Meryl Streep and Martin Short Spark Dating Rumors After Hand-Holding at Red Carpet Event

Meryl Streep and Martin Short have sparked fresh dating rumors after their affectionate appearance at the Only Murders in the Building season four premiere. The legendary duo, aged 75 and 74 respectively, were seen holding hands throughout the event, reigniting fan speculation about the nature of their relationship.

The premiere, held in Los Angeles, saw Meryl walking the red carpet alongside her co-stars Steve Martin, Selena Gomez, and of course, Martin Short. The Hulu hit series, known for its blend of comedy and murder mystery, will soon release its highly anticipated new episodes. Meryl, who made a notable appearance as Loretta Durkin in season three, will reprise her role in the upcoming season. Interestingly, her character also happens to be the love interest of Martin Short’s character, Oliver Putnam, adding an extra layer of intrigue to their off-screen interactions.

meryl streep & martin short at the omitb s4 premiere

that's it. that's the tweet pic.twitter.com/XcNnEMPly9

— yas ✨ omitb era (@andwmtays) August 23, 2024

This isn’t the first time that rumors about Meryl and Martin have swirled. Last year, fans noticed the duo’s undeniable chemistry offscreen when they appeared particularly close at the Golden Globe Awards. The speculation intensified after it was revealed that Meryl had quietly separated from her husband of 45 years, Don Gummer, six years prior. However, both stars were quick to shut down any romantic rumors. Martin addressed the gossip during an appearance on the Club Random with Bill Maher

podcast, clarifying that they were “just very close friends.” Representatives for both actors echoed this sentiment, stating they were “just very good friends, nothing more.”

Despite their denials, fans remain hopeful. A video captured by Deadline shows the pair walking hand in hand at the after-party following the premiere, with Steve Martin trailing behind them. Earlier that evening, red carpet photos captured the two sweetly holding each other’s hands while posing together, further fueling speculation among fans.

meryl streep and martin short being a couple might be my favorite thing to happen ever

— ! kal/sawyer ! (@funkiiiy) August 23, 2024

Social media quickly buzzed with reactions. One user on X (formerly Twitter), @hollylottie88, commented, “I simply love living in a world where 75-year-old Meryl Streep is having a soft relationship launch with her 74-year-old boyfriend, Martin Short.” Another fan, @andwmtays, added, “How many times have you watched this video of Meryl Streep and Martin Short holding hands? Yes.” The excitement continued with @LiamB3_ tweeting, “If Martin Short and Meryl Streep are dating, it’s the greatest couple of all time and nothing else comes close.”

So, are Meryl Streep and Martin Short really dating? Unfortunately for hopeful fans, the answer remains a resounding no. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Martin confirmed that he and Meryl are “just friends.” Meanwhile, Meryl’s representatives reiterated to Page Six that the two are not romantically involved.

If the Martin Short and Meryl Streep thing turns out not to be true, can you just do me a favor and not tell me

— Allison Kilkenny (@allisonkilkenny) August 23, 2024

Their close friendship dates back several years, with photos of them attending Broadway shows together as far back as 2015. Most recently, the pair were spotted together at a performance of Merrily We Roll Along. Their on-screen chemistry in Only Murders in the Building has also caught the attention of fans and critics alike. Series creator John Hoffman praised their dynamic in an interview with TheWrap, describing it as a “beautiful romance” that works because of the depth and authenticity they bring to their characters.

In the end, while the idea of Meryl Streep and Martin Short as a couple may be the ultimate Hollywood fantasy, the truth is much simpler: they are two long-time friends who share a deep respect and admiration for one another, both on and off the screen.

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