“Journalism still really matters.”
By Shannon Connellan on May 1, 2026.
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You’ve likely noticed that journalism has transformed in the 20 years since *The Devil Wears Prada* turned the profession into a pop-cultural moment. Inspired by Lauren Weisberger’s novel, this iconic satire, along with *Ugly Betty*, *The Bold Type*, and *How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days*, inspired a generation of early-internet journalists.
Now, online metrics keep editors up at night, with virality being crucial in editorial meetings, higher-ups insisting on “gaining online traction,” and AI overviews and chatbots being a pervasive thorn. Legacy media has transformed with the internet, notably fashion journalism. Chloe Malle now leads *Vogue’s* editorial content, and the Met Gala is an internet moment and an in-person event.
In 2026, *The Devil Wears Prada 2* arrives, still committed to old-school media ethics, taking on tech bros who value profit over authenticity.
Director David Frankel and writer Aline Brosh McKenna showcase the media landscape, whether revered or dismissed. Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep) remains the formidable editor-in-chief at *Runway* magazine. Owned by Elias-Clark Publications, *Runway* now has a social media and video strategy, with Miranda potentially becoming a “global head of content,” much like Wintour’s path at Condé Nast.
Meanwhile, Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway) is winning awards at investigative outlet *Vanguard* and declaring “journalism still really matters” in viral speeches. Miranda and Andy highlight the challenges of balancing “pieces with gravitas” and corporate demands, as well as the difficulty in valuing a publisher’s authentic voice. As Andy says, “They keep sucking the soul out of everything and repackaging it.”
To keep Miranda and Andy in esteemed company, there’s a wave of cameos from renowned editors, journalists, and authors.
However, Emily (Emily Blunt), a chic ex-*Runway* employee now in high-fashion retail, sarcastically notes the changing times.
*The Devil Wears Prada 2* satirizes specific media issues, lamenting excessive spending and mirroring recent newsroom layoffs. The film shows the challenge of maintaining editorial integrity in today’s industry. That job “thousands of girls would kill for?” It’s changed.
*The Devil Wears Prada 2* hits cinemas May 1.