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Carson Kressley, known for his role in Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, shared that he competed with Stanley Tucci for the part of Nigel in the 2006 film The Devil Wears Prada. This casting decision occurred during the height of Queer Eye’s original popularity, marking a pivotal moment in Kressley’s career as he sought to expand into scripted acting.
The Stanley Tucci film role ultimately went to Tucci, a decision that Kressley recalled with a mix of humor and reflection during an interview on the Today show with Jenna Bush Hager and Sheinelle Jones. Kressley explained that the producers favored someone with more on-screen acting experience, particularly due to the challenging nature of sharing the screen with Meryl Streep.
Behind the Casting of Nigel in The Devil Wears Prada
Directed by David Frankel, The Devil Wears Prada is a comedy-drama that follows Andy Sachs, played by Anne Hathaway, as she navigates her demanding job under the editor-in-chief Miranda Priestly, portrayed by Meryl Streep. Stanley Tucci’s character, Nigel, serves as Runway magazine’s art director, a role that became memorable for Tucci’s sharp portrayal.
Kressley recounted the casting process, describing it as competitive yet respectful. Although the casting team appreciated his presence, they hesitated to take a chance on someone without previous film experience for such a high-profile scene.
“They said, ‘Oh God, you’re great, we love you, but we can’t have somebody who’s never been in a movie in the scene with Meryl Streep. That might be too big of a gamble.’ So I didn’t get it,”
Kressley said, adding with a smile, “Damn you, Stanley Tucci!”
During the interview, co-host Jenna Bush Hager noted that Stanley Tucci was scheduled to appear on the show the following day. Kressley jokingly addressed Tucci, saying, “Thanks for ruining my career!” But he quickly clarified his admiration:
No, he is amazing, and he was so great in it,
Carson Kressley said.
I love all his cooking shows, going to Italy. In my research about Stanley Tucci, which I was making my voodoo doll — I mean, when I was just researching — I found out we have the same birthday, we’re both November 11. So there will be a time when I do something with Stanley.
Upcoming Sequel Brings Back Key Cast Members
Stanley Tucci is set to reprise his role as Nigel in the upcoming sequel to The Devil Wears Prada, scheduled for release in May. The highly anticipated film will once again star Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, and Emily Blunt, alongside new additions Simone Ashley, Justin Theroux, B.J. Novak, and Lucy Liu. The story is expected to focus on Miranda Priestly’s struggle against her former assistant turned rival, Emily Charlton, as they compete for advertising revenue during the decline of print media.
Carson Kressley’s Career Beyond Queer Eye
Following his time on Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, Carson Kressley continued to establish himself as a television personality and fashion expert. His career includes hosting “How to Look Good Naked” and serving as a judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race since 2015. Kressley’s candid reflection on missing out on the Stanley Tucci film role reveals his ongoing admiration for Tucci’s craft and the unpredictable nature of casting in Hollywood.