Martin Short Opens Up About Working With Meryl Streep on 'Only Murders in the Building'

Martin Short Says He Was Nervous to Work With Meryl Streep on Only Murders in the Building 311

Martin Short, Meryl Streep. Getty Images (2)

Despite his extensive experience of over 40 years in acting, Martin Short admitted to feeling anxious when working with Hollywood legends like Meryl Streep.

At a recent For Your Consideration event captured by The Hollywood Reporter on Friday, March 1, Short, 73, expressed his excitement about collaborating with Streep, 74, on Only Murders in the Building. He described it as one of the greatest thrills of his life.

Short confessed that even though he is not new to the industry, he found himself feeling nervous on the first day of shooting with Streep. He recalled driving to work and thinking, "I'm nervous today. I'm working with Meryl Streep."

Streep mentioned that before she joined the show in season 3, she was a big fan of it, which also features Steve Martin and Selena Gomez.

She had a great time working with Martin on the 2009 film It’s Complicated and found the experience to be "really fun." This positive experience led her to directly reach out to Martin in order to secure a spot on the show.

"I actually called them up and asked. Who wouldn't want to be on this show? Clearly, everyone does because Eugene Levy, Molly Shannon, and Eva Longoria will all be appearing in the upcoming season 4. They must be putting up barriers to keep these actors out. I was a big fan of the show, but I also just wanted to have some fun because the world is pretty tough right now."

In the midst of the conversation, Gomez, 31, couldn't contain her excitement that Streep was a fan of the show before joining the cast.

“Can you believe that Meryl Streep wanted to be on this show?” she asked. “I could die.”

Martin Short Says He Was Nervous to Work With Meryl Streep on Only Murders in the Building 312

Meryl Streep portrays the role of Loretta Durkin, an actress who finally achieves success after years of struggle in season 3 of the show. Her performance has been well-received by both viewers and critics. In the series, her character Loretta enters into a romantic relationship with Oliver Putman, played by Short, which is anticipated to continue in the upcoming season 4.

At the 2024 Golden Globes in January, Streep and Short were both nominated for awards. Streep was up for Best Supporting Actress while Short received his third consecutive nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy. They sat at the same table during the event.

Their chemistry and closeness at the award show sparked rumors that the two longtime friends might be dating in real life. However, it was revealed in October 2023 that Streep and her husband, Don Gummer, had separated over six years ago. Short, on the other hand, lost his wife, Nancy Dolman, to ovarian cancer in 2010.

A representative for Short has denied rumors of a romance between the actor and Streep. In a statement to The Messenger, the rep clarified that they are simply good friends and nothing more.

Editor's P/S:

The article provides an intriguing glimpse into the world of Hollywood legends, revealing the vulnerability and excitement that can coexist even among the most experienced actors. Martin Short's candid admission of nervousness when working with Meryl Streep showcases the immense respect and awe that permeates the industry. It is a testament to Streep's exceptional talent and presence that she can evoke such a reaction from a seasoned performer like Short.

The article also highlights the power of collaboration and the importance of taking risks. Streep's decision to reach out to Steve Martin and join "Only Murders in the Building" speaks to her willingness to embrace new challenges and share her craft with others. It is a reminder that even the most successful individuals can find inspiration and growth through the connections they forge with others.