Simone Ashley: From Bridgerton to The Devil Wears Prada 2 - Embracing Versatility and Confidence
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 sequel to The Devil Wears Prada. She shares that working on The Devil Wears Prada 2 alongside Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway was a career highlight, describing it as a masterclass experience. Despite her previous success as Kate in Bridgerton, Ashley is eager for viewers to witness her portrayal of Amari in the sequel, emphasizing the character's confidence and poise as a departure from the original Emily's anxiety-driven comedy.
Ashley reflects on her journey into acting, starting with a background in music and transitioning to film and TV. She discusses her experience working closely with Meryl Streep, highlighting the lessons she learned from the iconic actress on set. Stepping into the shoes of Amari, Ashley felt pressure initially but embraced the opportunity to bring a fresh perspective to the character, distinct from Emily Blunt's role in the first film. She also shares insights into her dynamic with co-star Caleb Hearon, praising his thoughtful approach to comedy and their collaborative work on set.
The fashion-forward nature of The Devil Wears Prada 2 allowed Ashley to explore various stylish looks for her character, with Tom Brown and Dolce & Gabbana pieces standing out as favorites. She also mentions her favorite cameo in the film, citing Ciara as a standout performer and a newfound friend. Overall, Ashley expresses gratitude for the experience of working with such an iconic cast on the sequel, highlighting the confidence she gained and the joy she found in the process.
Looking ahead, Ashley reveals her dream of starring in an action or period film, expressing a desire to explore different genres and bring joy to audiences through her work. She also shares her commitment to returning to Bridgerton and her openness to reprising her role in F1: The Movie if given the opportunity. As an advocate for South Asian representation in the industry, Ashley emphasizes the importance of diverse storytelling and behind-the-scenes diversity to create authentic and inclusive narratives.
Despite the challenges of filming in public locations with paparazzi and fans present, Ashley credits her growing confidence and professionalism for helping her navigate such distractions and stay focused on her craft. She acknowledges the importance of maintaining a professional mindset in such environments to ensure the success of the production.