards. Streep has also earned nominations for seven Grammy Awards and a Tony Award, solidifying her reputation as a versatile and accomplished performer across various media.

1981: Planning for the future

In 1981, Meryl Streep spoke about the limited opportunities for actresses in their mid-forties and the need to carefully choose roles when balancing a career with raising children.

2003: Honorary César

In 2003, Meryl Streep received an Honorary César.

2004: AFI Life Achievement Award

In 2004, Meryl Streep received the AFI Life Achievement Award.

2006: Sophie's Choice Legacy

In 2006, Emma Brockes of The Guardian described the 'choice' scene in Sophie's Choice as Meryl Streep's most famous, highlighting her ability to handle difficult emotions in the performance.

2008: Gala Tribute from the Film Society of Lincoln Center

In 2008, Meryl Streep received a Gala Tribute from the Film Society of Lincoln Center.

2008: Critical appraisal of Plenty performance

In 2008, Molly Haskell praised Meryl Streep's performance in the 1985 film Plenty, describing it as one of Streep's most difficult, ambiguous, and feminist roles.

2010: National Medal of Arts

In 2010, President Barack Obama awarded Meryl Streep the National Medal of Arts.

2011: Kennedy Center Honor

In 2011, Meryl Streep received the Kennedy Center Honor.

2012: Honorary Golden Bear

In 2012, Meryl Streep received an Honorary Golden Bear.

2014: Presidential Medal of Freedom

In 2014, President Barack Obama awarded Meryl Streep the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

2015: Fonda's Lasting Influence

In 2015, Meryl Streep stated that Jane Fonda had a lasting influence on her as an actress.

March 2016: Signing of Letter for Gender Equality

In March 2016, Meryl Streep signed a letter asking for gender equality throughout the world, in observance of International Women's Day.

2017: Introduced Carmen de Lavallade at Kennedy Center Honors

In 2017, Meryl Streep introduced choreographer Carmen de Lavallade at the Kennedy Center Honors.

2017: Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award

In 2017, Meryl Streep received the Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award.

2024: Honorary Palme d'Or

In 2024, Meryl Streep received the Honorary Palme d'Or.