Anne Hathaway Set for Triumphant Return with Five Major Films in 2026
A Prolific Year Ahead for Hollywood’s Leading Lady
After a three-year absence from cinema screens, Anne Hathaway is set to be one of the major actresses of 2026, with five feature films scheduled for release. The Academy Award-winning actress has been busy transforming herself for diverse roles that showcase her remarkable range, from pop stars to Greek mythology heroines.
The Devil Wears Prada Returns
Perhaps most anticipated is The Devil Wears Prada 2, scheduled for release on 1 May 2026. Hathaway reprises her iconic role as Andy Sachs alongside Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci. The sequel examines high-fashion magazine editor-in-chief Miranda Priestly’s perspective as she faces the decline of the print industry, bringing the beloved characters back nearly 20 years after the original film became a cultural phenomenon.
Transformative Performance in Mother Mary
Hathaway’s dramatic transformation continues with Mother Mary, directed by David Lowery, where she plays a pop star who abandons her tour due to an existential crisis. Hathaway described the role as the most challenging of her entire career, requiring extensive vocal and dance training. The film arrives in theatres in April 2026, featuring original songs by Jack Antonoff and Charli XCX.
Epic Adventures and Thrillers
The actress’s 2026 slate also includes Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of The Odyssey, where she plays Penelope, the faithful wife of Ulysses. Additionally, she stars in Flowervale Street, where she faces dinosaurs in a film scheduled for 12 August 2026, and the thriller Verity, adapted from Colleen Hoover’s novel, arriving 30 September 2026.
Significance for Cinema and Audiences
Hathaway’s remarkable 2026 lineup demonstrates her continued evolution as one of Hollywood’s most versatile performers. Her willingness to take on physically and emotionally demanding roles, from pop diva to mythological figure, reinforces her position as a leading actress capable of commanding both blockbusters and intimate character studies. For audiences, this means a year filled with diverse performances that promise entertainment across multiple genres, cementing Hathaway’s enduring appeal and artistic commitment nearly three decades into her career.