Meryl Streep on Ageing in Hollywood: “Happy to Represent” Women Over 70 in Lead Roles
Meryl Streep is stepping back into power—and making a point while she’s at it.
As she returns as the formidable Miranda Priestly in 'The Devil Wears Prada 2', the actor says she’s “happy to represent” older women in leading roles—something Hollywood still rarely offers.
Speaking at a press conference in Japan alongside co-star Anne Hathaway, Streep—who turns 77 this year—acknowledged how unusual her position is.
“You don’t see many 70-, almost 77-year-old women playing parts like this in any movie,” she said, adding with a laugh, “So I’m happy to represent.”
The comment lands with weight. Because in mainstream cinema, women past a certain age often slip out of focus.
“Women over 50… disappear into the woodwork,” Streep said. “Their interests and opinions are less valued in our culture.”
Her return as Priestly—sharp, influential, and still commanding the room—pushes against that narrative.
The sequel reunites much of the original cast, including Stanley Tucci and Emily Blunt, revisiting the high-stakes world of Runway magazine nearly two decades after the 2006 original, 'The Devil Wears Prada'.
War on Iran: The War That No One Won
10 Apr 2026 - Vol 04 | Issue 66
And the price of surviving it
Based on 'The Devil Wears Prada' by Lauren Weisberger, the first film followed a young journalist navigating the demanding world of fashion under Priestly’s steely leadership—a character long rumoured to be inspired by Anna Wintour.
The new film leans into a changing industry. As traditional magazine publishing declines, Priestly finds herself navigating a shifting power structure—this time facing off against Blunt’s character, now a senior executive controlling the advertising dollars she needs.
New additions to the cast include Kenneth Branagh, Lucy Liu, and Justin Theroux, among others, while several familiar faces return.
Set for a theatrical release on May 1, 'The Devil Wears Prada 2' arrives with nostalgia, star power—and a sharper question underneath:
Who gets to stay visible as they age? Streep, as ever, isn’t waiting for permission.
(With inputs from ANI)