30 April,2026 07:56 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Meryl Streep and Anna Wintour (Instagram)
A surprising real-life connection between Meryl Streep and Anna Wintour has come to light just ahead of the release of The Devil Wears Prada 2, adding an unexpected twist to their long-standing association. The two iconic figures one from Hollywood and the other from the fashion world have been revealed to be distant relatives.
According to recent genealogical research, Streep and Wintour are sixth cousins, sharing common ancestors dating back several generations. The study traced their lineage to the same fifth-great-grandparents, Thomas Smith and Elizabeth Kinsey, who lived in Pennsylvania centuries ago. This discovery has fascinated fans, especially given the cultural link already connecting the two women through cinema.
Streep famously portrayed the formidable Miranda Priestly in the original The Devil Wears Prada, a character widely believed to be inspired by Wintour's persona as the powerful editor-in-chief of Vogue. Over the years, comparisons between the fictional character and the real-life fashion icon have been constant, with many noting similarities in their commanding presence, sharp decision-making, and influence in their respective industries.
The revelation that they are actually related has only deepened public intrigue. What was once seen as a creative interpretation now appears to carry an ironic real-life connection, blurring the line between fiction and reality. The timing of this discovery just before the sequel's release has further amplified interest, making it a widely discussed topic among fans and media alike.
Despite their distant familial tie, Streep and Wintour were born and raised in very different environments. Streep hails from New Jersey in the United States, while Wintour was born in London, England, and built her career in global fashion publishing. Their family lines diverged generations ago, eventually leading them to excel in entirely different fields.
Over time, Wintour's stance on the film has evolved. While she was initially cautious about its portrayal of the fashion industry, she later acknowledged the film's entertainment value and praised Streep's performance. The two have since shared a cordial relationship, even appearing together for interviews and public events.
As The Devil Wears Prada 2 gears up for release, this newly uncovered family link adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already highly anticipated film. It serves as a reminder of how interconnected stories can be sometimes in ways no one could have predicted bringing together fashion, film, and family history in a truly unexpected way.
