ling in that she brings depth to each role she tackles. Even in her most forgettable films, she usually renders a powerful impression among critics and audiences alike. It’s no wonder Streep is frequently touted as the
world’s greatest living actress
, with the chops and professionalism to back up the accolade.
“I was an ugly little kid with a big mouth, an obnoxious show-off,” Streep has said of her younger self. That tendency to seek attention would pay off in a big way. Singing before rapturous audiences as early as age 12, she soon took to the stage for various high school plays. After graduating from Vassar College, Streep enrolled in the Yale School of Drama, and continued to pursue her passion for stage acting. From there it was off to New York’s theater scene, where she quickly established herself as a formidable talent.
In 1977, Streep made her major motion picture debut in the World War II drama “Julia.” Just two years later, she…