‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ delayed for 20 years as director reveals real reason behind sequel wait

Director David Frankel explains the sequel only moved forward after fashion media changes reshaped the story idea

The long awaited sequel The Devil Wears Prada 2 is finally set to reach cinemas after nearly two decades of speculation, with director David Frankel revealing why the project took 20 years to come together. The film reunites Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep, Stanley Tucci and Emily Blunt, returning to their original roles from the 2006 hit that became a defining fashion industry comedy drama.

At the European premiere, Frankel explained that despite ongoing interest from audiences, the creative team struggled for years to find a story strong enough to justify revisiting the characters. He said that multiple ideas were considered over time, but none were developed into a script that felt worthy of bringing the original cast back together.

According to Frankel, the breakthrough came when screenwriter Aline Brosh McKenna revisited the world of fashion and media as it exists today. She identified how dramatically both industries have shifted since the mid 2000s, particularly in relation to digital platforms, fast moving content cycles and the decline of traditional print influence. This change provided the foundation for a new narrative direction.

The sequel follows Miranda Priestly as she attempts to keep Runway relevant in a rapidly changing media environment. Andy Sachs returns to the fashion magazine, while Nigel continues as a key figure behind the scenes. Emily Charlton, now a powerful luxury brand executive, also plays a central role, bringing industry influence that could help reshape Runway’s future.

Frankel noted that part of the delay was also driven by respect for the original film’s legacy and cast. He explained that the creative team was unwilling to move forward without a strong concept, particularly given the expectation surrounding the return of Meryl Streep’s character and the cultural impact of the first film.

The director added that revisiting the project now felt appropriate because the world that shaped the original story has changed significantly. He described the reunion of cast and crew as a positive experience, suggesting that the timing ultimately allowed the sequel to reflect both character development and industry transformation.

Alongside the returning cast, the film introduces new characters played by Kenneth Branagh, Lucy Liu, Justin Theroux and Simone Ashley. Their roles expand the modernised setting of the fashion and media world depicted in the sequel.

The Devil Wears Prada 2 is set for theatrical release on May 1, 2026, in the United States, with some international markets releasing it on April 30, 2026.