Why Meryl Streep is every actress’s benchmark

Meryl Streep has embodied such a wide variety of characters across genres that it's difficult to pin her down.

In the world of acting, few names carry as much weight and reverence as Meryl Streep. With a career spanning over four decades and more accolades than can be easily counted, Meryl Streep has become more than just an icon. For generations of performers, she isn’t just admired, but she’s the ideal goal. But why exactly is Meryl Streep considered every actress’s benchmark?

First and foremost, it's the range. Meryl Streep has embodied such a wide variety of characters across genres that it's difficult to pin her down. From the hauntingly raw performance in Sophie’s Choice to the icy brilliance of Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada, to her comedic timing in Mamma Mia!, she proves again and again that there’s no role she can’t transform into gold.

Unmatched consistency and craft

There’s this remarkable consistency in Meryl Streep that is beyond compare. In an industry where even the most talented stars have ups and downs, Meryl has remained a pillar of excellence. She’s been nominated for an Academy Award more times than any other actor in history (21 times), and won three. Although, awards only tell a part of her story. Whether it's a major Hollywood production or an indie drama, she brings a level of craft and depth that elevates the material.

A role model of integrity

Younger actors often name her as their role model not only because of her performances but also because of her integrity. Meryl Streep has never relied on celebrity culture to stay relevant. She lets her work do the talking.

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The legacy

Actors like Saoirse Ronan, Florence Pugh, and Viola Davis have openly expressed their admiration for Meryl Streep, not just for her skill but for the way she’s navigated the industry on her own terms. Meryl Streep’s legacy is not just about awards or iconic roles. It’s about making the art of acting feel limitless, inspiring others to dig deeper, reach higher, and believe that great performances can come at any age, in any genre, and on any stage.