Meryl Streep and Martin Short are all the buzz in Hollywood as rumors swirl around their relationship status, igniting hopes for a wedding. At 75 and 74 years old respectively, the celebrated actors are making headlines not just for their illustrious careers but for their undeniable chemistry—both on and off-screen. Fans have been speculating about their romance since they were spotted looking cozy together at the 2024 Golden Globes Awards earlier this year. Despite both stars' representatives insisting they are merely 'just friends,' the compelling evidence suggests something more.
As if their public appearances have not already heightened the speculation, Streep and Short have been seen attending several Broadway shows together, and at the season-four premiere of their hit series, Only Murders in the Building, were seen holding hands. John Hoffman, co-creator of the show, stated they "delighted in each other on-screen and off-screen, in every way," further stoking the romantic fire. After all, the pair portray love interests on the show, and it appears their on-screen chemistry has transcended into real life.
Delving deeper into their connection, both stars share a poignant history of loss that has forged a bond between them. Streep faced the tragic loss of her former partner, John Cazale, who succumbed to lung cancer in 1978, leaving a profound impact on her life. Similarly, Martin Short's wife of three decades, Nancy Dolman, passed away from cancer in 2010, altering his world forever. An insider recently revealed, "They’ve bonded over their shared experiences of love and loss. Neither was looking for romance, but their connection just felt natural." This shared grief may have laid the groundwork for a profound friendship that potentially blossomed into romance.
However, as rumors continue to fly, a source close to the couple has clarified that marriage is currently off the table for Streep and Short. While Streep is still legally married to Don Gummer—a relationship that has been on the rocks since their separation in 2017—the couple is choosing to savor their companionship as 'boyfriend and girlfriend.' The source added, "Meryl is still legally married to Don (Gummer), but even if she were divorced, that’s just not something she or Martin is interested in. " Why rush a wedding when they’re enjoying the present moment?
Nevertheless, the latest buzz has suggested that Streep and Short might be more serious than previously thought. New reports shared that they are tentatively discussing plans for a small wedding ceremony in Southern California. According to the insider, they are particularly fond of romantic getaways to Santa Barbara and surrounding wine country, making The Ritz-Carlton Bacara—a venue known for its discretion—an obvious front-runner as a potential wedding site. "They love taking romantic trips to Santa Barbara and the wine country around there, so that would definitely be a frontrunner when it comes to [a wedding location]," remarked the source.
The couple is planning what they term a 'very A-list affair,' although they are not inclined toward extravagant festivities. Friends such as Tom Hanks, Rita Wilson, and fellow actor Steve Martin are potential invites, with the latter rumored to even be Short's best man. With seven children and eight grandchildren between them, the hypothetical guest list is expected to be significant—potentially at least 50 attendees. As the source noted, "Knowing Meryl, she will want to keep it pretty low-key, but they do enjoy a good time, so it’s bound to be a party." Who wouldn’t want to be a fly on the wall at such a star-studded event?
Moreover, the nature of their relationship seems to echo the narrative of their on-screen characters Loretta and Oliver from Only Murders in the Building, who tied the knot in the show’s fourth season finale. The parallels between fiction and their real lives are not lost on their fans, who are fervently supporting their journey.
While wedding bells may be in their future, it is also noteworthy that Streep remains incredibly dedicated to her acting career. Currently, she is set to reprise her iconic role as Miranda Priestley in the much-anticipated sequel of The Devil Wears Prada, and is keen to participate in the long-rumored third installment of Mamma Mia!. Amidst all the excitement surrounding their romance and professional lives, it seems that love, laughter, and companionship abound.
In a world where cynicism surrounding love prevails, the story of Meryl Streep and Martin Short is a refreshing reminder that connections can flourish at any stage of life. Whether their bond is romantic or platonic, their tale embodies hope and happiness—certainly a feel-good narrative worth celebrating. For now, their fans can only wish them all the best, eagerly anticipating what the future holds for these two gifted stars.
