Summer 2026 hasn’t even properly kicked off yet, but one film is already setting the tone. The Devil Wears Prada 2 is tracking for a strong $66 million+ opening weekend, and the early numbers suggest this could be one of the season’s most reliable crowd-pullers.
Strong Start Even Before Release
The sequel — backed by 20th Century Studios — has only just entered early tracking, but the signals are already loud. Advance ticket sales, which opened on March 12, are reportedly performing at double the pace of comparable titles like Wuthering Heights.
That kind of early momentum usually points in one direction: high audience curiosity combined with strong nostalgia pull. The original film built a loyal fanbase over the years, and this sequel is clearly cashing in on that goodwill.
Women-Led Audience Driving The Buzz
Just like the first film, Devil Wears Prada 2 is leaning heavily on female audiences — and that’s working in its favour. Interest among women, especially those above 25, is tracking extremely strong.
What’s interesting, though, is that male interest isn’t lagging as much as expected. Compared to recent female-skewing hits like Barbie and It Ends With Us, the engagement from male viewers is holding up surprisingly well. That gives the film a wider reach than typical fashion-driven dramas.
Timing Could Push It Even Higher
The release strategy looks smart. After its opening weekend, the film rolls straight into the Mother’s Day frame — traditionally a strong window for emotionally-driven or relationship-focused films.
That second-week boost could help the movie sustain momentum, especially with repeat viewings and group audiences.
Going Up Against Big Franchise Giants
Of course, the road isn’t completely clear. The film will share space with heavy-hitters like Mortal Kombat II and The Mandalorian & Grogu.
But instead of clashing directly, Devil Wears Prada 2 is playing a different game. It offers counterprogramming — a stylish, character-driven alternative to action-heavy blockbusters. That contrast could actually work in its favour, pulling in audiences looking for something lighter yet engaging.
The Bigger Picture
If these early trends hold, Devil Wears Prada 2 isn’t just opening strong — it’s positioning itself as one of the summer’s most dependable performers.
The mix of nostalgia, smart release timing, and a clearly defined audience base gives it a solid advantage. And if word-of-mouth clicks, this could easily go beyond just a good opening and turn into a long-running box office success.
