Simone Ashley: Embracing Versatility in The Devil Wears Prada 2 and Beyond
Actress Simone Ashley, known for her breakout role in 'Bridgerton,' is excited for audiences to see her versatility beyond being labeled as the "new Emily" in the upcoming sequel to The Devil Wears Prada. She shares that working on the film alongside acclaimed actors like Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway was a dream come true and a learning experience. Ashley portrays the character of Amari, who brings a different energy compared to Emily in the original movie, showcasing confidence and elegance in her performance.
Ashley reflects on her journey as an actor, starting with a background in music and transitioning to film and TV. She expresses her passion for storytelling and how it has shaped her career. Working closely with Meryl Streep on The Devil Wears Prada 2 was a masterclass for Ashley, who admired Streep's dedication to her craft and kindness on set. She found inspiration in Streep's attention to detail and approach to her character, incorporating some of those elements into her own performance as Amari.
Stepping into the shoes of a character like Amari, who is essentially the new version of Emily Blunt's character from the first film, brought initial pressure for Ashley. However, the film's creators encouraged her to make the role her own and bring a fresh perspective to the character. Amari's confidence and poise provided a new dynamic for Ashley to explore, allowing the comedy to stem from a place of sassiness and chicness. Working with co-star Caleb Hearon, who plays the new second assistant, added a comedic element to the set, with their interactions creating a playful dynamic.
The fashion-forward nature of The Devil Wears Prada 2 allowed Ashley to experiment with different looks for her character, Amari. She particularly enjoyed wearing Tom Brown designs and Dolce & Gabbana pieces, appreciating the attention to detail from the costume department. The film also features several cameos, with Ciara standing out as Ashley's favorite due to their friendship that developed off-screen. Overall, Ashley describes her experience working with the iconic cast on the sequel as a fun and rewarding opportunity that boosted her confidence as an actor.
Looking ahead, Ashley shares her aspirations for future roles, expressing interest in genres like action, period pieces, and musicals. She remains committed to her role in Bridgerton and is open to returning for future seasons. Despite her role being cut from F1: The Movie, Ashley fondly recalls her time working on the film and would eagerly return for a potential sequel. As an advocate for South Asian representation in the industry, Ashley emphasizes the importance of diverse storytelling and hopes to inspire positive change behind the scenes.
Navigating the chaos of filming on location in New York City for The Devil Wears Prada 2, Ashley acknowledges the distractions posed by paparazzi and fans but emphasizes the need to stay focused and professional. Her growing confidence and experience have enabled her to block out external noise and prioritize delivering her best performance. Ashley's journey as an actor continues to evolve, with a focus on embracing diverse roles and contributing to a more inclusive and representative entertainment landscape.