Meryl Streep paid tribute to Stanley Tucci when he was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, using the moment to reflect on both his career and their decades-long friendship.
Tucci was honored alongside Emily Blunt in a rare joint ceremony in Los Angeles, drawing a crowd that included John Krasinski, Matt Damon and Dwayne Johnson. Streep, who co-starred with Tucci in “The Devil Wears Prada” and “Julie & Julia,” took to the stage to praise her frequent co-star.
“Stanley has a grace in his heterosexuality, and his undeniable heterosexuality is frightening,” Streep said (via People). “It’s not that heterosexuality is better than any other kind of sexuality. It’s just that grace, a real, unforced, natural, unstyled grace. For straight men, that’s sometimes difficult.”
Streep went on to praise Tucci’s screen presence and versatility, describing him as “urban, snarky, and funny,” and saying, “He always finds something true and surprising in every man he plays. He transforms character performances into leading male material.”
Her comments also got personal, reflecting on their longtime relationship. “I love you just like everyone else. It’s impossible not to love Stanley Tucci,” she said. “I know you more as a friend than a scene partner. We’ve been through some tough times and some great times together. I love you deeply.”
Streep added, “I loved working with Stanley and have worked with him often. If you give me the elegant little finger, I’d go back any time.”
Tucci and Streep reunited on screen in The Devil Wears Prada 2, currently in theaters.
