In an industry where dating rumors inundate the headlines more than project or casting announcements, it was bound to bring Meryl Streep and Martin Short’s name in the mix. They perfectly fit the criteria for being eligible for the dating speculations club - have been friends for a long time, have been spotted at several events together, and have also shared a romantic relationship on-screen once. What else does one need to conjure up a romantic relationship between two Hollywood celebrities?  

But what about the truth? Are the Oscar winner and comedian really dating? Let us find out.

In 2024, shortly after Meryl Streep joined Only Murders in the Building as Martin Short's on-screen love interest, the internet started buzzing with dating rumors about the two. Given that she had divorced her husband, Don Gummer, and that Short had not dated anyone since his wife, Nancy Dolman, died of ovarian cancer in 2010, the timing made complete sense.

The only problem with this theory is that neither of them has confirmed anything until now, and has maintained that both of them are just very good friends. Now, if they have already clarified things time and again, then what seems to be constantly fueling the rumors? The answer is the inside sources claiming an undeniable chemistry between the stars.

There have been several reports published since 2024 about the dating rumors, most of them citing various sources that allege different things about their relationship. In a December 2024 article by OK Magazine, a source claimed that Short and Streep could not keep their romance a secret on the sets of Only Murders in the Building despite their best efforts. 

“Their romance was the worst-kept secret on set. The timing is just not right for them to shout their love from the rooftops,” the insider said about the couple on the set. 

Met Gala 2026 Snub? Meryl Streep Reportedly Skips Event Likely Over Jeff Bezos Connection

So, does this prove anything about the truth behind Meryl Streep and Martin Short’s reported relationship?

While the rumors and anonymous testimonials by themselves do not prove anything, the alleged couple also did not leave anything to imagination. They constantly went out in public together - once holding hands with each other at the Only Murders in the Building season 4 premiere party, once on Valentine’s Day in 2025, and attending the SNL50 concert together. 

These public outings do not confirm anything, but they do not deny the rumors either. Whether Meryl Streep (who is currently enjoying the success of The Devil Wears Prada 2) and Martin Short are dating or not remains to be a mystery; their friendly bond with one another is evident in their public outings and on-screen ventures. 

Martin Short Documentary on Netflix: Release Date, Trailer and More on Hollywood’s Favorite Comic Gold Revival

Do you think Meryl Streep and Martin Short are actually dating and keeping their relationship a secret? Share your thoughts.