In the latest season of Hulu’s hit show “Only Murders in the Building,” Martin Short’s exuberant character, Oliver Putnam, found himself entangled in a romance with Meryl Streep’s quirky Loretta Durkin. The on-screen chemistry between the two powerhouse performers has led fans to wonder: Are Meryl Streep and Martin Short dating in real life?
Before sharing the screen in the 2023 comedy-mystery series, both Martin Short and Meryl Streep had already carved out illustrious careers in Hollywood. Martin, a Canadian actor, made a mark on Saturday Night Live in the ’80s and later found success on Broadway. Similarly, Meryl Streep’s breakthrough came in the late ’70s with her role in “The Deer Hunter,” as she seamlessly balanced a flourishing Broadway career.
The two Hollywood icons joined forces in “Only Murders in the Building,” a series that also stars Steve Martin and Selena Gomez. Steve Martin, a close friend of Martin Short, had previously worked with Meryl in the 2009 rom-com “It’s Complicated.” Interestingly, Meryl herself expressed her love for “Only Murders in the Building” before joining the cast.
According to co-creator John Hoffman, the idea of Meryl joining the series was initially seen as a dream. However, it quickly became a reality, with Meryl reaching out to Martin and Steve just two weeks after the concept was discussed.
Meryl Streep’s performance in the series earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actress. At the January 2024 ceremony, she was spotted sitting next to Martin Short in the audience. Throughout the night, the camera panned to the duo as they cheered on their Hollywood friends, sparking rumors of a romantic connection.
Clearing the Air: “Just Very Good Friends”
Amidst the swirling speculations, Martin Short issued a statement through his representative, affirming that he and Meryl Streep are “just very good friends, nothing more.” The statement aimed to dispel any notions of romantic involvement between the two acclaimed actors.
Adding fuel to the gossip mill was Meryl Streep’s announcement in October 2023 that she and her husband, Don Gummer, had been separated for more than six years. Despite the separation, Meryl continued to wear her wedding ring out of habit, according to insiders. In contrast, Martin Short, widowed since his wife Nancy Dolman’s passing in 2010 due to ovarian cancer, has navigated the complexities of life as a single individual.
In the world of Hollywood, where fiction and reality often intertwine, the story of Meryl Streep and Martin Short adds another layer of intrigue. While their on-screen chemistry is undeniable, the off-screen truth, according to Short’s statement, remains a platonic friendship.
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