Anne Hathaway almost didn’t play Andy Sachs. Discover which actresses were nearly cast in The Devil Wears Prada before her.
Anne Hathaway is now synonymous with the iconic role of Andy Sachs in The Devil Wears Prada, but few know that she was actually the ninth choice to star in the hit 2006 film. Years after its release, the truth behind the casting continues to astonish—especially since several high-profile actresses came very close to landing the lead role.
The revelation came from Hathaway herself during a television interview, where she confessed that many studios and producers didn’t initially see her as the best fit for a story set in the competitive world of fashion. However, her persistence—and the withdrawal of other candidates—eventually worked in her favour.
Among the actresses considered before Hathaway were several well-known names who, at the time, had a more commercially bankable profile. One of them was even offered the role three times and turned it down each time—something she later admitted to regretting. Others were tied up with different projects, while some simply didn’t connect with the character during its early development.
With a sequel now officially in the works, interest in the original casting process has resurfaced. While not all names have been publicly confirmed, it’s known that at least seven stars were seriously considered before Anne Hathaway landed the role that would propel her to a new level of international fame.
The story behind the casting of The Devil Wears Prada is not just a curious Hollywood anecdote—it’s also a reminder of the importance of persistence, timing, and instinct in the film industry. And while many actresses might have shone as Andy, only one managed to turn the role into a cultural icon.
Claire Danes
Reportedly in the running for the role, though she hasn’t made any public comments about her audition.
Kate Hudson
Was considered for the part, but there are no public statements from her regarding the audition.
Kirsten Dunst
Another contender, though she also hasn’t publicly commented on the process.
Juliette Lewis
Said to have been in contention, though she has not spoken publicly about the audition.
Natalie Portman
Was considered, but hasn’t shared any thoughts publicly about the role.
Scarlett Johansson
Her name came up during the casting process, but she too has remained silent on the matter.
Rachel McAdams
Rachel McAdams was heavily courted for the lead role in the film.
“We offered the part to Rachel McAdams three times. The studio was determined to cast her, and she was just as determined not to do it,” director David Frankel told EW.
The actress reflected on turning down the role—and several others—in a 2023 interview with Bustle. “I felt guilty for not taking advantage of the opportunity in front of me, because I knew I was in a very fortunate position,” she said. “But I also knew it didn’t align with my personality or what I needed to stay grounded.”
“There were definitely moments of anxiety, wondering if I was messing everything up and why I was doing it. It’s taken me years to understand what I was intuitively doing,” she reflected.
-380x380.webp)
-380x380.webp)
