Watch The Hollywood Legend's Career Defining Roles, Now Streaming On Disney+

Felix Dubois

5 min read

Post on May 23, 2025

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Unforgettable Early Roles: Shaping a Legacy

Breakthrough Performances:

Meryl Streep's early career was marked by a series of powerful performances that quickly established her as a force to be reckoned with. These early roles showcased her remarkable range and laid the foundation for her future success.

• "Julia" (1977): Streep's captivating performance in this television miniseries earned her early critical acclaim and demonstrated her ability to portray complex characters with depth and nuance. [Link to Disney+ page for "Julia," if available]. This early career role highlighted her dramatic skills and set the stage for future success in the film industry.
• "The Deer Hunter" (1978): This powerful drama solidified Streep's position as a rising star, showcasing her ability to handle emotionally demanding roles. [Link to Disney+ page for "The Deer Hunter," if available]. The film itself became a cultural touchstone, further amplifying Streep's breakthrough performance.
• "Kramer vs Kramer" (1979): This Oscar-winning performance as Joanna Kramer propelled Streep into the A-list, demonstrating her versatility in handling both dramatic and emotionally challenging roles. [Link to Disney+ page for "Kramer vs Kramer," if available]. This breakthrough role solidified her position as a leading actress and a major award contender.

Genre-Defining Performances:

Even in her early career, Streep demonstrated remarkable versatility, tackling diverse genres and defying expectations.

• "Sophie's Choice" (1982): A harrowing portrayal of a Holocaust survivor, this role showcased Streep's exceptional dramatic abilities and earned her an Academy Award. [Link to Disney+ page for "Sophie's Choice," if available]. This genre-bending performance moved audiences and critics alike, highlighting her dedication to truly embodying her characters.
• "Silkwood" (1983): Streep played Karen Silkwood, a whistleblower who met a mysterious end, delivering a compelling performance in a film that delved into social and political themes. [Link to Disney+ page for "Silkwood," if available]. This role showcased Streep's commitment to tackling complex and socially relevant topics.

Iconic Roles: Cementing Hollywood Stardom

Signature Performances:

Meryl Streep's filmography is filled with iconic roles that have become ingrained in popular culture. These performances defined a generation and cemented her status as a true Hollywood legend.

• "Out of Africa" (1985): Her portrayal of Karen Blixen in this epic romance earned Streep another Academy Award nomination. [Link to Disney+ page for "Out of Africa," if available]. This iconic performance cemented her status as a leading lady in the classic Hollywood sense.
• "The Devil Wears Prada" (2006): This comedic performance as the formidable Miranda Priestly showcased a different side of Streep, further highlighting her versatility. [Link to Disney+ page for "The Devil Wears Prada," if available]. This role became a cultural touchstone, highlighting her comedic timing as well as her dramatic prowess.

“Her performance is nothing short of brilliant,” raved one critic of her role in "The Devil Wears Prada," capturing the widespread acclaim surrounding the film and Streep's performance.

Awards and Recognition:

Streep's exceptional talent has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. Her remarkable performances have garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying her place as one of cinema's most celebrated actresses.

• Three Academy Awards: Streep has won three Oscars, a testament to her consistent excellence and her ability to embody a wide range of characters with depth and believability.
• Numerous Golden Globe Awards: She holds the record for most Golden Globe nominations and wins, solidifying her status as a top-tier performer.
• Critics' Acclaim: Her performances have consistently earned rave reviews from critics around the world, cementing her reputation for excellence.

Later Career Highlights: A Continuous Evolution

Mature Roles and Artistic Exploration:

Even in her later career, Meryl Streep continues to challenge herself, taking on diverse and complex roles that showcase her artistry and maturity.

• "Doubt" (2008): This intense drama demonstrated Streep's ability to portray moral ambiguity with compelling nuance. [Link to Disney+ page for "Doubt," if available]. This later-career role showed her continued exploration of complex characters and mature themes.
• "August: Osage County" (2013): This emotionally charged family drama showcased Streep's raw talent and her capacity to portray a character grappling with grief and addiction. [Link to Disney+ page for "August: Osage County," if available]. This role further showcases her commitment to portraying difficult and emotionally complex characters.

Legacy and Enduring Impact:

Meryl Streep's influence on cinema and popular culture is undeniable. Her dedication to her craft, her versatility, and her enduring talent have inspired generations of actors and filmmakers. Her lasting legacy as a Hollywood legend is cemented by her extensive filmography and the numerous accolades she has received throughout her career. Her contributions to the art of acting are irrefutable, securing her place in cinema history.

Conclusion

Meryl Streep's career is a testament to her unparalleled talent and dedication to her craft. From her early breakthrough performances to her iconic later-career roles, her filmography offers a captivating exploration of acting prowess. The convenience of streaming these Hollywood legend's career-defining roles on Disney+ makes it easier than ever to witness the magic firsthand. Start your streaming journey today and witness the magic of Meryl Streep's career-defining roles, exclusively on Disney+! [Link to Meryl Streep's Disney+ page, if available]