Key Highlights
- The Devil Wears Prada (2006) helped Emily Blunt avoid typecasting in her early acting career.
- Anne Hathaway’s role in The Devil Wears Prada also broke her mold from Disney Princess roles.
- The sequel, released on May 1, 2026, aims to continue the legacy of the original film.
- Blunt reflects on the movie as a “nostalgia bank” with deeper themes beyond its fashion industry portrayal.
The Devil Wears Prada: A Turning Point for Emily Blunt and Anne Hathaway
In 2006, The Devil Wears Prada not only became a cultural phenomenon but also served as a pivotal moment in the careers of Emily Blunt and Anne Hathaway. The film, directed by David Frankel with Meryl Streep playing the iconic Miranda Priestly, provided both actresses with opportunities to showcase their versatility beyond the roles that had defined them earlier.
Breaking Typecasting for Emily Blunt
Blunt’s role as assistant Miranda Priestly’s personal assistant, Emily Charlton, was crucial in her journey. According to Blunt, “The Devil Wears Prada” changed the trajectory of her career by ensuring she wasn’t stuck in the category of British period drama roles that had initially defined her. “It paved the way for character roles,” she explained, emphasizing how this movie opened doors for a broader range of performances.
Anne Hathaway’s Breakout Role
For Anne Hathaway, who played Andrea Sachs in the original film, The Devil Wears Prada similarly served as a turning point. Prior to her role in “The Princess Diaries” and “Ella Enchanted,” Hathaway was primarily recognized for Disney roles. However, her portrayal of Andrea in this film helped her transition into more complex and challenging characters. “It helped me break out of the mold that had been set for me by Disney,” Hathaway noted.
The Sequel: A Return to the Fashion World
On May 1, 2026, The Devil Wears Prada will return with a sequel, bringing back Blunt and Streep alongside Anne Hathaway. Originally hesitant due to concerns about the current digital climate, Hathaway eventually agreed to reprise her role. This reunion promises to be a nostalgic yet fresh experience for fans of the original film.
Reflections on the Legacy
Reflecting on the legacy of The Devil Wears Prada, Blunt sees it as more than just a movie. “It’s that shift in tone that people really gravitate toward,” she said, acknowledging its blend of comedy and deeper themes. For both Blunt and Hathaway, this film remains a significant part of their careers, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of their acting styles.
The sequel not only honors the original but also promises to continue its exploration of themes that made it so impactful. With the return of Frankel and co-writer Aline Brosh McKenna, audiences can look forward to seeing these iconic characters once again, navigating the complexities of fashion and ambition in a new chapter.
