An Open Letter from Meryl Streep.
To Hollywood, my beloved fans, and the whole entertainment industry,
As I sit to write this letter, my heart is filled with gratitude and astonishment for the trip we have taken together. A journey that began with cautious first steps, guided by dreams, and bolstered by an intense passion for storytelling. Today, decades later, I reflect on the rich tapestry of my career, which has been stitched with your unfailing support, belief, and generosity.
To Hollywood, thank you for welcoming a young woman from New Jersey with big dreams. You taught me resilience, the importance of teamwork, and the limitless potential of narrative. You have challenged me with roles that have pushed the boundaries of my creativity and ability over the years, and I will be eternally grateful for the trust you have in me. From The Deer Hunter to Sophie’s Choice, The Devil Wears Prada to The Post, each part has been a transformative experience for me, and I owe it all to the innumerable visionaries, directors, writers, producers, and crew members who contributed their brilliance and passion.
To my fans, your devotion has been the foundation of my work. You accepted me as a woman with multiple personalities, from fierce to fragile, and allowed me to accompany you through the countless stories we’ve brought to life together. Your emails, words of encouragement, and audience cheers have all been like the wind beneath my wings. You’ve not only applauded my accomplishments, but also supported me during times of doubt, reminding me of why we do what we do: to connect, inspire, and heal through the power of art.
I salute the entertainment community—the authors, actors, crew, and unsung heroes who make each production possible. This world we live in is not without its troubles, but it also contains great beauty and creativity. You’ve showed me the power of togetherness, teamwork, and believing in a common vision. Together, we’ve demonstrated that art has the ability to break down barriers, stimulate conversations, and uncover truth.
Finally, I advise the next generation of artists and visionaries to embrace their authenticity and believe in their own voices. The world needs your stories, your bravery, and your limitless imagination.
As I look forward, my thankfulness grows for this remarkable life, for the friendships formed, the lessons learnt, and the privilege of being a member of a community that has given me so much. I am grateful to have shared this journey with all of you, and I hope to continue exploring the beauty and complexity of the human experience via our shared love of storytelling.
With my whole heart,
Meryl Streep