Meryl Streep’s off-screen relationship with Martin Short is reportedly creating major disruptions on the set of Only Murders in the Building, with cast and crew members growing increasingly frustrated over the show’s shifting power dynamics.
Insiders say the Oscar-winning actress, who joined the Hulu series in Season 3, has become the center of attention both on and off set. While Streep’s return for Season 4 has already been confirmed, sources close to production say her presence is creating tension behind the scenes.
“Meryl is a big personality,” one source shared. “She’s treated like royalty, and her connection with Martin only amplifies that. Everyone else has to fall in line.”
Romance shifts creative control
Streep and Short, who have grown close since her debut on the show, have reportedly formed a bond that’s altering the direction of the series. Writers and producers, once guided by co-creator Steve Martin and executive producer Dan Fogelman, are now said to be tiptoeing around the couple’s growing influence.
“The show was once Steve’s vision,” an insider revealed. “Now it feels like everything is being rewritten to highlight Meryl. Scripts are shifting, and longtime creatives feel sidelined.”
Some crew members have even described the situation as unrecognizable from past seasons. Several report that the once collaborative atmosphere has become tense and hierarchical.
“People used to look forward to working on set,” the source added. “Now, it feels like the Meryl and Martin show.”
Set morale at an all-time low
Crew members are also voicing concerns about the effect Streep’s dominance is having on morale. According to one staffer, her influence has slowly pushed others out of the spotlight. Steve Martin, who co-created and stars in the show, is reportedly reluctant to confront the shift.
“Steve’s nature is easygoing, but that’s part of the problem,” the insider said. “He won’t push back, and Martin just goes along with it because he’s still starstruck.”
While many acknowledge Streep’s talent and charm, some feel the production has lost its original balance. With cast and writers now catering to one half of a real-life couple, others are reportedly left sidelined, unsure how to regain creative footing.
One crew member described Streep as a “queen bee” who unknowingly dominates the space, while Short appears happy to let her take control. The source noted that Streep’s ideas often take priority in scripts, even when they disrupt the show’s tone.
“There’s a growing feeling that no one else’s voice matters anymore,” they said.
As frustration mounts, insiders fear the show’s fourth season could mark a turning point — not just in storyline, but in how long the rest of the team is willing to play along.
And if whispers from the set are true, the murder mystery may not be the only thing unraveling on-screen.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.