Did Martin Short Date Meryl Streep? Actors' Undeniable Chemistry Is Boosting 'Only Murders and Match' Game Popularity

Martin Short and Meryl Streep have sparked dating rumours after being seen kissing on set and holding hands while filming Only Murders in the Building Season 5 in New York.

With their characters now married and sharing intimate scenes, fans are questioning if the chemistry extends off-screen. While the romance remains unconfirmed, their connection is clearly boosting the show's success and driving interest in its companion mobile game, Only Murders and Match.

Martin Short and Meryl Streep Relationship Timeline

Martin Short and Meryl Streep's friendship spans over a decade, often appearing together at events like Broadway openings and SNL anniversaries. Their on-screen chemistry drew attention after Streep joined Only Murders in the Building in Season 3 (2023).

By August 2024, they were photographed holding hands at the Season 4 premiere, sparking dating rumours. In February 2025, Streep was seen making a cheeky gesture beside Short at the SNL concert, and in May, they filmed scenes as newlyweds Oliver and Loretta, sharing romantic moments on set.

Despite intense public scrutiny, both Streep and Short have consistently denied being in a romantic relationship. Martin Short told the media earlier this year, 'We're just very good friends.' according to People.

No official statements have confirmed any relationship beyond friendship, and neither actor has commented directly on the rumours since the Season 5 filming photos circulated.

How Meryl Streep Joined 'Only Murders in the Building'

Co-creator John Hoffman revealed that Meryl Streep had reached out to Martin Short as a fan of Only Murders in the Building, unaware that writers had already planned a romantic arc for their characters. Once cast, their real‑life chemistry aligned perfectly with the script.

Hoffman said they 'delighted in each other's company', and Streep became emotional after filming romantic scenes, sharing that she never expected to play such a role at this point in her career. As reported by Entertainment Weekly, Short has expressed how starstruck he felt on various occasions, highlighting his humble adoration for fellow legends and humanising his on‑set persona.

Actors Boost 'Only Murders' Ratings and Mobile Game Downloads

Streep's chemistry with Short sparked a spike in Only Murders in the Building viewership, with hashtags like #StreepyShort and #OnlyMurdersLove trending during Season 4. Fan content and ship theories flooded TikTok and Reddit.

Their popularity also boosted Only Murders and Match, the companion mobile game, which saw a surge in downloads and engagement as its romantic storylines mirrored the show, as reported by USA Today.

Martin Short Wins SAG Award as Meryl Streep Scores Praise for 'Only Murders' Role

In early 2025, Martin Short received his first Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series. Meryl Streep was nominated for her recurring guest role. Critics and industry insiders credited their believable romantic dynamic as a major factor in the show's continued success, particularly as it expanded into interactive media.

Fans React to Martin Short and Meryl Streep's Chemistry

Fans continue to analyse every moment between Martin Short and Meryl Streep, from red carpet appearances to viral behind-the-scenes clips. Their chemistry has helped make this the show's most talked-about season. Whether it's brilliant acting or something more, viewers are watching closely, on and off screen.