In a revelation that has sent ripples through Hollywood and the fashion world, legendary actress Meryl Streep has confirmed a surprising familial link to none other than Anna Wintour, the formidable editor-in-chief of Vogue. The esteemed duo, whose professional paths have long been intertwined, particularly through Streep’s iconic portrayal of fashion magazine editor Miranda Priestly in “The Devil Wears Prada,” are, in fact, distant cousins.
The unexpected news came to light during a recent appearance by Streep on Jenna Bush Hager’s “Open Book” podcast. Hager, along with co-stars Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci, who were also present, shared the fascinating genealogical discovery with the “Mamma Mia” star. “It came out that… y’all are, like, fifth cousins or something,” Hager remarked, prompting Streep to elaborate on the connection.
Unearthing a Shared Ancestry
Streep explained that the roots of this surprising kinship trace back to Bucks County, Pennsylvania. “We are old English, the Wilkinsons, my mother’s side,” she revealed, adding a touch of amusement to the revelation. “It’s pretty funny.” The actress admitted that she was entirely unaware of this family tie until recently. She even quipped about the potential implications, joking that if she had known, she might have consciously “copied” Wintour’s distinctive mannerisms for her role as Miranda Priestly. In a playful retort, Streep added, “Maybe she’s copying me,” referring to her own status as a celebrated performer.
The news initially met with disbelief from Blunt and Tucci, who were present for the podcast recording. Streep, enjoying their reaction, playfully urged them to “Handle that.” This shared ancestry, while surprising, has been further detailed, with reports indicating that Streep and Wintour share fifth great-grandparents, Thomas Smith and Elizabeth Kinsey, making them sixth cousins.
The timing of this revelation is particularly poignant, coinciding with the promotion of the highly anticipated sequel to “The Devil Wears Prada.” The original 2006 film, which cemented Streep’s status as a fashion icon in the eyes of many, was famously inspired by Lauren Weisberger’s novel, a book penned by Wintour’s former junior assistant. The character of Miranda Priestly, with her sharp wit, impeccable style, and demanding demeanor, is widely understood to be a thinly veiled representation of the Vogue editor.
A Professional Partnership with a Personal Twist
The professional relationship between Streep and Wintour has been a subject of fascination for years. While Streep brought the character of Miranda Priestly to life with unparalleled skill, Wintour, as the real-life titan of the fashion industry, served as the muse. Their paths have continued to cross, most recently when they were spotted mingling at Milan Fashion Week in September, an event that further fueled speculation about their connection, especially in light of the upcoming “Devil Wears Prada 2.” This public appearance, as reported by Variety, underscored their continued presence in each other’s professional spheres.
The fact that these two powerful women, who have occupied such influential positions in their respective fields, are not only contemporaries but also distant relatives adds another layer of intrigue to their public personas. It’s a reminder that even in the seemingly disparate worlds of Hollywood and high fashion, unexpected connections can emerge from the tapestry of family history.
The Significance of the Connection
The revelation of Streep and Wintour’s familial link is more than just a celebrity gossip tidbit; it highlights the intricate and often surprising ways in which people are connected. In a world that often emphasizes individual achievement, discovering shared ancestry can foster a sense of broader community and shared heritage. For Streep, the discovery might offer a new perspective on her iconic role, perhaps even a deeper understanding of the woman who inspired it.
For fans of both women, this news adds a delightful personal dimension to their admiration. It’s fascinating to consider whether any shared family traits might have subtly influenced their respective talents and trajectories. The “old English” roots, as Streep described them, connect them to a long lineage, a shared history that predates their individual successes.
The journey of discovering this connection, from its initial uncovering to its public announcement, has been met with enthusiasm. It serves as a charming anecdote that humanizes two figures often perceived as larger-than-life. As the promotion for “The Devil Wears Prada 2” continues, this newfound familial bond is sure to be a topic of conversation, adding an extra layer of interest to the film’s release and the enduring legacy of both Meryl Streep and Anna Wintour.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How did Meryl Streep and Anna Wintour discover they are related? The connection was revealed on Jenna Bush Hager’s “Open Book” podcast when Hager shared the genealogical finding with Meryl Streep.
- What is the nature of their relationship? Meryl Streep and Anna Wintour are sixth cousins, sharing fifth great-grandparents, Thomas Smith and Elizabeth Kinsey.
- Were they aware of
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