Anna Daniels
Stanley Tucci’s role as Nigel, the clever and fashionable creative director in The Devil Wears Prada (2006), remains one of the film’s most memorable performances. Despite the movie’s acclaim and lasting influence in fashion and cinema, Tucci encountered unexpected challenges in finding work post-release. In a recent Vanity Fair interview, he discussed this dry spell in his career following the film’s success.
Since its release on June 30, 2006, The Devil Wears Prada not only highlighted the impressive talents of Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, and Emily Blunt, but also made Tucci’s character a fan favorite. However, Tucci found himself in a challenging situation, confessing, “I couldn’t get a job, and I didn’t quite understand that.” This forced him to accept roles in films like Blind Date and Swing Vote, which he later reflected weren’t his preferred projects.
By 2009, Tucci’s career began to rebound with notable performances in The Lovely Bones and Julie & Julia, showcasing his talent and determination. However, his journey was shaped not only by the industry’s fluctuations but also by his health. His battle with cancer six years prior necessitated a pause to reassess his priorities. Looking back, he acknowledged, “I probably started working too soon [after treatments]. I didn’t really have the energy…but you had to do it, and eventually you climb back up again.”
There is ongoing speculation regarding a potential sequel to The Devil Wears Prada, with Tucci hinting at the possibility. Although he remains discreet, fans are eager for a return of Nigel. The rumored sequel may begin production on November 30 and could feature the original cast, focusing on the challenges faced by traditional print magazines and offering a new outlook on the cherished narrative.
Tucci’s experiences serve as a testament that not even the most accomplished actors are immune to difficulties in their careers. His resilience and dedication reveal that, even when opportunities seem scarce in Hollywood, a comeback is always possible.
It’s surprising to realize that someone as skilled as Stanley Tucci encountered hurdles in finding roles after such a celebrated film like The Devil Wears Prada. His openness about the ups and downs of his professional life and his personal challenges enriches his narrative, making his return to success truly motivating. Tucci’s journey illustrates the unpredictable world of Hollywood, where even stellar performances can sometimes go unnoticed.
What are your thoughts on the possible sequel to The Devil Wears Prada? Which character are you most excited to see again?
