Maya Kensington
The undeniable fact is that no one can replicate the unique talent of Meryl Streep. Channeling her iconic character, Miranda Priestly, from the original Devil Wears Prada, Meryl presented a formidable ultimatum to the creative team: either double her salary or she would walk away from the project. This bold move showcased her profound understanding of her own worth. Surprisingly, Meryl chose to keep this detail under wraps until two decades later, during the promotional campaign for The Devil Wears Prada 2, alongside her co-stars Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci.
During an April 2026 interview with Today co-host Jenna Bush Hager, who also made a cameo in the sequel, Meryl revealed, “I knew it was going to be a hit.” She elaborated on her confidence in the project, mentioning, “I read the script, and it was great. They called me up with an offer, and I said ‘No. I’m not going to do it.’ … I wanted to see if I doubled my ask, and they went right away and said, ‘Sure.’” This statement emphasizes her strategic approach to negotiations and her clarity about her value in the film industry.
Reflecting on her career at the age of 56, the talented actress, known for her role in Only Murders in the Building, remarked, “It took me this long to understand that I could do that! I was sure of it. I was confident it would be a hit. They needed me, and I wanted it, but if they didn’t want to meet my terms, I was okay with that. Because I’m older now. I’m 56, and I was ready to retire.” Her words convey not only her self-assurance but also her willingness to stand firm in her expectations, a testament to her experience in Hollywood.
So, how much did Meryl actually earn from the original film? More crucially, what was the financial incentive offered by 20th Century Studios for her return in the sequel? Let’s delve into what information is available regarding her earnings.
What Is Meryl Streep’s Estimated Net Worth in 2026?
As of 2026, Meryl Streep boasts an impressive net worth estimated at around 0 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. Her enduring success in the film industry, alongside her diverse roles, has solidified her position as one of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood.
What Was Meryl Streep’s Salary for the Original Devil Wears Prada Film?
While the exact figure for Meryl’s earnings from the first Devil Wears Prada film remains somewhat ambiguous, multiple sources have reported that her salary was approximately $4 million. This sum underscores not only her star power but also the significant financial backing that major studios are willing to invest in established talent.
What Is Meryl Streep’s Compensation for Devil Wears Prada 2?
At the time of this publication, the specific details regarding Meryl’s salary for Devil Wears Prada 2 have not been disclosed. However, industry analysts predict that the film is likely to generate millions in revenue globally, reflecting both its anticipated popularity and Meryl’s pivotal role in its success.
During the April 2026 interview with Today, Meryl acknowledged that discussions about a sequel had been ongoing for several years, highlighting the film’s enduring legacy and the continued interest in revisiting the characters and storyline.
“They started talking about a sequel, but we all waited until we had that good idea,” she stated. This insight into the creative process reveals the careful consideration that goes into developing a sequel, ensuring that it meets the high expectations set by the original film.
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