Stanley Tucci's turn as Nigel, the witty and stylish creative director in The Devil Wears Prada (2006), is undeniably one of the standout performances of the film. Yet, despite the movie's success and its now-iconic status in the world of fashion and cinema, Tucci surprisingly faced a difficult period in his career afterward. In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Tucci opened up about his struggles to secure roles, revealing a surprising dry spell following the film's release.
Released on June 30, 2006, The Devil Wears Prada not only showcased the exceptional talents of Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, and Emily Blunt, but also cemented Tucci's Nigel as a fan favorite. However, Tucci found himself in a career purgatory, admitting that, “I couldn't get a job, and I didn't quite understand that.” This left him taking roles in films like Blind Date and Swing Vote, projects that he later confessed weren't his ideal choices.
By 2009, Tucci's career saw a resurgence with critically acclaimed roles in The Lovely Bones and Julie & Julia, showing his versatility and resilience as an actor. But it wasn't just fluctuating industry trends that affected his career trajectory. Tucci's battle with cancer six years ago also forced him to step back and recalibrate his priorities. Reflecting on his journey, he noted, “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.”
Speculation continues to swirl about a Devil Wears Prada sequel, with Tucci teasing that a follow-up might be in the works. While he remains tight-lipped, fans remain hopeful that Nigel will make a stylish return. The potential sequel, rumored to start production on November 30, could see the original cast reunite to explore the decline of traditional print magazines, bringing a fresh perspective to the beloved story.
Tucci's story is a reminder that even seasoned actors face career challenges, but resilience and passion can help overcome obstacles. As Tucci himself proves, even when Hollywood seems to close its doors, there's always a way back in.
It's surprising to learn that an actor as talented as Stanley Tucci struggled to find roles after a highly acclaimed film like The Devil Wears Prada. His candidness about the ups and downs of his career and his personal battles adds depth to his story, making his journey back to stardom even more inspiring. Tucci's experience reflects the unpredictable nature of Hollywood, where even remarkable performances can sometimes be overlooked.
What are your thoughts on the potential Devil Wears Prada sequel, and which character would you most like to see return?
