When the cast of The Devil Wears Prada 2 reunited after nearly two decades, they didn't just bring back the iconic fashion and biting one-liners—they also pulled off one of the savviest salary negotiations in recent Hollywood history. According to a new report, Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, and Emily Blunt each secured a whopping $12.5 million upfront for the sequel, thanks to a clever "favored nations" deal that ensured equal pay across the board.
The original 2006 film was a sleeper hit, grossing over $325 million worldwide on a modest $40 million budget. Streep, who earned $4 million for the first movie, knew her value and negotiated a raise for the sequel. But instead of taking a bigger slice for herself, she opted for a deal that lifted all three leading ladies together. The result? Each star walks away with at least $12.5 million—and potentially up to $20 million once back-end revenue kicks in.
This isn't just about the money, though. It's a statement about star power and solidarity in an industry where pay disparities have long been a hot-button issue. Streep, with her record 21 Oscar nominations, remains the undisputed queen of the screen. Hathaway, an Oscar winner herself, has proven her range from Les Misérables to The Intern. And Blunt, fresh off an Oscar nomination for Oppenheimer, has become a bona fide leading lady. Together, they command a combined salary that reflects their collective clout.
Director David Frankel admitted that the bulk of the sequel's reported $100 million budget went to the cast. That investment seems to be paying off: the film is projected to cross $450 million globally by the end of its second weekend. Critics have embraced the return to Runway magazine, with the movie earning a "Certified Fresh" 78% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The consensus calls it "a sinfully enjoyable sequel" that delivers both wish fulfillment and sharp commentary on modern media.
For fans of the original, the sequel offers more than just nostalgia. It's a chance to see these actors sink back into roles that defined a generation. And for Hollywood, it's a reminder that when top-tier talent bands together, everyone wins. As the industry continues to grapple with questions of fairness and equity, this deal sets a powerful precedent.
If you're hungry for more behind-the-scenes stories, check out our piece on When Hollywood Gets Sick: 7 Productions Where Cast Members Threw Up On Set—a wild look at what happens when the cameras keep rolling despite illness. And for a deeper dive into another iconic franchise, don't miss Why 'The Force Will Be With You. Always' Remains Star Wars' Most Powerful Quote.
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