The Role That Almost Slipped Through Anne Hathaway’s Fingers
It’s hard to imagine The Devil Wears Prada without Anne Hathaway playing the wide-eyed journalist Andrea Sachs. Her performance became one of the most memorable parts of the film, helping turn the movie into a pop-culture phenomenon. But here’s the twist most fans never knew: Hathaway wasn’t the first choice for the role. In fact, she wasn’t even close.
In interviews over the years, Hathaway revealed that she was actually the ninth actress considered for the part. The studio had its eyes on other names first, including Rachel McAdams, who was reportedly the original pick to play Andy Sachs. For a while, it looked like the role might go in a completely different direction.
1. hollywood Had Other Plans
Studios often chase big names when casting major films, and The Devil Wears Prada was no different. rachel McAdams was the top choice early on, thanks to her rising star power after hits like Mean Girls and The Notebook. But for various reasons, the role didn’t materialize for her.
That opened the door — slowly — for other actresses.
2. Hathaway’s Determined Push
Anne Hathaway didn’t quietly wait for the opportunity. She reportedly fought hard for the role, repeatedly expressing how much she wanted to play Andy. Even when the odds seemed stacked against her, she kept pushing.
Sometimes persistence matters more than first impressions.
3. The Moment Meryl Streep Spoke Up
Everything changed when Meryl Streep entered the conversation. After seeing Hathaway’s performance in Brokeback Mountain, Streep reportedly told the studio something simple but powerful:
“This girl’s great. We’ll work well together.”
Coming from one of the most respected actors in hollywood, that endorsement carried enormous weight.
4. A Casting Decision That Paid Off
Once Hathaway landed the role, the chemistry between her and Streep became one of the film’s biggest strengths. Their dynamic — awkward newcomer versus intimidating fashion powerhouse — gave the movie its unforgettable spark.
5. From Ninth Choice to Iconic Performance
Looking back, it’s almost unbelievable that Hathaway was so far down the casting list. Yet her portrayal of Andy Sachs ended up defining the film and helping turn The Devil Wears Prada into a beloved classic.
Sometimes the “backup option” becomes the perfect choice — and hollywood history is made in the process.
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