Meryl Streep Reflects on 'Death Becomes Her' and Bonding with Goldie Hawn

Oscar-winner Meryl Streep reminisces about her experience filming the 1992 cult classic 'Death Becomes Her,' confessing to a friendly rivalry with co-star Goldie Hawn, whom she describes as 'adorable.' Despite technical challenges, Streep fondly recalls the laughter-filled set and the film's enduring appeal.

Meryl Streep, a three-time Oscar winner, recently revisited her experiences on the set of the 1992 cult classic 'Death Becomes Her.' In an interview, Streep disclosed her once 'beef' with co-star Goldie Hawn, whom she nonetheless described as 'adorable.' Streep candidly reflected on her career and the dynamics of working alongside Hawn and Bruce Willis, as reported by People magazine.

'Death Becomes Her' is a dark comedy that features Streep and Hawn as rivals Madeline Ashton and Helen Sharp, who consume a potion promising eternal youth. Bruce Willis plays the hapless Dr. Ernest Menville, caught between the two women. 'Goldie was always late, but she was so adorable,' Streep told People magazine, jokingly admitting their punctuality differences as a reason for their 'beef.'

Streep, while sharing a humorous anecdote about Hawn driving a red convertible to the set, praised the camaraderie and fun they shared, despite technical filming challenges. The movie, directed by Robert Zemeckis, was renowned for its groundbreaking visual effects, earning an Academy Award. However, Streep noted that filming those scenes was not enjoyable, describing the VFX process as 'excruciating.'

Streep expressed admiration for Willis, describing him as 'divine' and willing to embrace ridiculousness. Despite the technical challenges, the atmosphere on set was filled with laughter, with Hawn earning a reputation as the 'best laugher in America.' Written by Martin Donovan and David Koepp, the film grossed over USD 140 million worldwide, and Streep received a Golden Globe nomination. Hawn, appearing on the cover of People magazine, praised director Zemeckis as a 'genius' and reflected on the importance of collaboration in filmmaking.

More than three decades later, 'Death Becomes Her' remains a favorite, with a Broadway musical adaptation slated for 2024. The production inspired by the film has received 10 Tony nominations. The film's legacy continues to captivate audiences worldwide.