It may come as a surprise to many fans of The Devil Wears Prada that Anne Hathaway was not the first choice to play the iconic role of Andy Sachs. During a 2021 appearance on RuPaul’s Drag Race, Hathaway herself revealed that she was the ninth choice for the part. This revelation has sparked renewed interest, especially as production for the sequel is officially underway. We delved into the casting history to uncover who else was considered for the role alongside Meryl Streep and Emily Blunt.
While we couldn’t identify all eight actresses considered before Hathaway, we did manage to compile a list of seven potential stars. Intriguingly, one actress turned down the role three times and later expressed feelings of “guilt” over the decision. Here’s a closer look at the actresses who almost stepped into Hathaway’s shoes.
Who Almost Played Andy Sachs?
The casting process for The Devil Wears Prada was as competitive and cutthroat as the fashion industry it portrays. Among the actresses considered were some of Hollywood’s most prominent talents. The list includes names such as Rachel McAdams, Scarlett Johansson, and Natalie Portman, each bringing their unique flair to the role.
Rachel McAdams, fresh off her success with The Notebook, was reportedly the top choice for the role. However, she declined the offer multiple times, as she was taking a break from mainstream Hollywood projects to focus on smaller, independent films. McAdams later admitted to feeling “guilty” about turning down the opportunity, acknowledging the film’s eventual success and cultural impact.
The Impact of Casting Choices
Choosing the right actress for Andy Sachs was crucial, as the character serves as the audience’s entry point into the glamorous yet ruthless world of fashion. The Devil Wears Prada not only became a box office hit but also a cultural phenomenon, influencing fashion and media alike. Anne Hathaway’s portrayal of Andy Sachs became iconic, capturing the character’s transformation from a naive newcomer to a confident professional.
According to casting director Debra Zane, the decision to cast Hathaway was ultimately driven by her ability to convey both vulnerability and resilience, qualities essential to Andy’s character arc. Zane noted, “Anne brought a relatability and depth to Andy that resonated with audiences worldwide.”
Historical Parallels and Industry Trends
The casting saga of The Devil Wears Prada is reminiscent of other iconic films where the lead role was initially offered to multiple actresses. For instance, the role of Vivian Ward in Pretty Woman was famously turned down by several actresses before Julia Roberts was cast, leading to her breakout performance.
This trend highlights the unpredictable nature of Hollywood casting, where the right fit often emerges after numerous considerations. It also underscores the importance of timing and personal choice in an actress’s career trajectory.
Looking Ahead: The Sequel’s Casting Prospects
With the sequel to The Devil Wears Prada on the horizon, speculation about casting choices is once again a topic of interest. Will Anne Hathaway reprise her role, or will a new actress take on the challenge of portraying Andy Sachs? The casting decisions will undoubtedly shape the sequel’s reception and its place in the legacy of the original film.
As fans eagerly await further announcements, the story of The Devil Wears Prada‘s casting serves as a reminder of the intricate dynamics behind Hollywood’s most beloved films. Whether through the lens of fashion or film, the journey of Andy Sachs continues to captivate audiences, proving that the right role at the right time can define a career.
