In a discovery that bridges the gap between Hollywood royalty and the pinnacle of high fashion, new genealogical research has revealed a surprising blood connection between Academy Award winner Meryl Streep and legendary Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour. While Streep famously portrayed the Wintour-inspired character Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada, the ties between the two women are far more literal than previously imagined.
A Shared Heritage in Neighboring Pennsylvania
According to data unearthed by Ancestry, Streep and Wintour are sixth cousins. This familial link was identified through an analysis of over 70 billion records, tracing both women back to their fifth great-grandparents, Thomas Smith and Elizabeth Kinsey. Interestingly, both icons were born in 1949, further cementing their parallel timelines in American culture.
For readers in Western New York, the geographic roots of this discovery hit close to home. The shared ancestors of Streep and Wintour resided in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. This location is roughly 20 miles from Allentown, the hometown of Lauren Weisberger—the author of the original The Devil Wears Prada novel and a former assistant to Wintour herself. This regional cluster of history and talent adds a significant layer of depth to the narrative surrounding the two women.
Comparing the Icons: A Familial Breakdown
To better understand the connection between these two powerhouse figures, the following table outlines their shared history and career milestones:
| Category | Meryl Streep | Anna Wintour |
|---|---|---|
| Birth Year | 1949 | 1949 |
| Ancestral Root | Bucks County, PA | Bucks County, PA |
| “The Devil Wears Prada” | Portrayed Miranda Priestly | Inspiration for the Character |
| Current Role | Award-winning Actress/Producer | Global Editorial Director, Vogue |
Art Imitating Life
The “Miranda Priestly” connection has been a staple of pop culture discourse for nearly two decades. While Wintour has historically remained diplomatic regarding the comparisons—stating that similarities are for the “audience and colleagues to decide”—this genealogical revelation brings the “art imitating life” trope to a full circle. It appears the steely discipline and leadership qualities associated with both women might be a shared family trait.
As Lake Erie Times continues to monitor regional news and its impact on broader culture, this story serves as a reminder of how deeply interconnected our regional histories can be. Whether in the fashion houses of Manhattan or the film sets of Hollywood, the roots often lead back to the communities of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.
Looking Ahead
Both cousins remain at the forefront of their respective industries. Anna Wintour continues her tenure as Vogue’s global editorial director and chief content officer for Condé Nast, recently overseeing the appointment of Chloe Malle to key editorial roles within the brand. Meanwhile, Meryl Streep continues to garner critical acclaim for her recent television and film projects, maintaining her status as one of the most decorated performers in history.
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