Meryl Streep's Table Read Troubles Unveiled: The Surprising Reason Behind the Actress' Struggle

Summary

Only Murders in the Building explores why Meryl Streep's character struggled at the table read, highlighting her unique process to find her voice as a performer.

The content establishes a conflict between Loretta and Ben during the table read. This conflict leads to a romantic relationship between Loretta and Oliver, who supports her talent despite Ben's push to dismiss her.

As a result of the conflict, Loretta becomes a prominent suspect in Ben's poisoning and eventual death. However, the show reveals more unexpected twists, implying that Loretta may not be the obvious culprit.

In a TV Line interview, John Hoffman, the co-creator of Only Murders in the Building, delved into the struggles of Meryl Streep's character at the table read in the season 3 premiere. Hoffman, along with Steve Martin, co-created the popular murder mystery series on Hulu, which premiered its third season on August 8. The first episode takes viewers back to Loretta Durkin's audition for Oliver Putnam's play, Death Rattle, where she impresses him. However, during the script read-through four months later, Loretta faces difficulties, attempting various accents before losing her place in the script.

Hoffman, coming from a theater background himself, shed light on the reasons behind Streep's character's poor performance at the table read. He explains that Loretta, like Streep, is an exceptionally talented actress who simply needs to discover her unique voice as a performer. In the process, she sometimes employs unconventional methods. Below, read Hoffman's exact words on the matter.

Did Loretta Durkin Kill Ben Glenroy In Only Murders in the Building Season 3?

Loretta is an incredibly talented actress who requires the perfect role to unleash her full potential. Coming from a theater background, I understand and respect the importance of the creative process. During a table read, I have witnessed numerous exceptional actors causing a sense of unease due to their unconventional methods. They leave everyone wondering, "What are they doing?" In Loretta's case, finding her character's voice is paramount. Just as some individuals need a costume to get into character, Loretta needs to discover her character's voice. What matters most to me is that Oliver takes it upon himself to defend her. He becomes her advocate, refusing to abandon her, and this ultimately leads to a blossoming romance between them.

In addition to showcasing her journey in finding her voice, the table read for Death Rattle unveils the clash between Loretta and the renowned superhero actor Ben Glenroy (Paul Rudd), who portrays the protagonist in the play. Following Loretta's underwhelming performance during the table read, Ben implores Oliver to dismiss her, reminiscent of Charles (Steve Martin) doing the same to Ben during their time on Brazzos years ago. However, Oliver remains convinced of Loretta's talent and becomes her advocate, leading to a blossoming romance between the two, as noted by Hoffman.

Loretta becomes a prime suspect in the poisoning of the lead star on the opening night of the play due to her conflict with Ben. Adding to the suspicion, Ben indirectly insults Loretta once again before she departs from the party, coinciding with his fatal fall in the Arconia's elevator shaft. Furthermore, at the time of his death, Ben possesses a handkerchief that implicates someone from the play. However, Loretta's involvement may appear too obvious, and Only Murders in the Building has consistently favored surprising revelations.