In the glitzy world of Hollywood romance, Meryl Streep recently spilled the beans on her most cherished love scene. The iconic actress confessed that her heart skipped a beat in the presence of Hollywood legend Robert Redford during a steamy encounter on-screen. The setting? The picturesque backdrop of colonial South Africa in the 1985 film “Out of Africa.”
Emotions ran high as Streep, portraying a Danish baroness entangled in a passionate affair with a rugged big game hunter played by Redford, found herself swept away in a riverbank rendezvous. Nestled by the flowing waters, Redford’s character tenderly washed Streep’s hair while reciting poetry, creating an atmosphere drenched in intimacy and care that left audiences swooning.
But behind the camera, the scene wasn’t all smooth sailing. Streep, now 74, reminisced about the wild challenges they faced, from unexpected lion encounters to lurking hippos threatening their safety. Despite the dangers, the show went on, with Streep revealing that the day’s highlight was the magical moment when Roy Hellund, her trusted stylist, stepped in to demonstrate the perfect hair-washing technique, turning the awkward situation into a heartwarming connection.
As the scene unfolded, Streep found herself unexpectedly swept off her feet by Redford’s newfound confidence in hair care. By the fifth take, the chemistry between the two stars ignited, leaving Streep longing for more, captivated by Redford’s newfound skill and charm, despite the looming threat of hippos in the backdrop.
Directed by the legendary Sydney Pollack, “Out of Africa” wasn’t just a cinematic triumph but a personal journey for Streep. The film, adapted from Karen Blixen’s memoir, received critical acclaim and stood out with its 11 Academy Award nominations, solidifying Streep’s stature as a powerhouse performer.
But it wasn’t just Redford’s on-screen prowess that left an impression on Streep. In a candid interview, Streep gushed over Redford’s charm and welcoming nature, highlighting his receptive demeanor and exceptional listening skills as the foundation of their on-screen chemistry. Their bond transcended the silver screen, leading them to reunite in later years in the gripping war thriller “Lions for Lambs,” showcasing their seamless rapport once again.
The allure of Redford’s persona didn’t escape Streep even years later, as she was bestowed with a prestigious Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. The standing ovation she received served as a heartfelt acknowledgment of her contributions to cinema, leading Streep to reflect on her quiet, humble life juxtaposed against the dazzling reception she received on the grand stage.
For Streep, the path to stardom wasn’t paved with intentions of box office hits but rather a pursuit of pure joy and creative expression. From the unexpected success of films like “Mamma Mia!” to the riveting “The Devil Wears Prada,” Streep’s journey is a testament to the power of authenticity and passion in the realm of Hollywood.
In a world where love stories unfold both on screen and off, Meryl Streep’s radiant portrayal of enduring love and artistry serves as a timeless reminder of the magic that Hollywood legends like Robert Redford infuse into the fabric of cinema.
@nypost Meryl Streep reveals her favorite love scene was with this Hollywood legend