Meryl Streep & Anna Wintour: Distant Cousins Revealed

Meryl Streep and Anna Wintour, prominent figures in Hollywood and the fashion industry, have been discovered to be sixth cousins. Genealogy experts at Ancestry.com revealed that the two 76-year-old women share common fifth great-grandparents, Thomas Smith and Elizabeth Kinsey. These ancestors resided in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, near Philadelphia.

This ancestral link adds a fascinating dimension to the long-standing perception of Wintour as the real-life inspiration for Streep's portrayal of Miranda Priestly in 'The Devil Wears Prada.' The discovery highlights how two influential figures, born in the same year, have occupied parallel spheres for decades without knowing the full extent of their connection.

Further compounding the story, Lauren Weisberger, the author of the novel 'The Devil Wears Prada,' previously served as Wintour's assistant. Weisberger's upbringing in Allentown, just 20 miles from where their shared ancestors lived, adds another layer to the narrative.

In December 2024, Wintour commented on public speculation regarding similarities between herself and Streep's character, telling the BBC that it was for others to decide. A sequel to 'The Devil Wears Prada' is also mentioned, featuring Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci.