Meryl Streep has shared that she did not immediately say yes to one of her most iconic roles in The Devil Wears Prada. In fact, the actor initially rejected the offer altogether, despite knowing the film was destined to be a success.
During a candid conversation with Today, Streep recalled reading the script and instantly recognising its potential. “I knew it was going to be a hit. I read the script and the script was great,” she revealed.
But when the makers approached her with an offer to play the formidable Miranda Priestly, her response was a firm no. What followed, however, was less about hesitation and more about strategy. “They called me up and they made an offer, and I said ‘No. I’m not going to do it.’ I wanted to see if I doubled my ask, and they went right away and said ‘Sure.’ I’m 56 years [old] – it took me this long to understand that I could do that! I was sure it would be a hit. And they needed me, I felt. And I wanted it, but if they didn’t want to do that, I was okay. Because I’m old – I’m 56, I was ready to retire,” she added. To her surprise, the makers agreed immediately. Streep also admitted that moment being a turning point in her career.
While she wanted to retire, history played out very differently. Streep went on to portray Miranda Priestly with chilling precision. Her character is still recognised and considered an asset in pop culture discussions. The film, which also starred Anne Hathaway and Emily Blunt, became a global hit and remains a fashion staple nearly two decades later.
The makers are also coming with a sequel to The Devil Wears Prada, called The Devil Wears Prada 2. The movie is slated to release worldwide on May 1, 2026.
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