Meryl Streep ‘Had a Beef’ with Her ‘Adorable’ “Death Becomes Her” Costar Goldie Hawn

Meryl Streep has recently reflected on her time working with Goldie Hawn during the making of the iconic 1992 film, *Death Becomes Her*, revealing that although they had their differences, her affection for Hawn remains strong. The celebrated actress shared her thoughts in a video interview with *Vanity Fair*, showcasing her fond memories of the production.

During her candid remarks, the three-time Oscar winner disclosed that her main “beef” with Hawn stemmed from her being consistently late to the film set. While Streep, known for her punctuality, found this frustrating, she also described Hawn, who is now 80, as “adorable.” Streep recalled, “Goldie was always late to set, and I’m always on time — which is annoying,” she joked. Streep vividly remembered Hawn arriving in her red convertible, always apologetic for her tardiness, which elicited a sympathetic response from the crew.

Despite the playful tension over schedules, Streep emphasised her fondness for Hawn, affectionately referring to her as one of her close friends. “I had a beef with her, but I loved her. I love her,” Streep stated, highlighting the close bond that formed between them despite the challenges of film production.

Reflecting on the legacy of *Death Becomes Her*, Streep noted the humorous and memorable nature of the film, stating, “Over the years, we’ve had some laughs about that movie because people love it.” She described the film as akin to “a documentary on Beverly Hills,” showcasing its unique take on themes of beauty and youth.

Streep also praised her co-star, Bruce Willis, who played Dr. Ernest Menville in the film. She described Willis as a “gent,” commending his ability to embrace the absurdity of their roles and contribute to the film’s whimsical atmosphere. “He was so game and willing to be ridiculous,” she added, reflecting on the collaborative spirit that marked their experiences.

One aspect of the production that Streep found particularly arduous was the extensive use of visual effects, which included scenes that required both her and Hawn to perform in green spandex suits. Streep commented on the exasperating nature of this work, describing it as “excruciating.” Nevertheless, she noted that the two actresses shared plenty of laughter during filming, crediting Hawn as “the best laugher in America.”

*Death Becomes Her*, directed by Robert Zemeckis, enjoyed significant success, grossing over $140 million at the box office. The film’s innovative visual effects earned it an Academy Award, while Streep’s performance garnered a Golden Globe nomination. The film’s enduring popularity has led to its adaptation into a hit Broadway musical, which premiered in 2024 and received critical acclaim.

Goldie Hawn, now featured on the cover of *People* magazine, also shared her experience with *Death Becomes Her*. Commenting on the film’s creative process, Hawn praised director Zemeckis, dubbing him a “genius.” She revealed that her partner Kurt Russell played a significant role in the story’s development, suggesting that Hawn’s character should gain weight as part of her revenge plot, demonstrating the collaborative nature of filmmaking.

Hawn’s insights underscore the importance of teamwork in the film industry, stating, “No movie is starring. Everybody’s important because otherwise there is no movie.” This sentiment resonates strongly within the film community, where collaboration among cast and crew is vital for bringing a vision to life.

The legacy of *Death Becomes Her* continues to thrive, not only through its original film format but also via the successful Broadway musical adaptation, which was nominated for ten Tony Awards and secured a win for best costume design. As Streep and Hawn reflect on their history, it is clear that their shared experiences on set have left an indelible mark on both their careers and the film itself, ensuring its place in cinematic history.