MARTIN SHORT AND MERYL STREEP'S SECRET RELATIONSHIP TIMELINE AMID FAMILY HEARTACHE. (PHOTO).

 Martin Short and Meryl Streep's secret relationship timeline amid family heartache

For more than a year, Martin Short and Meryl Streep sparked speculation about a possible romance after co‑starring in Only Murders in the Building. Fans were captivated by their on‑screen chemistry, and despite repeated denials, rumors persisted. 

The two had known each other for decades in the industry and were occasionally seen together at public events, including backstage at It’s Only a Play in 2015 and sitting side by side at Diane Keaton’s AFI tribute in 2017. 

Their closeness during the production of Only Murders only fueled speculation further, though representatives initially insisted they were simply good friends.

By early 2024, Short clarified that Streep had personally asked to join the series and that their characters’ love story was coincidental. 

Still, whispers of a deeper connection continued until March 2025, when reports confirmed they had been dating quietly for over a year. The revelation surprised many, as neither had been actively seeking a relationship. 

Soon after, the pair were photographed sharing a kiss while filming in New York City, though it remained unclear whether the moment was in character or genuine.

Their personal histories added further intrigue. Streep had been married to sculptor Don Gummer since 1978, but revealed in 2024 that they had been separated for six years, sharing four adult children together. 

Short, meanwhile, was widowed in 2010 after the death of his wife Nancy Dolman, with whom he had three children. 

Tragically, in February 2026, Short’s eldest daughter Katherine died by suicide at the age of 42, casting a somber shadow over the couple’s otherwise joyful new chapter.