Film and TV powerhouses Meryl Streep and Oprah Winfrey were seen hugging and holding hands as they appeared on the red carpet together at The 2023 Academy Museum Gala.

Both women were honoured at the third annual fundraiser: Meryl received the Icon Award, in celebration of her significant global cultural impact and Oprah was given the Pillar Award, thanks to her exemplary leadership and support for the Academy Museum.

They were the picture of friendship as they smiled and chatted at the gala (which was able to continue despite actors' strikes).

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As actors' strikes continue to rumble on, SAG-AFTRA Foundation (a charity that provides financial assistance) recently announced that Oprah and Meryl - alongside George Clooney - had been amongst the stars spearheading a donation campaign for striking actors.

The women have each donated $1 million or more, with the likes of Matt Damon, Leonardo DiCaprio, Nicole Kidman and Julia Roberts also following suit.

As of August, donations had topped $15 million (which converts to roughly just under £12 million).

In a statement, Meryl said: “I remember my days as a waiter, cleaner, typist, even my time on the unemployment line,” before adding, “In this strike action, I am lucky to be able to support those who will struggle in a long action to sustain against Goliath.”

Meryl and Oprah have continuously supported each other over the years.

In 2018, in light of rumours that Oprah was going to run for U.S president, Meryl praised her friend as having "the voice of a leader."

Following Oprah's inspiring speech at the 2018 Golden Globes, Meryl spoke highly of her friend, telling Andrew Marr on his former BBC show, "That is how you rouse people. That is how you lead."