Hoffman-Streep On-Set Tensions Revealed in ‘Kramer vs. Kramer’

NEW YORK — The 1979 Academy Award-winning film “Kramer vs. Kramer,” starring Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep, is celebrated for its poignant portrayal of divorce and custody battles. However, behind the scenes, tensions between the two lead actors have come to light, revealing a strained working relationship.

Directed by Robert Benton, the film follows Ted Kramer (Hoffman), a workaholic advertising executive, as he navigates single parenthood after his wife Joanna (Streep) leaves him. The movie won five Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, and acting awards for both Hoffman and Streep. Despite its critical acclaim, the on-set dynamics were far from harmonious.

In a recent interview, Streep recounted an incident where Hoffman allegedly slapped her before filming a heated argument scene. “This was my first movie, and it was my first take in my first movie, and he just slapped me,” Streep said. “It was overstepping.” She acknowledged that while physical scenes sometimes require improvisation, Hoffman’s actions were inappropriate.

Further allegations from Michael Schulman‘s unauthorized biography, “Her Again: Becoming Meryl Streep,” suggest that Hoffman’s methods extended beyond the slap. During a courtroom scene, Hoffman reportedly whispered “John Cazale”—Streep’s late partner—in her ear to provoke an emotional response. In another instance, Hoffman smashed a wine glass without warning, startling Streep and the crew.

Hoffman has never directly addressed these claims. However, in a 2012 BAFTA event, he reflected on his personal struggles during the filming of “Kramer vs. Kramer,” stating, “I was getting divorced, I’d been partying with drugs, and it depleted me in every way.” Streep’s representative later clarified that Hoffman had apologized for his behavior, and the two had reached an understanding.

These revelations are part of a broader pattern of allegations against Hoffman. In 2017, multiple women accused him of sexual misconduct, including groping and verbal harassment. Hoffman has denied some claims while apologizing for others, stating, “I have the utmost respect for women and feel terrible that anything I might have done could have put her in an uncomfortable situation.”

Despite the on-set tensions, Streep has expressed forgiveness and admiration for Hoffman. In a 2020 interview, she said, “All is forgiven, and I really, really love him. I think he’s an amazing actor, but boy, I was mad that day.” Her measured response underscores her professionalism and ability to separate personal grievances from artistic collaboration.

“Kramer vs. Kramer” remains a landmark film in Hollywood history, but the behind-the-scenes conflicts serve as a reminder of the complexities of creative partnerships and the evolving standards for on-set behavior.