Me and Meryl Streep

In the 1980s, something unexpected changed the direction of my life — and it wasn’t a movie role.

It was Meryl Streep.

At the height of her fame, when she could have focused solely on red carpets and award stages, she chose instead to step onto a different kind of platform. She went on a national tour speaking out about the harmful effects of the pesticide Alar on apples — raising awareness about the risks it posed, especially to children. She didn’t have to do that. She was already a superstar. An icon. A once-in-a-generation actor.

However, she did it anyway.

Watching someone of her stature use her voice — not for applause, not for a role, but for people — moved me in a way I can still feel today. She lent her name, her face, and her spotlight to something bigger than herself. And that told me everything I needed to know about the kind of career I wanted.

It wasn’t just about being on television. It was about purpose. It was about impact. It was about understanding that visibility is a responsibility.

I have never met Meryl Streep. She doesn’t know the role she played in my life. She is one of if not the single greatest motivating force that pushed me toward a career in television — and toward using whatever platform I have to try to make a difference.

In my latest book I share a deeply personal message about how her courage and conviction shaped my path. If you’ve ever been inspired by someone from afar — someone who unknowingly changed your trajectory — I hope you’ll take a moment to read it. If you feel like sharing please submit it to me and maybe I'll post it on the site. 

Visit my website, read the story, and watch the accompanying video on my social media. This one comes straight from the heart.

Because sometimes the people who impact us most… never even know our names.

Me and Meryl Streep