Meryl Streep is a name synonymous with excellence in acting. Often referred to as the greatest actress of her generation, she has captivated audiences for decades with her extraordinary range, emotional depth, and transformative performances. With countless awards and an unmatched legacy, fans continue to admire every aspect of her life and career — and one question that people often search for is, how tall is Meryl Streep?
In this in-depth article, we’ll explore everything you should know about Meryl Streep, including her height, early life, education, parents, children, personal life, and current endeavors. Whether you’re a longtime fan or simply curious, this is your complete guide to the life of a living legend.
Quick Bio – Meryl Streep
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mary Louise Streep |
| Stage Name | Meryl Streep |
| Date of Birth | June 22, 1949 |
| Place of Birth | Summit, New Jersey, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) |
| Age (2025) | 75 years old |
| Profession | Actress, Producer |
| Years Active | 1971–present |
| Marital Status | Widowed (spouse: Don Gummer, m. 1978–2023) |
| Children | 4 |
| Notable Works | Sophie’s Choice, The Devil Wears Prada, Doubt, Kramer vs. Kramer, Mamma Mia! |
| Awards | 3 Academy Awards, 8 Golden Globes, 2 Emmys |
Who Is Meryl Streep?
Meryl Streep, born Mary Louise Streep, is an iconic American actress known for her ability to fully embody a wide range of characters. With a career spanning more than five decades, she is regarded as one of the most influential and respected actors in the history of cinema.
Meryl Streep has received 21 Academy Award nominations (the most in history) and 3 Oscar wins, along with 32 Golden Globe nominations. Her diverse roles — from tragic dramas to sharp comedies — showcase her unmatched range. In addition to her screen work, Streep is a passionate advocate for women’s rights, arts education, and environmental conservation.
Early Life and Background
Mary Louise Streep was born on June 22, 1949, in Summit, New Jersey, and raised in the nearby township of Bernardsville. Growing up in a well-educated and supportive family, Meryl was exposed to the arts from a young age. Her mother encouraged her to pursue creativity and instilled confidence that she could do anything she set her mind to.
She began taking opera lessons at the age of 12, but her passion shifted toward acting in high school. Her early exposure to classical music, theater, and literature laid the groundwork for her future as a powerful, multifaceted performer.
Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2025, Meryl Streep is 75 years old. Despite being in her seventh decade of life, she continues to defy expectations with her energy, poise, and professionalism.
How Tall is Meryl Streep?
A frequently asked question: How tall is Meryl Streep?
Meryl Streep stands at 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) tall. Her height, along with her graceful posture and commanding presence, has helped her take on a variety of characters ranging from political leaders and matriarchs to vulnerable women and comic leads.
Her striking features, blonde hair, and signature elegance have made her an enduring icon of classic beauty in Hollywood.
Education
Meryl Streep’s academic journey reflects her deep intellectual and artistic capabilities. She attended Bernards High School, where her early acting potential became evident. After graduation, she went on to study at Vassar College, majoring in Drama and English.
Later, she earned a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree from the prestigious Yale School of Drama, where she refined her acting skills. At Yale, she appeared in over a dozen stage productions and built the foundation for her future film and stage career.
Her education emphasized classical training, which gave her the tools to perform a wide range of roles across genres and periods — from Shakespearean plays to modern cinema.
Her Father – Harry William Streep Jr.
Harry William Streep Jr. was Meryl’s father, a pharmaceutical executive with a strong work ethic and a passion for learning. He had German and Swiss ancestry and instilled in his daughter the values of discipline, curiosity, and excellence.
Meryl has spoken fondly about her father in interviews, noting how his support and quiet strength helped shape her confidence and determination.
Her Mother – Mary Wilkinson Streep
Mary Wilkinson Streep, Meryl’s mother, was an artist and a commercial art editor. She was a powerful figure in Meryl’s life — supportive, creative, and endlessly encouraging.
Mary saw potential in her daughter early on and taught her to believe in herself, no matter the odds. Meryl often credits her mother’s unwavering belief in her as the driving force behind her success.
Mary passed away in 2001, but her legacy lives on through Meryl’s work and values.
Children
Meryl Streep has four children, all of whom have found their own paths in the arts and entertainment.
Meryl Streep’s Children:
- Henry Wolfe Gummer – Born in 1979, he is a musician and actor.
- Mary Willa “Mamie” Gummer – Born in 1983, she is an actress known for roles in The Good Wife and Emily Owens, M.D.
- Grace Gummer – Born in 1986, also an actress; has appeared in Mr. Robot and American Horror Story.
- Louisa Jacobson – Born in 1991, she is an actress and model, recently starring in HBO’s The Gilded Age.
All four children are from her marriage to sculptor Don Gummer, with whom she shared a long and private partnership until his passing in 2023.
Meryl is known for her dedication to her family and for maintaining a grounded home life despite her global fame.
Current Life
As of 2025, Meryl Streep remains active in film, television, and public life. While she has taken fewer roles in recent years, each of her performances continues to be an event. Her recent work includes projects on streaming platforms and select independent films.
She is also deeply involved in philanthropy, supporting causes such as:
- Women’s rights and gender equality
- Environmental protection
- Arts education and funding for public schools
- Humanitarian aid and global health initiatives
Despite her fame, Meryl leads a relatively private life, valuing her family and staying out of celebrity gossip columns. She divides her time between homes in Connecticut and New York.
Conclusion
So, how tall is Meryl Streep?
She is 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) tall — but in terms of talent, influence, and legacy, Meryl Streep towers over most in the entertainment industry.
This iconic actress has not only redefined what it means to be a performer but has also become a symbol of resilience, intellect, and elegance. With decades of groundbreaking roles and a career that shows no signs of slowing down, Meryl Streep continues to inspire new generations of artists and audiences alike.
From her modest beginnings in New Jersey to the global spotlight, this article has offered everything you should know about Meryl Streep — the woman, the icon, the legend.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How tall is Meryl Streep?
A: Meryl Streep is 5 feet 6 inches tall (168 cm).
Q2: What is Meryl Streep’s real name?
A: Her full name is Mary Louise Streep.
Q3: How old is Meryl Streep in 2025?
A: She is 75 years old, born on June 22, 1949.
Q4: Is Meryl Streep married?
A: Meryl was married to sculptor Don Gummer from 1978 until his death in 2023.
