Meryl Streep pays tribute to Misty Upham

Meryl Streep has paid tribute to her ‘August: Osage County’ co-star Misty Upham.

The 65-year-old star has spoken out following the news that a body found near a river in Seattle, Washington was confirmed to be that of the 32-year-old actress – who went missing nearly two weeks ago after admitting she was suicidal.

Meryl told The Hollywood Reporter: ”So so sad to hear this news – all our thoughts are with her family and with her beautiful spirit.”

Misty’s co-star Melissa Leo, who she starred alongside in ‘Frozen River’, has also spoken of her sadness at hearing of the tragic death, saying: ”Such a loss… so sad, so so sad.”

Misty was last seen on October 5 near a relative’s home in Auburn, Washington after returning to the Seattle area to help care for her father Charles Upham, who suffered a stroke last year.

After discovering his daughter had gone missing, Charles revealed that his daughter was upset and erratic and had stopped taking the medication for her anxiety and bipolar disorder.

Misty was a keen supporter of PETA, an animal rights organisation, who have also released a statement following her death.

Founder Ingrid E Newkirk said: ”The world will be a colder place without Misty’s warm heart, and she will be sorely missed at PETA. She was extremely kind and cared deeply about animals; constantly calling for protection for the bears suffering in roadside zoos on tribal land, a call we will carry forward in her honor. It’s a tragedy whenever anyone dies before their time, but Misty Upham was a friend to us and to animals everywhere.”

It is so far unclear what caused Misty’s death, although Police Commander Steve Stocker said there was presently no evidence or information ”to believe there is foul play”.