Meryl Streep, a highly acclaimed Hollywood actress, is returning to one of her most memorable roles as Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada 2, nearly 17 years after the original film’s 2006 release. This upcoming sequel revives the character of the demanding fashion magazine editor and marks a significant moment for Streep’s ongoing career, especially as it represents her return to a major theatrical project.
The Gap Since Meryl Streep’s Last Theatrical Film Appearance
Although Meryl Streep remains an influential presence in the film industry, she has not starred in a major theatrical release since 2019. Her previous significant film was Greta Gerwig’s Little Women, where she played Aunt March, a smaller but well-received supporting role. Since then, Streep’s screen appearances have largely been on streaming platforms or limited releases rather than big theatrical events.
In 2021, she appeared alongside Jennifer Lawrence and Leonardo DiCaprio in Netflix’s Don’t Look Up, portraying President Janie Orlean. The film had a brief theatrical release primarily to qualify for Academy Award consideration, but its main audience was via streaming services.
Other recent works include roles in The Prom as Dee Dee Allen, Let Them All Talk as Alice Hughes, and The Laundromat as Ellen Martin. Streep also starred as Loretta Durkin in Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building, which continues her presence in television and streaming formats rather than cinema.
The Significance of The Devil Wears Prada 2 for Streep’s Career
The release of The Devil Wears Prada 2 signals a major theatrical event for Meryl Streep, marking her return to a format where she has traditionally excelled and attracted critical acclaim. Unlike some of her recent supporting roles, this sequel provides Streep with a prominent role, returning as the central figure Miranda Priestly alongside original cast members including Anne Hathaway as Andrea “Andy” Sachs, Emily Blunt as Emily, and Stanley Tucci as Nigel.
This film is expected to rekindle interest among audiences nostalgic for the original and introduce the character to a new generation. After years of involvement in streaming projects and limited theatrical showings, this sequel has the potential to highlight Streep’s enduring star power on the big screen once again.
