In a surprising revelation, celebrated actress Meryl Streep and her husband, sculptor Don Gummer, have been leading separate lives for over six years, sources confirmed.
The representative for the 74-year-old Academy Award winner, Streep, made a formal announcement on October 21, stating, "Don Gummer and Meryl Streep have been separated for more than 6 years, and while they will always care for each other, they have chosen lives apart."
Many were taken aback, especially given Streep's recent appearance at the Princesa de Asturias Awards 2023 where she was spotted with her wedding ring intact. The last time the duo graced the public sphere together was at the 2018 Academy Awards, with Gummer proudly accompanying Streep, who was celebrating her remarkable 21st Oscar nomination.
Meryl Streep and husband of 45 years, Don Gummer, have been separated for over 6 years, sources tell Page Six. pic.twitter.com/OfmdTuFOJ4 — Pop Crave (@PopCrave) October 21, 2023
The couple's love story began in 1978 when Streep's brother introduced her to Gummer. It was a period of mourning for Streep, having recently lost her boyfriend and "Deer Hunter" co-star John Cazale to lung cancer. Despite the circumstances, love blossomed swiftly between her and Gummer, culminating in a wedding within the same year.
Their shared life resulted in four children: Henry, 43, a singer-songwriter; Mamie, 40, and Grace, 37, both actresses; and Louisa, 32, known for her lead role in HBO's "The Gilded Age." Additionally, the couple enjoys the joys of grandparenthood with five grandchildren.
While the couple primarily resided in their Connecticut compound, they also owned a vast Tribeca loft, which they sold in 2020. Shortly after, Streep purchased a home in Pasadena, California.
Through the years, Streep, seen most recently in Hulu's "Only Murders in the Building", and Gummer maintained a low profile about their personal life. Yet, in an intimate 2002 Vogue interview, Streep offered a glimpse into their relationship, noting, "Goodwill and willingness to bend - and to shut up every once in a while," were essential elements. She emphasized the importance of balance in her life, stating, "I have a holistic need to work and to have huge ties of love in my life."
An emblematic moment reflecting their bond was during Streep's 2012 acceptance speech for her role in "The Iron Lady." She began her acknowledgments with Gummer, expressing, "I want him to know that everything I value most in our lives, you've given me."
Throughout their time together, Gummer remained Streep's steadfast companion, especially evident during her numerous Oscar appearances. The actress, having been nominated a record 21 times, always had Gummer by her side, celebrating her cinematic achievements.
While the specifics of their separation remain private, the enduring love and respect between Streep and Gummer is evident in their shared history and mutual admiration.
