Carson Kressley, known for his role on Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, revealed that he was considered alongside Stanley Tucci for the part of Nigel in the 2006 film The Devil Wears Prada. Speaking on Today with Jenna & Sheinelle, Kressley recounted the experience during the casting process, highlighting his close competition with Tucci for the role of the sharp-tongued art director.
Why Kressley Missed the Role in The Devil Wears Prada
The film, directed by David Frankel, follows Anne Hathaway’s character Andy Sachs as she navigates being the assistant to Miranda Priestly, the ruthless editor-in-chief of Runway magazine, played by Meryl Streep. Kressley explained that although the casting team was very supportive, their concerns about his limited acting background ultimately led them to favor Tucci.
“[They] said, ‘Oh God, you’re great, we love you, but we can’t have somebody who’s never been in a movie in the scene with Meryl Streep. That might be too big of a gamble.’ So I didn’t get it,”
Kressley recalled, adding with humor, Damn you, Stanley Tucci!
Kressley’s Good-Natured Reflection on the Rivalry
During his interview, co-host Jenna Bush Hager mentioned that Stanley Tucci would appear on the show the following day. When asked if he had a message for Tucci, Kressley quipped, “Thanks for ruining my career!” However, he quickly praised Tucci’s talent and accomplishments.
“No, he is amazing, and he was so great in it,”
Kressley said.
I love all his cooking shows, going to Italy. In my research about Stanley Tucci, which I was making my voodoo doll — I mean, when I was just researching — I found out we have the same birthday, we’re both November 11. So there will be a time when I do something with Stanley.”
Stanley Tucci’s Return to the Role in the Upcoming Sequel
This May, Tucci is set to reprise his role as Nigel in The Devil Wears Prada 2, reuniting with actors Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, and Emily Blunt. The sequel, highly anticipated by fans, will also feature new cast members including Simone Ashley, Justin Theroux, B.J. Novak, and Lucy Liu. The story will focus on Miranda Priestly’s renewed rivalry with Emily Charlton, now an executive competing to maintain advertising revenue amid challenges in the print industry.
Carson Kressley’s Continued Career in Television and Fashion
Beyond his near casting in the film, Kressley remains well-known for his role in the original Fab Five on the Bravo reality series Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, which saw a revival as Queer Eye. Following the show’s success, he has worked as a television personality and style expert, hosting How to Look Good Naked in 2008 and serving as a recurring judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race since 2015.
Significance and Future Prospects
Kressley’s anecdote sheds light on the complexities and uncertainties actors face during casting, especially when competing with established talents like Stanley Tucci. The forthcoming sequel offers an opportunity for fans to revisit the iconic characters and witness how the fashion world adapts to changing times. Meanwhile, Kressley’s ongoing presence in fashion and television ensures his continued influence in the entertainment industry.
