Meryl Streep, Martin Short find unexpected romance on ‘Only Murders in the Building’ set

Co-creator John Hoffman reveals the chemistry between Meryl Streep and Martin Short while filming the show.

In a twist that’s captured the hearts of fans worldwide, Only Murders in the Building co-creator John Hoffman has confirmed the budding romance between stars Meryl Streep and Martin Short. Known for their comedic talents, the two actors surprised both the audience and crew with their chemistry on and off-screen, transforming a fictional romance into a real-life bond.

Speaking with Decider, Hoffman expressed his excitement over their connection, calling it "one of the most unexpected turns." He described the magnetic energy Streep and Short brought to the set of Only Murders in the Building, particularly in season 3, where Streep joined the ensemble cast. “We were laughing our heads off,” Hoffman recalled, highlighting how their on-screen romance blossomed during the storyline, adding a touching dimension to the show’s intricate murder-mystery plot.

In season 3, Streep plays Loretta Durkin, a struggling New York actress who captures the heart of stage director Oliver Putnam, played by Short. From their first audition scene together to the pivotal moments on stage, fans watched the two characters develop a unique love story. Hoffman shared that one memorable moment occurred late at night on a ferry shoot, where Streep, with tears in her eyes, expressed her gratitude for the role, calling it "a chance to play scenes I thought I'd never get to do."

Hoffman and the show’s team are rooting for Streep and Short’s romance, which continues to charm fans beyond the screen. The season 4 finale will see their characters’ relationship reach new heights, with potential wedding plans between Loretta and Oliver, and an unmissable season-ending twist typical of the Only Murders series.

This real-life development follows Streep's recent separation from her husband, Don Gummer, and Short’s journey after his wife, Nancy Dolman, passed away in 2010. Their unexpected connection, reminiscent of classic Hollywood romances, has delighted fans and crew alike, including fellow star Steve Martin, who humorously acknowledged his new third-wheel status on Instagram.

With Only Murders in the Building season 4 streaming on Hulu and Disney+, fans can enjoy every twist and turn of this on-screen and off-screen romance. The season finale airs October 29, promising both suspense and a heartwarming conclusion to Loretta and Oliver’s love story.