Meryl Streep’s “Devil Wears Prada” Nemesis Szostak Plastered Her Bathroom With Screen Legend’s Photos for Very Creative Reason (Exclusive)

Meryl Streep’s Iconic ‘Devil Wears Prada’ Rival Stephanie Szostak’s Creative Inspiration

Stephanie Szostak, known for her role as the rival editor Jacqueline Follet to Meryl Streep’s Miranda Priestly in “The Devil Wears Prada,” recently shared a unique approach she took to prepare for acting alongside the legendary Meryl Streep. Szostak, in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE ahead of the release of her new film “Soul on Fire,” revealed her tactic of plastering her bathroom walls with photos of Streep to overcome any feelings of intimidation.

Explaining her unconventional preparation method, Szostak, who hails from France and delved into acting in her late 20s, disclosed that she wanted to ensure she was fully immersed in the presence of Streep. The role in “The Devil Wears Prada” marked her first in a studio film, and Szostak wanted to feel comfortable and acquainted with Streep before stepping on set.

Szostak, now 50, reflected, “When I got the job, I was like, ‘Oh, I gotta play opposite Meryl Streep, so I can’t be intimidated when we get on set,’ ” She continued, “And so I plastered my bathroom with pictures of Meryl Streep.” Every morning, she greeted Streep’s photos, creating a sense of familiarity that helped boost her confidence during filming.

In her interactions with Streep on set, Szostak was struck by Streep’s kindness and professionalism. She recalled a particular scene set in a Paris café where Streep sought her opinion on the setting’s authenticity. Despite Szostak’s role not being a major one, Streep’s inclusive and collaborative approach left a lasting impression on her.

Reflecting on the unexpected success and cultural impact of “The Devil Wears Prada,” Szostak shared her experience of feeling a strong connection to the world portrayed in the film. Having worked at Chanel before transitioning into acting, Szostak felt a sense of familiarity with the luxurious and glamorous setting of the movie, which resonated with her personal experiences.

Aside from her iconic role in “The Devil Wears Prada,” Szostak is now gearing up for her latest project, “Soul on Fire,” where she portrays the mother of burn victim John O’Leary. Sharing her journey of coming across O’Leary’s inspirational story through her husband, Szostak emphasized the responsibility she felt in portraying real-life events sensitively and authentically on screen.

“Soul on Fire” promises to be a heartfelt and moving portrayal of resilience and hope, echoing the real-life journey of John O’Leary. Szostak’s dedication to her craft and her commitment to honouring the stories she portrays underscore her versatility and depth as an actress.

As the legacy of “The Devil Wears Prada” continues to captivate audiences, the behind-the-scenes insights shared by Stephanie Szostak offer a glimpse into the dedication and passion that go into creating memorable on-screen moments. Her creative approach to preparation and her admiration for acting alongside Meryl Streep highlight the importance of collaboration and mutual respect in the industry.