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A true icon of the seventh art, the multi-talented actress Meryl Streep will be awarded an Honorary Palme d’Or at the 77th edition of the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. This recognition will crown an exceptional career spanning nearly half a century.

Born Mary Louise Streep on June 22, 1949, in New Jersey, Meryl Streep is universally regarded as one of the greatest actresses of her generation. With an impressive filmography of over 70 feature films, she has, over the years, won the hearts of audiences and critics alike, establishing herself as an indispensable figure in world cinema.

After training at the renowned Yale School of Drama, Meryl Streep made her first steps on Broadway in the 1970s. She quickly turned to the silver screen and landed her breakthrough role in Michael Cimino’s The Deer Hunter (1978), earning her first Oscar nomination. The following year, she won her first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in Robert Benton’s Kramer vs. Kramer.

This was followed by a series of memorable roles in films that have become classics. Meryl Streep brilliantly portrayed a Holocaust survivor in Alan J. Pakula’s Sophie’s Choice (1982), a performance that earned her a second Oscar, this time in the coveted Best Actress category. She also shone in Sydney Pollack’s Out of Africa (1985), Fred Schepisi’s A Cry in the Dark (1988) and Clint Eastwood’s The Bridges of Madison County (1995).

A versatile actress par excellence, Meryl Streep excels in all genres, effortlessly transitioning from drama to comedy. Her comedic talent shines in films like Robert Zemeckis’s Death Becomes Her (1992) and David Frankel’s The Devil Wears Prada (2006). Her performance in the latter, in which she portrays a tyrannical editor-in-chief, has become iconic.

Throughout her prolific career, Meryl Streep has accumulated awards and nominations. She holds the record for the most Oscar nominations (21 in total) and won the prestigious statuette three times. Her accolades also include eight Golden Globes, two Emmy Awards, two SAG Awards and a Tony Award, among many other honors.

Despite international fame, Meryl Streep has remained a discreet and humble actress, far from the glitz and glamour of the star system. Very attached to her family life, she has also been involved in numerous causes, such as defending women’s rights and environmental protection.

In May 2024, the Cannes Film Festival will pay tribute to this living legend of the seventh art by awarding her an Honorary Palme d’Or at the opening ceremony of its 77th edition. This distinction will salute an extraordinary career marked by unforgettable performances and an invaluable contribution to cinematic art.

Touched and honored by this award, Meryl Streep said, “Receiving this prestigious award from the international community of artists has always represented the highest honor in the art of cinema. Standing in the shadow of those who have been honored before me is both humbling and exhilarating.”

This Honorary Palme d’Or is a fitting recognition for an actress who has profoundly influenced the history of cinema. With her immense talent, versatility and commitment, Meryl Streep has touched generations of viewers and inspired countless artists. Her exceptional journey will forever be etched in the annals of the seventh art, making her a true icon admired and respected worldwide.