3 Signs Meryl Streep And Don Gummer's Marriage Wasn't Going To Last
Jessica Wilkins Before Meryl Streep and Don Gummer were married, Streep was one-half of another Hollywood power couple. According to Michael Schulman, author of "Her Again: Becoming Meryl Streep," the actress' first true love was John Cazale — the tall, dark-eyed actor made famous for his roles in "The Deer Hunter" and the first two "Godfather" films. The two budding creatives met in 1976 while acting in a performance of William Shakespeare's play "Measure for Measure." It wouldn't be long before they moved in together.
In 1977, their love would be put to the test when Cazale was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. Sadly, Cazale would die from the disease a year later. Streep, who remained at his side until his death, was devastated. "She took care of him like there was nobody else on Earth," "The Deer Hunter" director Joe Papp said (via New York Post). "She never betrayed him in his presence or out of his presence. Never betrayed any notion that he would not survive."
Streep was still mourning her boyfriend's death when she met Donald Gummer. The charming artist quickly swept her off her feet. In 1978, just six months after Cazale had passed away, Streep and Gummer were married. The rushed wedding was reportedly held at her parents' home and drew concern from her mother, who wondered, "What is she thinking about?" (via People).