Geraldine James Opens Up About Competing With Meryl Streep

In the world of acting, competition is simply part of the job. With every role, countless talented performers throw their hats in the ring, but only one can walk away with the part. The bigger the project, the more likely it is that a household name will land the role. That’s just how the business works, and it’s been that way for decades. Every now and then, a lesser-known face gets a shot, but when it comes down to an unknown versus someone like Meryl Streep, the odds are clear. Streep, with her 21 Oscar nominations and three wins, is a force to be reckoned with.

For many actors, going up against Streep can feel like running a race against Usain Bolt. Geraldine James, a respected British actress, knows this feeling all too well. She’s found herself in direct competition with Streep for roles more than once, and she admits it’s tough not to feel a twinge of envy. Still, James has nothing but respect for Streep’s incredible talent and work ethic, which have earned her a legendary status in the industry.

Facing the Hollywood Powerhouse

James has spoken openly about her experiences auditioning for the same parts as Streep, especially when the role called for an English accent. That, she felt, was her one advantage. Reflecting on her own career, James recalled the pressure she felt playing Marilla Cuthbert, a beloved Canadian character, as a British actress. She understood the frustration of local talent being passed over for a foreign star, because she’d felt the same way when Streep landed roles she’d hoped for.

“I was terrified to play that iconic Canadian character, Marilla Cuthbert. To be British and portraying her in Canada, I could feel daggers coming through the air at me from every Canadian actress of a certain age,” James revealed. “And I don’t blame them. I would have been the same. I certainly was when Meryl Streep used to get all the parts that I was up for – The French Lieutenant’s Woman, Out of Africa. Adding, “I used to think, ‘Sit down, Meryl, and let someone else have a go!’ Although I’d cast Meryl Streep over me any day. I mean, she’s phenomenal.”

Streep’s Unmatched Reign

Streep’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary. From her early days on stage to her breakout in 1977 ’s Julia, she’s shown a willingness to take on any role, no matter the challenge. Her performances in films like Kramer vs. Kramer, Mamma Mia!, Sophie’s Choice, and Silkwood have cemented her reputation as one of the most versatile and consistent actors in Hollywood. During the 1980s, she seemed unstoppable, landing one acclaimed role after another.

For James, watching Streep’s rise was both inspiring and, at times, a little disheartening. While Streep was dominating the big screen, James found her own success mostly on television, though she’s also appeared in notable films like The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and 45 Years. Despite the rivalry, James acknowledges that Streep’s achievements are well-deserved, the result of years of dedication and hard work.

Finding Her Own Path

Though she may not have reached the same level of fame, James has carved out a respected career in her own right. She’s earned acclaim for her performances on both the small and big screens, proving that there’s more than one way to make a mark in the entertainment industry. And who knows—maybe one day, she and Streep will finally share the screen, bringing their unique talents together at last.