Stephanie Szostak, known for her role in The Devil Wears Prada, employed a unique tactic—plastering her bathroom with photos of Meryl Streep—to prepare for her first major studio film and overcome potential intimidation, a fascinating strategy that continues to captivate fans as the highly anticipated sequel nears production.
In the glitzy, cutthroat world of high fashion depicted in The Devil Wears Prada, the presence of legendary actress Meryl Streep as the formidable Miranda Priestly could be daunting for any co-star. Yet, for Stephanie Szostak, who played rival editor Jacqueline Follet, intimidation was not an option. Szostak revealed a wonderfully creative and highly effective tactic she used to prepare for her scenes opposite the iconic actress: she plastered her bathroom with Streep’s photos.
This ingenious method, shared in an exclusive interview with People, offers a fascinating glimpse into an actor’s preparation and underscores the lasting cultural impact of the 2006 comedy-drama, which continues to be a fan favorite.
The Devil Wears Prada: A Timeless Classic
Released in 2006, The Devil Wears Prada quickly cemented its place as a beloved film. Directed by David Frankel and based on Lauren Weisberger’s novel, the movie tells the story of Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway), a sensible graduate who lands a job as the assistant to the demanding editor-in-chief of a high fashion magazine, Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep). The film, rated PG-13, masterfully blends comedy and drama, exploring themes of ambition, sacrifice, and identity within the glamorous but often brutal fashion industry.
The stellar cast, including Emily Blunt as the perpetually stressed Emily, Stanley Tucci as the wise Nigel, and Adrian Grenier as Andy’s boyfriend Nate, contributed significantly to its success. The film garnered widespread critical acclaim, earning 2 Oscar nominations and a total of 19 wins and 53 nominations, solidifying its reputation as a cinematic achievement. Details on the film’s accolades and full cast can be found on IMDb.
Stephanie Szostak’s Unique Preparation
For Stephanie Szostak, The Devil Wears Prada marked her debut in a studio film. Her role as Jacqueline Follet, a sharp rival editor vying for Miranda Priestly’s position, required her to hold her own against Streep’s formidable on-screen presence. To ensure she wasn’t overwhelmed, Szostak, who is French and began acting in her late 20s after working for Chanel, devised an unconventional strategy.
As she explained to People, “When I got the job, I was like, ‘Oh, I gotta play opposite Meryl Streep, so I can’t be intimidated when we get on set.’ And so I plastered my bathroom with pictures of Meryl Streep.” For three weeks, every morning she would greet the photos, brushing her teeth while saying, “‘Hello, hi Miranda,’… just to help me be familiar with her. And it worked.”
Szostak recounted Streep’s surprising kindness and graciousness on set. During a scene filmed in a Parisian cafe, Streep even sought Szostak’s opinion on the realism of the setting, acknowledging her European background. “She took me under the arm and we went to talk to the director,” Szostak recalled, highlighting Streep’s generosity despite Szostak being a “day player.” This collaborative spirit, even from a legend, showcases the respectful environment behind the scenes of a film that would become so influential.
Beyond the Bathroom: The Film’s Enduring Legacy
Szostak admits that none of the cast or crew “had any idea when we were shooting that movie that it would become what it is — a cultural reference point.” Indeed, The Devil Wears Prada transcended its initial box office success to become a beloved classic, especially among professional women. The film’s portrayal of a challenging work environment and a demanding female boss resonated with many who have faced similar situations in their careers, as noted by various cultural commentators.
The film’s sharp dialogue, particularly Miranda Priestly’s infamous “cerulean sweater” monologue, and its exploration of the often-unseen sacrifices made for career advancement, have sparked countless discussions and analyses within fan communities. It’s a testament to the film’s depth that it remains highly rewatchable and relevant almost two decades later.
A Full-Circle Moment: The Highly Anticipated Sequel
The enduring popularity of The Devil Wears Prada has fueled consistent calls for a sequel, and fans rejoiced when a continuation was confirmed in July 2024. Many of the original stars, including Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci, are expected to return, reprising their iconic roles within an evolved high-fashion journalism industry. The cast has already been spotted filming around New York City, sparking immense anticipation for what promises to be another glamorous and insightful chapter.
For Szostak, this period brings another full-circle moment with her latest project, Soul on Fire, which debuted in theaters on October 10, 2025. In this film, she plays the mother of burn victim John O’Leary, who became a motivational speaker. This role held personal significance, as Szostak and her family had followed O’Leary’s story for years, illustrating how profound connections can emerge in an actor’s career, much like her unforgettable experience on The Devil Wears Prada.
From a strategic approach to overcoming on-set nerves to participating in an unexpected cultural phenomenon, Stephanie Szostak’s journey with The Devil Wears Prada highlights the intricate layers behind cinematic magic. As fans eagerly await the sequel, her story serves as a charming reminder of the dedication and unique methods actors employ to bring their characters to life, making a timeless film even more captivating.
