Meryl Streep Confirms Split From Don Gummer After 45 Years — Still Radiates Elegance on the Red Carpet

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Meryl Streep and Don Gummer, who had been married for 45 years, disclosed in October 2023 that they had been apart “for more than six years.”

In an exclusive statement first seen on Page Six, a representative for Streep said, “Don Gummer and Meryl Streep have been separated for more than 6 years, and while they will always care for each other, they have chosen lives apart.”

The two were introduced by Meryl’s brother in 1978. They tied the knot six months later, on September 30, 1978, and share four children and five grandchildren.

Her eldest child is Henry Wolfe Gummer, and she has three daughters: Mary Willa Gummer, often referred to as Mamie Gummer, Grace Jane Gummer, and Louisa Jacobson Gummer.

Standing at 5ft 4¾ (164.5 cm), Meryl Streep appeared nearly as tall as her husband Don Gummer on the 2014 Oscars red carpet—likely thanks to a pair of elegant high heels that added a subtle lift to her stately presence.

Meryl Streep exudes timeless elegance in an off-the-shoulder Lanvin gown paired with metallic accessories, while Don Gummer keeps it classic in a black suit and tie at the 2014 OscarsMeryl Streep exudes timeless elegance in an off-the-shoulder Lanvin gown paired with metallic accessories, while Don Gummer keeps it classic in a black suit and tie at the 2014 Oscars (Credit: INFphoto)

In a 2002 Vogue interview, Meryl said the secret to their long marriage was “Goodwill and willingness to bend—and to shut up every once in a while.”

“There’s no road map on how to raise a family: It’s always an enormous negotiation. But I have a holistic need to work and to have huge ties of love in my life. I can’t imagine eschewing one for the other.”

Don Gummer and Meryl Streep attend the New York Philharmonic's opening night gala of Sweeney Todd on March 5, 2014, with Streep stylishly wrapped in a navy coat adorned with bold white floral embroideryDon Gummer and Meryl Streep attend the New York Philharmonic’s opening night gala of Sweeney Todd on March 5, 2014, with Streep stylishly wrapped in a navy coat adorned with bold white floral embroidery (Credit: Walter McBride / INFphoto)

The three-time Oscar-winning actress and her sculptor husband were last seen in public at the 2018 Academy Awards, where Streep was up for Best Actress for her portrayal of Katherine Graham in The Post.

Meryl Streep Honored with Princess of Asturias Arts Award

Streep wore her wedding band at the Princess of Asturias Awards ceremony in Spain, where she received the prestigious Arts award.

It was one of eight awards given to individuals, groups, or organizations worldwide for notable achievements in Communication and Humanities, Social Sciences, Literature, Sports, Technical and scientific research, International Cooperation, and Concord.

Crown Princess Leonor, for whom the award foundation is named, officially gave each recipient their prizes, which included 50,000 euros and a sculpture by Spanish Catalan artist Joan Miró.

Meryl Streep is honored with the prestigious Princess of Asturias Arts award at this year's Princess of Asturias Awards ceremony in Spain on October 20, 2023Meryl Streep is honored with the prestigious Princess of Asturias Arts award at this year’s Princess of Asturias Awards ceremony in Spain on October 20, 2023 (Credit: Abaca Press / INSTARimages)

Streep opted for quiet luxury, wearing a black plissé dress with a plunging neckline, long sleeves, and an ankle-length hem. To help define her waist, the iconic actress wore a black belt with a crystal-encrusted buckle.

Meryl Streep embraces quiet luxury in a black pleated midi dress cinched with a crystal-buckled belt, pairing it elegantly with sheer tights and pointed ankle-strap heels at the Princess of Asturias AwardsMeryl Streep embraces quiet luxury in a black pleated midi dress cinched with a crystal-buckled belt, pairing it elegantly with sheer tights and pointed ankle-strap heels at the Princess of Asturias Awards (Credit: Abaca Press / INSTARimages)

She paired the look with black tights and slipped into pointy black pumps with dainty ankle straps. Keeping things understated, she accessorized with pearl drop earrings, a gold bracelet, and a black clutch.

Meryl Streep’s Iconic Fashion Moments

Explore some of Meryl Streep’s most memorable red carpet appearances and fashion choices:

Meryl Streep Flaunts Legs in Kuki Sandals and Timeless Tuxedo Jacket

  • Event: 2015 Academy Awards
  • Outfit: Meryl Streep showcased her legs in a custom Lanvin ensemble featuring a timeless tuxedo jacket, white blouse, and column skirt.
  • Footwear: She completed the look with black “Kuki” sandals from Jimmy Choo.
  • Read more: Meryl Streep’s 2015 Oscars look in Lanvin and Jimmy Choo

Mamie Gummer Joins Mother Meryl Streep at Ricki and the Flash Premiere

Meryl Streep radiates timeless elegance in a rich red Dior Couture gown with a coordinating fabric belt and Fred Leighton jewels as she celebrates her Best Actress nomination for The Post at the 2018 OscarsMeryl Streep radiates timeless elegance in a rich red Dior Couture gown with a coordinating fabric belt and Fred Leighton jewels as she celebrates her Best Actress nomination for The Post at the 2018 Oscars (Credit: Michael Baker / A.M.P.A.S.)

Anne Hathaway’s Cerulean Versace Gown Steals the Show at SAG Awards 2024

  • Event: 30th Annual SAG Awards
  • Outfit: Anne Hathaway paid homage to “The Devil Wears Prada” in a cerulean blue Versace gown, referencing the iconic scene with Meryl Streep’s character.
  • Footwear: She completed the look with matching accessories and heels.
  • Discover more: Anne Hathaway’s nod to Meryl Streep at the SAG Awards

Emily Blunt Shines in Plunging Red Louis Vuitton Dress at SAG Awards

  • Event: 30th Annual SAG Awards
  • Outfit: Emily Blunt dazzled in a custom plunging red Louis Vuitton gown while presenting alongside Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway.
  • Footwear: She paired the gown with elegant heels to complete the ensemble.
  • See her look: Emily Blunt’s stunning red gown at the SAG Awards

These moments highlight Meryl Streep’s enduring influence on fashion, both through her own style choices and her impact on fellow celebrities.