Emily Blunt just confirmed The Devil Wears Prada 2 is officially in active development with Meryl Streep attached, and she’s also been sharing incredible behind-the-scenes stories from filming The Smashing Machine with Jake Gyllenhaal.
Prada Sequel News
Blunt told The Hollywood Reporter that conversations about Prada sequel started “about 18 months ago” when David Frankel expressed interest in reuniting the original cast for Andy Sachs’ 2025 follow-up story. The first film (2006) grossed $326 million worldwide, making it one of cinema’s most successful fashion films.
“Meryl keeps the door open for returning as Miranda,” Blunt explained. “The question is whether we can create something that matches the original’s cultural impact without feeling like a cheap cash grab.”
The sequel apparently explores Andy’s evolution as a magazine editor herself, dealing with the same ruthless fashion industry dynamics from a position of power rather than assistant insecurity. Blunt will play a version of Andy confronting her own Miranda-like tendencies.
Frankel has committed to directing if the script achieves quality standards. The filmmakers are avoiding simple nostalgia – instead updating the satirical commentary to reflect 2025 fashion industry realities including influencer culture and sustainability concerns.
Smashing Machine Memories
While promoting The Smashing Machine (which premiered October 2025), Blunt shared stories about working alongside Gyllenhaal, Mark Ruffalo, and wrestling legend Jon Bernthal who trained extensively for his role as “The Hammer” Schramm.
“Jake immersed himself completely,” Blunt recalled. “He’d study wrestlers for 12 hours daily, learning not just moves but the psychology of combat sports. His dedication influenced everyone’s performance level.”
The film follows wrestler Mark Kerr’s (portrayed by Dwayne Johnson in separate project) story, but Gyllenhaal’s character represents the manipulative coach exploiting Kerr’s vulnerability. Director Benny Safdie filmed 347 takes of one scene between Gyllenhaal and Ruffalo to achieve perfect emotional intensity.
Preparation Methods
Blunt disclosed that The Smashing Machine required her to learn wrestling terminology and understand combat sports culture. “I spent three weeks training at an actual MMA gym,” she said. “Not to wrestle, but to understand the physical and psychological toll this sport demands.”
Her character plays a journalist investigating the coaching corruption that nearly destroyed Kerr’s career. The role required her to embody skepticism and determination while navigating male-dominated sports industry dynamics.
Emily Blunt and Dwayne Johnson in a scene from “The Smashing Machine.” (Photo Eric Zachanowich)
The film stars Gyllenhaal, Ruffalo, Bernthal, and Jon Bernthal (brother of actor Jon Bernthal), creating intense chemistry through their authentic understanding of wrestling culture. Early screenings suggest box office potential of $180-250 million globally.
Career Trajectory
Blunt’s involvement in both Prada sequel and The Smashing Machine demonstrates her deliberate career choices prioritizing character-driven narratives. Unlike some A-listers chasing blockbuster franchises, she consistently selects projects offering artistic growth.
Her previous recent films include Oppenheimer (2023, $952 million), Pain Hustlers (Netflix, 2023), and The Fall Guy (2024, $183 million). This filmography shows strategic balance between prestige projects and commercial vehicles.
Production Timeline
The Devil Wears Prada 2 potentially filming in 2026 with 2027 release target. The sequel requires coordinating schedules for Blunt, Streep, and supporting cast including likely returns from Anne Hathaway and Stanley Tucci.
Blunt’s immediate projects include completion of The Running Man (Edgar Wright’s November 2025 release discussed separately) and development of her own production company projects.
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