Simone Ashley’s Rising Star: From Bridgerton to The Devil Wears Prada 2

Introduction: A Rising Force in Hollywood

Simone Ashley, the English actress known for her roles in Netflix’s Bridgerton and Sex Education, has become one of the most sought-after talents in the entertainment industry. With her captivating performances and commitment to authentic representation, Ashley continues to break boundaries and redefine what it means to be a leading lady in contemporary cinema. As 2026 unfolds, the actress finds herself at the centre of major Hollywood productions, making her journey particularly relevant for audiences seeking diverse and compelling storytelling.

Major Career Developments

Ashley has joined the cast of 20th Century Studios’ The Devil Wears Prada 2 opposite core members Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci and new addition Kenneth Branagh. Cameras are rolling on the sequel, marking a significant milestone in the actress’s career. The sequel follows Streep’s fashion editor facing the decline of the print industry, whilst Emily Blunt’s character is now a big-time executive in fashion circles, and the two compete for ad revenue.

Beyond her fashion industry role, Ashley says she will always make time to go back to Bridgerton, which is expected to return in 2026. Additionally, Ashley fulfilled her own wish in Picture This, a new Amazon-backed rom-com that topped the streaming charts during its opening weekend on Prime Video. With music producer Fraser T. Smith, Ashley has been quietly working on her debut album for around a year, showcasing her versatility as an artist.

Navigating Challenges and Representation

Since rising to global fame three years ago as Kathani “Kate” Bridgerton opposite Jonathan Bailey’s viscount Anthony, Ashley has carved out her own niche in Hollywood as the kind of South Asian representation her younger self longed for. However, the journey hasn’t been without obstacles. News broke that Ashley had been largely edited out of the Joseph Kosinski-directed F1 film, appearing briefly onscreen but with no spoken dialogue in F1’s theatrical cut, highlighting the ongoing challenges actors of colour can face in major productions.

Conclusion: A Star on the Ascent

Simone Ashley’s trajectory demonstrates both the progress and persistent challenges within the entertainment industry. Her casting in The Devil Wears Prada 2 represents a significant achievement, placing her alongside Hollywood’s most established names. For audiences, Ashley’s continued success signals a positive shift towards more inclusive storytelling. As she balances blockbuster franchises, independent projects, and creative pursuits like music, Ashley emerges as a multifaceted talent whose influence extends beyond the screen, inspiring a new generation of performers and fans alike.