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Meg Ryan Then and Now: 'When Harry Met Sally' star's transformation through the years

Despite Meg Ryan's recent absence in films, her remarkable performances during the '90s have left an indelible mark on Hollywood

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Meg Ryan, the beloved actress known for her iconic roles in Hollywood, has chosen to step away from the spotlight in recent years.

Despite her recent absence in films, her remarkable performances during the 1990s have left an indelible mark on Hollywood and the rom-com genre in particular. 

Meg Ryan's early life

Born as Margaret Hyra on November 9, 1961, in Fairfield, Connecticut, Meg Ryan moved to New York City to follow her acting dreams while at NYU. 

Meg Ryan's early career 

Meg Ryan's journey to stardom began with several TV roles, but her breakthrough came on the soap opera 'As the World Turns'. She portrayed the character Betsy, the town's good girl, in 30 episodes spanning from 1975 to 1984.

Meg Ryan in 'Top Gun' (1986)

In the 1986 movie 'Top Gun', Meg Ryan played the character Carole Bradshaw alongside action star Tom Cruise. She portrayed the wife of Anthony Edwards' character, Nick "Goose" Bradshaw.

However, she didn't return for the 2022 sequel, 'Top Gun: Maverick'.

Meg Ryan in 'When Harry Met Sally' (1989)

In the iconic romantic comedy 'When Harry Met Sally', Meg Ryan portrayed the lead female character, Sally Albright. The film, released in 1989, had Ryan in the lead opposite comedian Billy Crystal.

The rom-com classic is known for its memorable diner scene and its exploration of the dynamics of friendship and love. Meg Ryan's role as Sally Albright catapulted her into a successful career as a romantic leading lady for over a decade.

It also earned her the first of three Golden Globe Award nominations for Best Actress. 

Meg Ryan in 'Joe Versus the Volcano' (1990)

Meg Ryan played the role of three different characters - DeDe, Angelica, and Patricia in the film 'Joe Versus the Volcano'. The 1990 romantic comedy featured her alongside Tom Hanks, and it was one of her early collaborations with the actor.

Meg Ryan in 'Sleepless in Seattle' (1993)

Meg Ryan starred as the character Annie Reed in the 1993 romantic comedy 'Sleepless in Seattle,' alongside Tom Hanks.

This classic film was a massive success, earning over $225 million at the box office. It also cemented Ryan's status as "America's sweetheart". 

Meg Ryan in 'You've Got Mail' (1998)

Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks teamed up once again in 1998 for the romantic comedy 'You've Got Mail,' in which she played the character Kathleen Kelly.

The movie gained significant success with a box office revenue of $250 million. Ryan's performance in the film earned her a third Golden Globe Award nomination, marking a notable accolade in her career. 

Meg Ryan married Dennis Quaid in 1991 and divorced in 2001

Meg Ryan and Dennis Quaid first met while filming the movie 'Innerspace' in 1987 and got married in 1991.

However, their marriage faced challenges, and they divorced in 2001. Their relationship and subsequent separation were subjects of significant media attention at the time.

Meg Ryan and son Jack Quaid

Meg Ryan and Dennis Quaid have a son together - Jack.

Jack Quaid has appeared in various film and television roles, gaining recognition for his performances in projects such as 'The Boys', 'The Hunger Games' and his recent film 'Oppenheimer'. 

Meg Ryan and Russell Crowe

Meg Ryan and Russell Crowe crossed paths while filming the 2000 movie 'Proof of Life'. Following their on-screen collaboration, they briefly dated, but broke up soon after.

Meg Ryan and daughter Daisy

Meg Ryan adopted a daughter named Daisy True Ryan in 2006. Daisy was adopted from China when she was just 2 years old. 

Meg Ryan directs 'Ithaca' (2015)

Meg Ryan directed the 2015 American drama film 'Ithaca' which was written by Erik Jendresen and adapted from William Saroyan's 1943 novel 'The Human Comedy.'

The movie boasts a star-studded cast, including Meg Ryan herself, her son Jack Quaid, Tom Hanks, Sam Shepard, Hamish Linklater, and Alex Neustaedter. 'Ithaca' hit theaters on September 9, 2016.

Meg Ryan's relationship with John Mellencamp

Meg Ryan's most recent romantic involvement was with the singer John Mellencamp. The two had an on-again, off-again relationship and were reported to be engaged at one point.

However, in 2019, they decided to part ways for good, ending their nearly 8-year relationship.

Meg Ryan attended the amfAR Gala in 2021

Meg Ryan stole the spotlight at the 2021 amfAR Gala Los Angeles in a stunning black ensemble. The amfAR Gala, organized by the Foundation for AIDS Research, is a prominent nonprofit dedicated to advancing AIDS research, HIV prevention, treatment education, and advocacy on a global scale.

Did Meg Ryan get plastic surgery?

Rumors of plastic surgery have surrounded Meg Ryan due to her smooth complexion and plumper pout, although she has consistently denied such claims.

Ryan, who had not been photographed since November 2021, looked unrecognizable in a rare public appearance at a screening of Michael J. Fox's documentary in May, 2023.

Plastic surgeon Mark Youssef, suggested that Ryan may have undergone what he considered to be "too many" cosmetic procedures, as per Hollywood Life.

He speculated that potential alterations might include filler or fat transfer to her cheeks, a nose job, lip injections, Botox, a facelift, and even laser skin resurfacing.

Meg Ryan supports SAG-AFTRA strike (2023)

Meg Ryan has stepped up to support the SAG-AFTRA strike, standing up for the rights and welfare of fellow actors and performers. She returned to Instagram after a prolonged period of inactivity to share a post expressing her solidarity with the strike.