Cher Opens Up About Meryl Streep’s ‘Golden Rules’ for Overcoming Loneliness in Hollywood

In the world of glitz and glamour, the loneliness of movie stardom can often be overwhelming—even for icons. Cher recently shared a heartfelt revelation about how Meryl Streep, her co-star and longtime friend, helped her navigate one of the toughest periods of her career with invaluable wisdom and support.

A Friendship Born on the Set of Silkwood

The two legendary actresses first connected while filming the 1983 drama Silkwood. At the time, Cher was primarily known as a singer making her way into serious acting, a transition that left her feeling vulnerable and uncertain. Cher has openly admitted she was on the verge of giving up, overwhelmed by feelings of isolation and self-doubt.

Meryl Streep, already a respected figure in the industry, became more than a co-star—she became Cher’s anchor. Their friendship blossomed into a lifeline that helped Cher survive the pressures and loneliness of Hollywood.

The Spirit of Five “Golden Rules”

While Cher hasn’t shared a formal list, she credits Streep with imparting five key lessons—“golden rules” in spirit—that helped her find strength and confidence:

1. Modeling Professionalism
   Streep showed Cher how to approach acting with seriousness and dedication without succumbing to the diva stereotypes that sometimes haunt Hollywood. This professional example helped Cher earn respect on set and grow in her craft.
2. Maintaining Boundaries
   Meryl demonstrated the importance of protecting one’s personal life from the relentless spotlight of fame. She balanced stardom with a grounded, private existence—an approach Cher learned to adopt, allowing her to keep her sanity amid Hollywood’s chaos.
3. Genuine Friendship
   Perhaps the most vital gift was Streep’s warmth and authenticity. In an industry often marked by competition, Streep’s sincere friendship helped Cher break through her isolation and feel supported in a way few others could offer.
4. Embracing Authenticity
   Streep’s unwavering commitment to her own unique talents encouraged Cher to trust herself rather than conform to Hollywood’s narrow expectations. This newfound confidence paved the way for Cher’s acclaimed performances, including her Oscar-nominated role in Silkwood and later her win for Moonstruck.
5. Survival Through Kindness and Balance
   Ultimately, Streep’s example taught Cher that success in Hollywood isn’t just about talent—it’s about kindness, professionalism, and maintaining a life outside the spotlight to combat the loneliness that often accompanies fame.

A Lasting Bond and Timeless Wisdom

Cher’s story about Meryl Streep is a reminder that behind the fame and accolades, human connection and grounded values are what sustain artists through challenging times. Their friendship, spanning decades, stands as a testament to how support and wisdom from a true friend can change the course of a life and career.

As Cher reflects on those formative days, it’s clear that the lessons she learned from Streep helped her transform from a hesitant newcomer into a confident, beloved icon—both on screen and beyond.