Before Meryl Streep officially announced her quiet separation from husband Don Gummer, she was often seen still wearing her wedding ring. According to an insider speaking exclusively to Closer, this wasn’t necessarily a sign of marital bliss. "She wears the ring out of habit," the source reveals, "but she does take it off sometimes." The Oscar-winning actress and Gummer, a sculptor, separated six years ago but only made the news public on October 20.
A Life of Habits and Rituals
Meryl Streep, known for her incredible career and private personal life, is no stranger to maintaining certain traditions. Even after separating from Don Gummer, she continued wearing her wedding ring. “It’s just something she’s done for so long,” explains the insider. “But she does take it off occasionally, especially around the kids.” This revelation gives a glimpse into how the couple has chosen to navigate their split in a way that feels respectful and considerate to their family.
“She still loves Don, and the kids like it,” the source continues. “It’s kind of funny, she says the kids always check out her ring finger every time they see her. They’re curious, you know?” It’s clear that the family dynamic remains strong, even as they adapt to their new reality.
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Why the Delay in Going Public?
When Meryl, now 74, attended the Princesa de Asturias Awards in Asturias, Spain, with her wedding ring firmly in place, it sparked curiosity. Why did the couple wait so long to share their news? “They are so low-key as a couple, even with Meryl’s fame, that they really didn’t think it was a big deal to keep it to themselves,” the insider explains. “They came out about it now because the time just felt right.”
For six years, the separation remained private, a decision that speaks volumes about their desire to protect their relationship and family life from public scrutiny. “They’re not ones to draw attention to themselves,” the source adds. “It was more about timing and comfort than anything else.”
A Family That Stands Together
Meryl and Don, who tied the knot back in 1978, have four children together: Henry Wolfe, Mamie Gummer, Grace Gummer, and Louisa Jacobson. Despite their separation, the couple has no plans to divorce, according to the insider. “The kids don’t think they should [divorce], and of course, Meryl isn’t about to confide that with just anyone,” the source reveals.
Living arrangements have adjusted over the years to accommodate their new relationship dynamic. “They have separate bedrooms at their homes on both coasts,” the insider explains. “Meryl pretty much has her home in Pasadena to herself now.” Yet, despite the physical distance, their emotional connection remains intact.
A Friendship Built on History
Though the couple is no longer romantically involved, they share a deep bond rooted in decades of shared experiences. “They’re on friendly terms,” the source confirms. “They have a lot of history together. They have children and grandkids; they wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Meryl, known for her role in films like Julie & Julia, continues to prioritize family above all else. “She is a safe haven for them,” the insider notes. “She trusts them to make their own choices and be smart, but for Meryl, family has always come first.”
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When it comes to balancing her career and family, Meryl has always been upfront about the challenges. “Motherhood, marriage — it’s a balancing act,” she told Good Housekeeping in July 2008. “Especially when you have a job that you consider rewarding. It’s a challenge, but the best kind of challenge.”
For Meryl and Don, family remains the cornerstone of their lives. They value spending quality time together and creating lasting memories with their children and grandchildren. “She is a safe haven for them — she trusts them to make their own choices and be smart,” the insider shared. “But for Meryl, family has always come first.”
