In a surprising revelation about the making of The Devil Wears Prada 2, Anne Hathaway has disclosed that Meryl Streep abandoned the method acting approach she famously employed for the original film.
During an exclusive interview at the New York City premiere on April 20, Hathaway explained that while Streep fully embodied the formidable Miranda Priestly on the first film's set—sacrificing her natural sociability to keep the cast "sharper"—she chose a different path for the sequel.
"On the first one, Meryl made a huge sacrifice because she loves the hang," Hathaway shared. "She loves being by the camera truck, the conversations, the laughs. But she felt we would stand a little taller if we didn't feel so comfortable around her."
For the 2006 classic, Streep remained in character, creating an atmosphere that mirrored Priestly's intimidating presence. However, for the long-awaited follow-up, the legendary actress decided to reconnect with her castmates.
"When it came time for the sequel, Meryl decided she did want to spend more time with her costars," Hathaway recalled, noting that Streep essentially told the ensemble—which includes returning stars Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci—"You guys can do it yourselves."
Hathaway also reflected on the pressure of revisiting such an iconic story, admitting there were expectations but expressing confidence in the original team's reunion.
"This is the team that did it the first time. I would have felt scared if I was with a different team," the Oscar winner stated, adding that she's moved past overthinking such projects. "I'm kind of through that time in my life. I don't really want to focus on that part."
The actress emphasized the film's enduring global impact, revealing how The Devil Wears Prada continues to inspire audiences worldwide.
"So many people have told me that they dreamed big for their lives because of these characters," Hathaway shared. "It's been overwhelming to see that that is as true in New York City as it is in Seoul, South Korea, as it is in Shanghai."
The sequel promises to deliver both the fashion and workplace dynamics that made the original a cultural phenomenon, now with a more collaborative atmosphere behind the scenes thanks to Streep's changed approach.