Ahead of ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ release, let’s revisit Meryl Streep’s other iconic characters

As anticipation builds for ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ and Meryl Streep’s return as Miranda Priestly, now is the perfect time to revisit the legendary roles that made her the greatest actress of her generation. As an ice-cold fashion mogul, a free-spirited Greek island mom, each of the characters represents another hue of her genius. These are the legendary Streep performances that one should watch prior to the release of the sequel.

As the formidable editor-in-chief of ‘Runway’ magazine, Miranda Priestly rules the fashion world with quiet authority and razor-sharp expectations. Streep plays the character with icy composure, turning even the smallest command into a moment of tension. The story follows a young journalist navigating the ruthless world of high fashion while working under Miranda’s demanding leadership. Fans of sharp, character-driven dramas can catch it on JioHotstar and Amazon Prime Video.

Donna Sheridan is a lively and independent single mother who runs a small hotel on a picturesque Greek island. Streep adds warmth and comedy to the role when she reunites with three of her former lovers as she prepares to go to the wedding of her daughter. The musical is set against the backdrop of classic ABBA songs, as it deals with friendship, love, and twists of fate. In case you like feel-good musicals, it can be found on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.

Streep also plays a role as a former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in this political play, where she embodies the willpower that made her one of the most influential politicians of the 20 th century. The Iron Lady is a documentary that gives an insight into how Thatcher rose to power in British politics and the struggles she had to endure during her reign. The sacrifice behind her historic career is also reflected through flashbacks and personal moments as the story is recounted. On Amazon Prime Video, it can be found by political drama lovers.

Sophie Zawistowski is a Polish immigrant living in postwar Brooklyn while carrying the deep scars of her past. Streep’s performance reveals the character’s emotional struggle as memories from World War II slowly resurface. ‘Sophie’s Choice’ gradually uncovers the tragic decision Sophie was forced to make during the Holocaust, making it one of the most haunting stories in cinema. Those drawn to powerful, emotionally heavy dramas can rent it on Apple TV and Amazon Video.

In this biographical drama, Streep plays the legendary chef Julia Child, who made the American kitchens change forever by her passion in French cooking. Julie & Julia switches between the story of Child who is exploring the world of culinary art in Paris and a blogger of nowadays who is encouraged to cook with the help of her cookbook. The vibrant portrayal by Streep reflects the infectious joy and will to pursue her passion in Julia. Provided that you are fond of biographical comedies, you can find it on Hulu.

Kay Graham, the publisher of The Washington Post, finds herself in the middle of a big political event as the newspaper is given the Pentagon Papers. Streep introduces the viewers to Graham as a leader who learns to trust her instincts and manages to overcome the strong pressure by government. The Post features the bravery that was exercised to protect press freedom in one of the landmark events in American journalism. Those who like the real-life political thrillers will find it on Amazon Prime Video.