Adrian Grenier, the actor famed for his role as Nate in the beloved film *The Devil Wears Prada*, recently opened up about the polarising nature of his character over 17 years after the film’s release. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Grenier shared insights on why he believes Nate does not deserve the backlash he often receives from audiences.
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Reflecting on Nate’s character, Grenier remarked, “I can understand the sentiment, but I have to stand for my character.” He noted that he has revisited the film numerous times and feels that both Nate and Anne Hathaway’s character, Andy Sachs, were earnestly striving to excel in their respective careers. Their relationship encounters turmoil when Andy, busy with her role as assistant to the formidable Miranda Priestly, is unable to attend a birthday dinner for Nate.
The actor explained that viewers might misconstrue Nate’s reaction to Andy’s absence, suggesting that the importance he places on commitments may be lost on those who prioritise birthdays differently. “If someone makes a commitment, I do take it seriously,” he clarified, implying that Nate’s response stemmed from a deeper concern for upholding agreements rather than a trivial obsession with birthday celebrations.
Grenier also reflected on Nate’s emotional responses throughout the film. “I did think that his reaction felt a little bit meek and weak, which was not attractive,” he admitted. He acknowledged that Nate showcased a level of immaturity that made his coping mechanisms less than admirable, indicating that the character could have benefitted from “clarity and strength” in representing his emotions more effectively.
Striking a balance, Grenier expressed an understanding of both characters’ perspectives. He conveyed a desire to see Nate’s narrative evolve, manifesting in a potential spin-off, despite Nate’s absence from the eagerly anticipated sequel, *The Devil Wears Prada 2*. “I do think it would be fun to see if Nate is actually the devil in *The Devil Wears Prada*,” he jested, expressing interest in exploring what his character’s journey might look like beyond the events of the original film.
In addition to reflecting on his iconic role, Grenier is promoting his latest film, *Self Custody*, which showcases a different facet of his artistic career. Co-starring with Odette Annable and Henry Cejudo and directed by Garrett Patten, the film is currently available for streaming on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Tubi, and Plex.
The conversation surrounding Nate’s character demonstrates the enduring legacy of *The Devil Wears Prada* and its ability to ignite debates on relationships and personal aspirations even after many years. Grenier’s reflections provide a thought-provoking look at the complexities within the film’s narrative and the ongoing discussion of character morality in cinema.
As Grenier continues to reflect on his time in one of Hollywood’s most memorable films, he invites fans to reconsider their perceptions of Nate, encouraging a deeper understanding of character motivations and the realities of navigating success in a demanding world. With his future in film looking bright, the actor remains optimistic about exploring new roles that resonate with contemporary audiences.