OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author’s opinion.
In a Hollywood where the brightest stars often burn out, one name continues to shine year after year: Meryl Streep. With a career spanning over five decades, Streep has become the gold standard for acting excellence. Her ability to seamlessly adapt to any role—whether it’s drama, comedy, or a musical—has earned her a reputation as one of the greatest actors of all time. But as it turns out, Streep’s talent has left a lasting impression on even the most seasoned of stars, including the legendary Cher.
Cher, whose career spans both the music and film industries, has worked alongside a multitude of Hollywood’s finest—from Kurt Russell to Nicolas Cage. But when it comes to Meryl Streep, the “Believe” singer has a unique perspective. Cher, in her usual candid style, compared Streep’s acting to a “killing machine,” likening her to a shark. “That’s what she was born to be,” Cher mused.
This remark may seem hyperbolic at first, but when you consider Streep’s illustrious career, it begins to make sense. Since her debut in 1977’s Julia, Meryl Streep has been a constant force in the film industry. With over 21 Academy Award nominations (more than any other actor), her performances are consistently praised for their depth, versatility, and commitment. Whether she’s playing a politician, a fashion mogul, or a singing mother in a hit musical, Streep does it all with an intensity and grace that leaves audiences in awe.
From her powerful role in Kramer vs. Kramer to the unforgettable portrayal of Sophie in Sophie’s Choice, Streep’s performances are never anything short of extraordinary. It’s no surprise that even her peers are in awe of her talent. Mike Nichols, director of Silkwood, once said, “Meryl is actually great… There is no other performer I would say this of.” Fellow screenwriter Nora Ephron echoed those sentiments, calling Streep’s talent “genius.”
Cher’s comparison to a shark isn’t just a throwaway comment; it’s a reflection of the precision and power Streep brings to her craft. Just as a shark moves through water with deadly grace, Streep navigates her characters with an unmatched level of skill and authenticity.
What’s remarkable about Meryl Streep is not just her ability to bring her characters to life, but her willingness to take on any role, no matter the genre. From the highbrow prestige of The Iron Lady to the comedy of The Devil Wears Prada and the musical numbers in Mamma Mia!, Streep has never been afraid to embrace the unknown. Even in the more forgettable films she’s been part of, her performance always stands out as a beacon of excellence.
Perhaps it’s this relentless pursuit of perfection that has earned her the admiration of Hollywood’s elite. Cher’s words also point to something more: a kind of inevitability in Streep’s success. Like a shark destined to hunt, Meryl Streep was born to be an acting powerhouse, and the industry has only been fortunate to witness it.
As the world continues to watch Meryl Streep’s extraordinary journey unfold, one thing is certain: this “killing machine” of a performer isn’t going anywhere. And Hollywood is all the better for it.