Meryl Streep & Martin Short: Are They Dating? Unpacking The Rumors

Deborah Hill 22 Jun 2025

The world of Hollywood often serves up a delicious cocktail of talent, glamour, and, inevitably, a generous dash of speculation. Few recent celebrity pairings have captured the public imagination quite like the rumored romance between two titans of the screen, Meryl Streep and Martin Short. Their undeniable chemistry, both on and off-screen, has fueled a wildfire of questions: are Meryl Streep and Martin Short dating? This question has been on the lips of fans and tabloids alike, especially following their cozy appearances and whispers from inside sources.

From their delightful roles as love interests Loretta Durkin and Oliver Putnam in Hulu’s hit series Only Murders in the Building to their endearing interactions at high-profile events, the signs, for many, seem to point towards a blossoming connection. Yet, as with all things in the realm of celebrity, the truth can be more nuanced than the headlines suggest. This article delves deep into the origins of these rumors, examines the evidence, and brings clarity to the ongoing discussion surrounding the potential relationship between these two beloved septuagenarian actors.

Meryl Streep: A Living Legend's Journey
Martin Short: The Master of Mirth
The Spark on Screen: Meryl Streep and Martin Short in Only Murders in the Building
The Rumors Begin: Golden Globes and Beyond
Unpacking the "Over a Year" Revelation: Meryl Streep and Martin Short's Secret Romance?
The Comedian's Perspective: Amy Schumer's "Tea"
Martin Short's Definitive Answer: Are Meryl Streep and Martin Short Dating?
Navigating Speculation: Why Fans Are So Invested in Meryl Streep and Martin Short

Meryl Streep: A Living Legend's Journey

Before diving into the dating rumors, it's essential to understand the individual stature of these two artists. Meryl Streep, born Mary Louise Streep, is widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses of all time. Her career spans over five decades, marked by an unparalleled ability to transform into diverse characters, earning her a record 21 Academy Award nominations and three wins.

Early Life and Education

Born on June 22, 1949, in Summit, New Jersey, Meryl Streep showed an early aptitude for performance. She attended Vassar College, where she studied drama, and later earned her M.F.A. from the Yale School of Drama in 1975. Her rigorous training laid the groundwork for a career defined by meticulous preparation and profound emotional depth.

A Career Defined by Excellence

Streep's film debut was in 1977's Julia, but it was her roles in The Deer Hunter (1978) and Kramer vs. Kramer (1979), for which she won her first Oscar, that cemented her as a formidable talent. Her filmography is a testament to her versatility, encompassing dramas like Sophie's Choice (1982) and Out of Africa (1985), comedies like Death Becomes Her (1992) and The Devil Wears Prada (2006), and musicals such as Mamma Mia! (2008). Each role showcases her remarkable ability to embody complex characters with authenticity and nuance.

Personal Life and Family

Meryl Streep's personal life has largely remained private, a stark contrast to her public professional persona. She was married to sculptor Don Gummer for 45 years, from 1978 until their separation was revealed in October 2023. This revelation, which stunned fans, confirmed that the couple had been living separate lives for over six years. They share four children: Henry Wolfe Gummer, Mamie Gummer, Grace Gummer, and Louisa Jacobson Gummer, all of whom have pursued careers in the arts.

Martin Short: The Master of Mirth

Equally celebrated, though in a different comedic vein, is Martin Short. Known for his rapid-fire wit, impressionistic characters, and infectious energy, Short has carved out a unique niche in Hollywood.

Early Life and Comedy Roots

Born on March 26, 1950, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, Martin Hayter Short began his career in improvisational comedy. He was a key member of the legendary Toronto branch of The Second City, where he honed his comedic timing and character development skills. This foundation proved invaluable as he transitioned to television and film.

A Diverse and Enduring Career

Short gained widespread recognition for his work on SCTV and later Saturday Night Live, where he introduced iconic characters like Ed Grimley and Jackie Rogers Jr. His film career includes memorable roles in Three Amigos! (1986), Father of the Bride (1991), and Mars Attacks! (1996). Beyond comedy, he has also showcased his talents in dramatic roles and on Broadway, earning a Tony Award. His current role as Oliver Putnam in Only Murders in the Building has brought him renewed acclaim and introduced him to a new generation of fans.

Personal Life and Resilience

Martin Short's personal life has been marked by both profound joy and deep sorrow. He was married to actress Nancy Dolman from 1980 until her passing in 2010 due to ovarian cancer. They adopted three children: Katherine, Oliver, and Henry. Short has often spoken about his enduring love for Nancy and the resilience of his family in the face of loss. He has remained a widower, making any new romantic speculation about him particularly poignant for his fans.

The Spark on Screen: Meryl Streep and Martin Short in Only Murders in the Building

The genesis of the "Meryl Streep and Martin Short dating" rumors can be traced directly to their on-screen collaboration. Streep joined the cast of Hulu's Only Murders in the Building for Season 3, portraying Loretta Durkin, a struggling actress who becomes a love interest for Martin Short's character, Oliver Putnam. Their dynamic as Loretta Durkin and Oliver Putnam was nothing short of adorable. The chemistry between them was palpable, with their characters navigating a sweet, blossoming romance amidst the show's signature comedic mystery. Fans instantly fell in love with the pairing, and the natural ease of their performances led many to wonder if the affection extended beyond the script. Their roles continued into Season 4, with the duo appearing together at the season 4 premiere of Hulu's Only Murders in the Building at Paramount Studios on August 22, 2024, in Los Angeles, California, further solidifying their public connection.

The Rumors Begin: Golden Globes and Beyond

While their on-screen chemistry certainly laid the groundwork, the dating rumors truly exploded after the 2024 Golden Globes on Sunday, January 7. Meryl Streep and Martin Short were seated together at the awards ceremony, looking incredibly cozy and comfortable in each other's company. Images and videos of them laughing, whispering, and generally appearing very close quickly circulated online, sparking immediate speculation. The septuagenarian actors, who play love interests in Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building, ignited a firestorm of discussion. Their relaxed demeanor and apparent enjoyment of each other's company at such a high-profile event fueled the narrative that their on-screen romance might have spilled over into real life. Fans were particularly keen to see if Meryl Streep, 75, had indeed found love again after her cozy dinner date with Martin Short.

Unpacking the "Over a Year" Revelation: Meryl Streep and Martin Short's Secret Romance?

Amidst the swirling rumors, a significant report emerged that seemed to add considerable weight to the dating claims. Page Six, a prominent celebrity news outlet, reported that Meryl Streep and Martin Short may have been keeping fans in the dark on their relationship, but they had learned that the two have actually been dating for "well over a year now." This revelation suggested a long-standing, quiet romance, rather than a sudden development. According to new sources for Page Six, Streep and Short have been dating for "well over a year now." This timeline aligns with when Streep had just joined the Only Murders cast for Season 3 as Loretta, suggesting that their connection might have begun shortly after or during her initial involvement with the show. This would mean their relationship potentially predates the public revelation of Streep's separation from Don Gummer in October 2023, though it's important to note that her separation had occurred years prior. The report further stated that in 2024, things took a romantic twist, with a source reportedly telling Page Six in March 2025 that this development had occurred. The duo was even pictured in September 2024, and the pair reportedly held hands at an event for their hit Hulu series last August. These details, if true, painted a compelling picture of a quiet, deepening relationship between the two stars. The report that Meryl Streep and Martin Short have been quietly dating for over a year — working together on the show Only Murders in the Building — certainly captivated the public imagination. Whether the two of them are starring in the Hulu series Only Murders in the Building or sitting together at an awards show, their chemistry is undeniable.

The Comedian's Perspective: Amy Schumer's "Tea"

Adding another layer to the speculation was comedian Amy Schumer. Amid rumors the Only Murders in the Building costars may very well be dating, Schumer shared her "pov" after sitting next to them. In a now-deleted Instagram post, Schumer playfully suggested that Meryl Streep and Martin Short were indeed a couple. She captioned a photo of herself with Streep and Short at the Golden Globes with "Mamma Mia, Amy Schumer has some tea on Meryl Streep and Martin Short!" While Schumer's comments were clearly made in jest and with her characteristic humor, they further fueled the public's curiosity and reinforced the perception that something romantic was indeed brewing between the two actors. Her playful "tea" only made the public more eager for a definitive answer.

Martin Short's Definitive Answer: Are Meryl Streep and Martin Short Dating?

Despite the compelling reports from Page Six, the cozy Golden Globes appearance, and Amy Schumer's playful nudges, the definitive answer to "Are Meryl Streep and Martin Short dating?" comes directly from Martin Short himself, and it's a resounding "no." During an appearance on the Club Random with Bill Maher podcast in January 2024, Martin Short directly addressed the speculation. "We're not a couple," Short said, unequivocally shutting down the rumors. He further clarified that they are "just very close friends." This statement from Short, who has addressed the speculation that he and his recent Only Murders in the Building costar are a couple, serves as the most authoritative response to the persistent questions. Short's public denial stands in direct contrast to the Page Six report of a year-long secret romance. While celebrity gossip often thrives on conflicting narratives, Short's direct statement is difficult to refute. Meryl Streep has not publicly commented on the rumors, maintaining her characteristic privacy regarding her personal life. However, her silence, combined with Short's clear denial, suggests that the romantic speculation, while understandable given their chemistry, may not reflect the reality of their relationship. Meryl Streep and Martin Short at the premiere of Only Murders in the Building‘s fourth season in 2024 (Kevin Winter/Getty) continued to look comfortable together, but this doesn't necessarily indicate romance.

Navigating Speculation: Why Fans Are So Invested in Meryl Streep and Martin Short

The intense public interest in whether Meryl Streep and Martin Short are dating speaks volumes about their collective appeal and the human desire for compelling narratives. Here's why fans are so invested: * **Beloved Figures:** Both Streep and Short are revered figures in entertainment, known not only for their immense talent but also for their generally wholesome public images. The idea of two such beloved individuals finding companionship later in life is inherently heartwarming. * **On-Screen Chemistry:** Their portrayal of Loretta and Oliver in Only Murders in the Building was genuinely charming and believable. When actors have such strong on-screen chemistry, it's natural for audiences to hope that it extends into real life. Meryl Streep and Martin Short certainly have a lot of chemistry together. * **Recent Personal Changes:** Streep's revelation in October 2023 about her separation from her husband of 45 years made her appear newly available, prompting speculation about who she might connect with next. Short has been a widower for many years. * **The "Hollywood Romance" Trope:** There's a long-standing fascination with costars falling in love. It's a classic Hollywood narrative that continues to captivate. * **The Mystery Factor:** The conflicting reports—Page Six's "over a year" claim versus Short's clear denial—create an intriguing mystery that keeps the public guessing and discussing. Ultimately, while the desire for Meryl Streep and Martin Short to be dating is strong for many fans, Martin Short's direct statement seems to put the romantic speculation to rest. They are, by his own account, very close friends and colleagues who share a profound professional respect and a delightful personal rapport. Their bond, whether romantic or platonic, is clearly special and continues to be a joy for audiences to witness.

Conclusion

The question of whether Meryl Streep and Martin Short are dating has captivated the entertainment world, fueled by their undeniable on-screen chemistry in Only Murders in the Building and their cozy appearances at events like the 2024 Golden Globes. Reports from outlets like Page Six even suggested a quiet romance had been blossoming for "well over a year." However, the most direct and definitive answer comes from Martin Short himself, who unequivocally stated, "We're not a couple," clarifying that they are simply very close friends. While the idea of these two iconic actors finding love together is certainly appealing, the evidence, particularly Short's denial, points towards a deep, platonic friendship. Their enduring appeal and delightful dynamic will undoubtedly continue to charm audiences, whether they are portraying love interests or simply enjoying each other's company as esteemed colleagues. What do you think about the enduring fascination with Meryl Streep and Martin Short's relationship? Share your thoughts in the comments below! If you enjoyed this deep dive, be sure to explore our other articles on celebrity news and the magic of Hollywood's most beloved stars.

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