How the September 11 Attacks Inspired Meryl Streep to Make “Mamma Mia!” »

Meryl Streep has appeared in many classic films, but many fans know her best from the famous musical Mama Mia!, based on ABBA songs. In an interview, Streep said she became fascinated with the musical after the events of September 11. Streep’s agent thought his client wouldn’t be interested in the long-awaited film version of the musical, but he was horribly wrong. She had a very easy time getting the lead role in the film.

Meryl Streep said “Mamma Mia!” brought him joy after 9/11

During an interview with Vogue in 2023, Streep discussed her history with the musical Mama Mia! “My grandchildren were all in school in New York in September 2001 and 11 parents at their school were killed in the attacks,” she said. “This was an extremely traumatic event for everyone in the city, and Mama Mia! became an important piece for me and my family at the time.

“When I had five little girls to entertain for my daughter’s birthday, I decided to take them all to see the show, and it was just the most glorious thing,” she added. “People were standing in their seats and dancing in the aisles. » Streep respected the musical because it brought so much joy to people. Even though Streep has starred in many prestigious films, the Sophie’s choice The star was always able to enjoy something campy and silly.

Meryl Streep chose the film over more serious projects

Streep also explained how she became the star of the film adaptation of Mama Mia! “I remember my agent called me to discuss three offers that he found very interesting,” she recalls. “They all looked very heavy and serious, and then at the end of the call he said, ‘Oh. and I almost forgot to mention it – you will probably laugh – but the people of Mama Mia! I want you. I’ll let them know it’s a pass. I woke up and said, ‘Oh, my God, no, I want to do that!’

When she discovered that Streep was interested in the project, producer Judy Craymer was not interested in any other actor for the lead role of Donna Sheridan. Streep had some experience as a singer, but she didn’t think singing was one of her main talents. Regardless, Craymer was convinced Streep was right for the role. Mama Mia! features other actors who aren’t known for their singing abilities in lead roles, like James Bond icon Pierce Brosnan and mean girls star Amanda Seyfried. Famously, Streep performs ABBA’s “The Winner Takes It All” in the film.

How “Mamma Mia!” » conquered the world

Mama Mia! became a huge success. Box Office Mojo reports that the film grossed over $144 million in the United States and over $465 million internationally. Combining these two figures, the film grossed over $610 million worldwide.

Of course, just because a film made money at the box office doesn’t mean it has a connection with audiences. Today, the true mark of a Hollywood film’s success is whether it inspired a sequel or a remake. Mama Mia! was followed by Mama Mia! Here we go againand an even more star-studded film whose cast includes Cher.

Musical comedy Mama Mia! It’s not high art but it helped Streep through some tough times.