Tanya Hutchinson, a flight attendant from Los Angeles, has recently made waves by appearing alongside some of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors in the much-anticipated sequel, *The Devil Wears Prada 2*. In a candid conversation with PEOPLE, Hutchinson reflected on her experiences filming the project, her role, and her valuable travel advice for passengers.
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In *The Devil Wears Prada 2*, Hutchinson embodies a flight attendant who delivers the challenging news to Meryl Streep’s character, the formidable Miranda Priestly, that champagne is not available in economy class. This amusing scenario mirrors real-life encounters shared by flight attendants, as Hutchinson noted that passengers frequently make similar demands. “I often want to say, ‘This is an airplane, not a restaurant,’” she remarked, highlighting one of the comedic challenges faced in her day job.
Hutchinson’s journey to acting began when United Airlines announced auditions for an in-flight safety video. On what became a memorable birthday for her, Hutchinson received the call that she would not only be involved in the safety video but would also star in a Disney film. “I was thrilled beyond belief,” she recounted, though she candidly admitted to being unaware of the magnitude of the project ahead of her.
Despite the excitement, Hutchinson had to remain tight-lipped due to a non-disclosure agreement, which made it difficult to share her good news with family and friends. However, her time on set proved to be enlightening. Hutchinson shared that being in the presence of renowned actors was both exhilarating and intimidating. “You realise they are regular people just like us, but there’s something iconic about them that makes your heart pound,” she explained.
Her background as a flight attendant dates back decades, having temporarily stepped away from the profession to start a family. After raising five children and a decade-long hiatus, Hutchinson made her return to the skies with United Airlines. “I wanted to find purpose again. United embraced my authenticity, which was inspiring,” she said, reflecting on the airline’s inclusive culture.
During her filming experience, Hutchinson found the prohibition on photography liberating, allowing her to immerse herself fully in the moment. “As a mother, I was always behind the camera, documenting everything. This time, I savoured the experience, and it’s a memory I’ll cherish forever,” she said, beaming with pride about her credits in a major film.
For those looking to enhance their travel experience, Hutchinson has shared several helpful tips. She advised prospective travellers to consider the weight of their luggage before boarding, suggesting that if a bag is too heavy to lift, it should not be taken on board. Hutchinson also emphasised the importance of hydration and recommended that travellers bring their own snacks, such as protein shakes, to keep energised during flights.
Another piece of advice Hutchinson offered lightheartedly was to avoid wearing strong perfumes on planes. “A good bath will do wonders, and it respects the comfort of those around you,” she laughed, referring to the discomfort caused by overly fragrant colognes that can linger throughout the cabin.
Through her role as a flight attendant, Hutchinson has enjoyed the unique opportunity to explore various destinations around the world. She reminisced about a recent trip to Hong Kong and an unforgettable visit to London during the arrival of Harry and Meghan’s baby, which even landed her a spot on BBC News. “It’s experiences like these that make my job so fulfilling,” she said.
Ultimately, Hutchinson expressed that her favourite aspect of travelling isn’t just the destinations, but the people she meets along the way. “The connections with passengers add tremendous value to my role. Being on an airplane is akin to welcoming guests into my home, providing them comfort, and engaging in meaningful conversations,” she concluded.
As she blends her dual career in the skies with newfound stardom, Tanya Hutchinson’s journey is a reminder of the unexpected paths life can take, connecting the everyday experiences of a flight attendant with the glamour of the film industry. With a bright future ahead and tales to tell, Hutchinson continues to inspire those around her both in her profession and on screen.