Throwback Photos of Young Meryl Streep
Meryl Streep is turning 74, and to celebrate the supremely talented actress’ birthday, we’re rounding up some lesser-seen throwback photos from her early acting days.
From her role as scathing fashion tyrant Miranda Priestly in Devil Wears Prada, to portraying the carefree, Grecian-island-living Donna Sheridan in Mamma Mia!, Meryl Streep has repeatedly demonstrated her indubitable acting prowess. Often labeled the “best actress of our generation,” Streep has garnered a whopping 21 Oscar noms throughout her career thanks to her masterful technique and infamously subtle facial expressions, making her the most-nominated actor in the history of the Academy Awards.
Having studied drama at Yale University, Streep graduated in 1975 and made her Broadway debut that same year in Trelawny of the "Wells.” Streep’s breakout role, however, was in the 1978 film The Deer Hunter. Since then, the New Jersey native has starred in over 70 other titles including Sophie’s Choice and Silkwood (which she stars in alongside fellow icon Cher), winning the hearts and accolades of moviegoers around the world.
In honor of the beloved leading lady’s birthday, look back at the actress during her youth, before she became certified cinematic royalty.
The Seduction of Joe Tynan (1979).
A young, effortlessly elegant Streep.
The fresh-faced, young actress was in demand by the early '80s.
Photgraphed by Brigitte Lacombe in 1980.
Streep and Dustin Hoffman on the set of Kramer vs. Kramer, 1979.
Streep with her Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Kramer vs. Kramer at the 1980 Oscar Awards Ceremony.
Streep sporting a The River Wild cap.
Sophie's Choice (1982).
Photographed with her beau, Don Gummer.
Streep and The Hours co-stars Nicole Kidman and Julianne Moore at a 2002 promotional photoshoot.
