Adrian Grenier Expresses Disappointment Over Exclusion from 'Devil Wears Prada' Sequel, Cites Character Backlash

Adrian Grenier, who portrayed Nate in the critically acclaimed film 'The Devil Wears Prada,' recently voiced his feelings of being overlooked for the forthcoming sequel. The actor suggested that the negative audience reception to his character, Nate, might be a factor in his non-return. Despite this, Grenier maintains a positive outlook, envisioning a potential future spin-off film focusing on Nate.

Adrian Grenier's Candid Thoughts on His Absence from 'The Devil Wears Prada 2'

On March 13, 2026, Adrian Grenier, the actor recognized for his portrayal of Nate, the boyfriend of Anne Hathaway's character Andy in the original 'The Devil Wears Prada,' openly discussed his disappointment with Page Six. Grenier expressed regret about not being invited back for David Frankel's highly anticipated sequel, 'The Devil Wears Prada 2,' which is scheduled for cinematic release on May 1 by 20th Century Studios. Several original cast members, including Meryl Streep as Miranda Priestly, Emily Blunt as Emily Charlton, and Stanley Tucci as Nigel Kipling, are set to reprise their roles. Grenier candidly speculated that the widespread negative feedback from fans regarding Nate's character might be the reason for his exclusion. He playfully suggested, when asked if he believed this was genuinely the cause, “As opposed to what?” Grenier, however, added a hopeful note, suggesting that his absence could pave the way for an intriguing spin-off centered on Nate. This sentiment echoes his 2021 interview with Entertainment Weekly, where he admitted initial surprise at the fan backlash against Nate but later understood the criticism, attributing his past inability to see the character's flaws to his own immaturity at the time.

Grenier's reflections highlight the evolving nature of audience engagement with film characters, particularly in the age of social media where public opinion can significantly influence creative decisions. His candor offers valuable insight into the actor's perspective on fan feedback and its potential impact on a franchise's direction. While his absence from the sequel is a missed opportunity for many, it sparks intriguing possibilities for character development within the broader 'Devil Wears Prada' universe.