No Nate This Time: ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ director explains Adrian Grenier’s absence

Los Angeles: Director David Frankel has revealed that he had planned a surprise cameo for Adrian Grenier in The Devil Wears Prada 2, but the idea couldn’t be executed due to timing constraints.

Speaking to Deadline, Frankel shared that he had considered “sneaking” Grenier’s character Nate into the sequel. However, the production schedule didn’t allow enough time to make it happen. While he didn’t disclose how the cameo would have fit into the storyline, he acknowledged fans’ continued interest in the character.

The sequel reunites key cast members including Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci, bringing back their iconic roles from the original film.

Frankel also praised Grenier for his recent self-aware and humorous appearance in a Starbucks commercial, calling it “funny and self-effacing” and appreciating the actor’s humility.

Over the years, Nate’s character has drawn criticism from fans, particularly on social media, for his behavior in his relationship with Andy. In the original film, their relationship faced strain as Andy pursued her demanding fashion career, leaving their status unresolved.

Earlier, Grenier himself admitted he was disappointed not to be part of the sequel but understood the possible reasons, including the mixed fan response to his character. He even hinted that the situation could open the door for a potential spin-off.

Set to release on May 1, The Devil Wears Prada 2 follows Andy’s return to Runway magazine two decades after her dramatic exit in Paris. As the publication struggles to adapt to a changing media landscape, Miranda Priestley must once again rely on familiar allies—including Emily Charlton, now a powerful figure in the luxury fashion world—to help save the brand.

With inputs from IANS