Considering her years of experience in Hollywood, Emily Blunt has shared the screen with several renowned icons and delivered some of her most riveting performances. However, there was a time when even Blunt was a newcomer in the industry and struggled with confidence while sharing the screen with veteran icons.
Thus, reflecting on her initial years in Hollywood, Emily Blunt recalled a memorable experience with Meryl Streep in The Devil Wears Prada. After collaborating, as Streep shared her true feelings about Blunt’s acting skills, even the Oppenheimer star mentioned how the legendary actress guided her through the process and helped restore her confidence.
Emily Blunt is Grateful for Meryl Streep’s Mentorship
Reflecting on her career, Emily Blunt recalled her 2006 movie The Devil Wears Prada, where she shared the screen with the likes of Meryl Streep. Playing the role of Emily Charlton, the assistant to Meryl Streep’s iconic Miranda Priestly, Blunt recalled the challenges and rewards of working on the project.
Being a relative newcomer at the time, Emily Blunt admitted to being very nervous about the film, and about sharing the screen with one of her favorite actors. Appearing on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Blunt remembered initially feeling intimidated by Meryl Streep’s presence, but gradually overcoming her nervousness with the actress’ help and guidance.
The table read was hell. Meryl Streep was there. I was 22, it was really scary. I just remember that sweaty-palmed feeling of turning the pages and knowing my first line was coming up, you know. I don’t think Meryl had even entered the movie at that point. I was just terrified.
And then I remember I said my first line, which I think was ‘Human resources certainly have an odd sense of humor.’ And I remember Meryl going, [chuckles]. And I was so grateful. It was just this little chortle she gave, and it was just really reassuring.
Emily Blunt fondly recalled Meryl Streep’s guidance and support during filming, stating that her guidance restored her confidence and even helped her deliver a memorable performance in the movie. Blunt later reflected on the lasting impact of her experience on The Devil Wears Prada, citing the enduring power of Streep’s mentorship.
Meryl Streep Held Emily Blunt in High Regards
After Emily Blunt spoke highly of her experience working with Meryl Streep on the set of The Devil Wears Prada, even the veteran star reflected upon Blunt’s capabilities as an actress. According to Contact Music, Streep had a lot of high praise for her co-star, which eventually left Blunt gushing over the compliments.
[Blunt is the] best young actress I’ve worked with in some time, perhaps ever.
Learning about Meryl Streep’s compliments for her, Emily Blunt felt validated by the actress’ recognition of her talent. Since such encouragement from popular stars towards newcomers can be rare in the competitive acting industry, Blunt revealed the rush of emotions she felt after reading about Streep’s praises.
I still die [over that compliment]. It was a little bit mind-blowing. I think my hair blew back, actually, when I read it. You do a little dance and then you realize you’ve got to try and live up to it.
Eventually, Meryl Streep’s compliments and support while filming had a lasting impact on Emily Blunt, which inspired her to continue striving for excellence in her craft. Blunt earned recognition for her role in The Devil Wears Prada and went on to win the Oscar nod for her performance in Oppenheimer.
The Devil Wears Prada is available on Netflix.
