Meryl Streep recalls ‘beef’ with Goldie Hawn during filming of ’90s horror comedy ‘Death Becomes Her’
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Actress Meryl Streep recently looked back on her experience filming the 1990s horror-comedy ‘Death Becomes Her' alongside actress and comedian Goldie Hawn, recalling a brief “beef” that developed between them during production.
In a Vanity Fair interview published on Thursday, April 30, Streep reflected on their on-set dynamic and how their differing work habits shaped early interactions. The conversation also touched on her film 'Devil Wears Prada 2’ as well as her reflections on themes of ambition, balance, and the evolving nature of work and media.
Goldie Hawn and Meryl Streep attended Good Housekeeping’s Shine On Awards at Radio City Music Hall in New York City (Kevin Mazur/WireImage for Good Housekeeping)Meryl Streep recalls on-set tension and humor with Goldie Hawn during ‘Death Becomes Her’
Streep said friction arose largely from punctuality differences during filming. She described herself as strictly on time, while noting Hawn’s more relaxed approach to arrival on set.
“Goldie, she was always late to set. And I’m always on time, you know, and annoying,” Streep said.
She recalled Hawn arriving in her red convertible and apologizing in a lighthearted way that often softened any tension on set. “So I had a beef with her,” Streep said, clarifying that it was never serious.
Despite the contrast in styles, Streep emphasized that the experience was filled with humor and warmth. She praised Hawn’s personality and distinctive laughter, saying, “She’s the best laughter in America, really. She laughs like, ‘Hahaha!’ And then they have to stop shooting.”
Streep described the filming experience as “silly and fabulous,” adding, “We just laughed. We just had a lot of fun.” She also later clarified that there was no real conflict and that the two remained friends.
Reflecting on the film’s legacy, she joked, “People love it. I thought it was like a documentary on Beverly Hills.” Streep also praised co-star Bruce Willis, calling him “divine” and highlighting his comedic willingness. “We had so much fun with him. He was such a gent, and so game, and willing to be ridiculous. I just thought he was wonderful.”
‘Devil Wears Prada 2’ explores journalism ambition and modern media challenges
Speaking about ‘Devil Wears Prada 2’, Streep said she agreed to the sequel only if it reflected current industry realities. The film addresses newsroom downsizing, declining print influence, and the rise of digital media.
Her character Miranda Priestly, inspired by former Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, remains central to the story. Wintour held the role for 37 years from 1988 to 2025 and is widely credited with reshaping fashion media by blending celebrity culture with high fashion.
Co-star Stanley Tucci said the sequel explores “the loss of control that journalists have because of social media and AI.” Actress Anne Hathaway added that the film encourages audiences to “participate in the world you want to live,” emphasizing journalism’s relevance.
Streep also described the film as “a lot of fun and fashion,” while Tucci called it “a nice bit of escapism.” Emily Blunt said she hoped audiences would feel a “joy bomb” while revisiting the original’s spirit.
The sequel also revisits themes of ambition and gender expectations in careers. Streep noted that ambition is still often seen as “an unattractive quality in women,” a point echoed throughout the film’s narrative.
