One of the most anticipated films of 2026 is a highly-anticipated sequel that brings back two iconic stars, Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway. They reprise their roles as Miranda Priestly, the feared editor-in-chief of Runway magazine, and Andy Sachs, her former assistant. The original film, The Devil Wears Prada, was a cultural phenomenon in the early 2000s, blending comedy and drama while exploring themes of ambition, friendship, and workplace culture within the high-stakes world of fashion.
Based on Lauren Weisberger’s 2003 novel, which drew from her own experiences working for Anna Wintour at Vogue, the film also featured Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci in memorable supporting roles. All four actors are returning for The Devil Wears Prada 2, set to release next month. This sequel offers fans a chance to see where their characters have been over the past two decades, navigating an evolving media landscape.
However, one character who will not be making an appearance is Adrian Grenier, who played Nate, Andy’s ex-boyfriend and a chef. In the first film, Nate breaks up with Andy after feeling she has become too much like the shallow women in the industry she once criticized. His actions have sparked debate among fans, with some questioning whether he was the real villain of the story.
As the release of The Devil Wears Prada 2 approaches, fans are revisiting the question of whether Nate was truly the antagonist. Readers shared their opinions, with many agreeing that he was the true villain.
Jimmyly Fernandes said, “Yes, next question.” Subarno Raquib added, “Definitely, he was the real villain.” Christopher White noted, “Yes! Her friends too!” referencing how Andy’s other friends grew frustrated with her focus on work.
Cassie Crawford argued that Nate’s behavior towards his girlfriend was “gaslighting,” while Feathers McGraw pointed out that he was “selfish” and failed to provide emotional support during a difficult time. Adamah Matau went further, suggesting that Nate tried to keep Andy down.
“Nate was and always will be the villain,” one reader wrote. Another explained, “As she was growing within herself, instead of sticking to the old rules, Nate began to pout, belittled what she did, and instead of being happy for her in her advancement at work, he questioned it. Sorry, Nate was and will always be the villain.”
Adrian Grenier recently defended his character, stating that he can “understand the sentiment” against Nate but feels he must stand by his role. He told People Magazine that both Nate and Andy were “working really hard to make it in their careers.” Grenier suggested that Nate’s reaction to Andy’s success came down to whether someone cares about birthdays, as she missed his.
“I don’t look to a birthday as a big, meaningful thing, but agreements, I do. If someone makes a commitment, I do take it seriously that the commitment gets upheld,” Grenier said. However, he admitted that Nate’s reaction felt “meek and weak,” and he suggested that Nate needed to “man up” and act with more clarity and strength.
In a recent Starbucks commercial, Grenier joked about Nate’s controversial status and his absence from the sequel. “A toast to Nate! He made a mean sandwich, he loved his girlfriend – to a point… Okay, so he wasn’t perfect. So, let’s leave Nate in 2006 and keep this good energy going,” he said.
Fans had mixed reactions, with some defending Nate. Mau wrote, “He deserves a second chance,” while Eva insisted, “He wasn’t the villain, he was right all along.” Rebecca Reeder joked, “What movie was everyone watching? ANDY was the villain!”
This ongoing debate has led to a poll asking whether Nate is the villain of the film. While many believe he is, others argue that no one in the film is entirely innocent. Miranda Priestly and the charming but manipulative Christian also play significant roles in the story.
Grenier confirmed that he wasn’t invited back for the sequel, though he remains open to revisiting the character. As for Nate, fans seem to agree that he and Andy were never meant to be. It’s easy to imagine him happy in Boston, making grilled cheeses, while Andy continues her life in New York City.
The Devil Wears Prada 2 is set to hit cinemas on Friday, May 2. The original film is currently streaming on Disney Plus.
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