Anne Hathaway has spoken candidly about long-standing rumors regarding demanding behavior early in her career, acknowledging she isn’t flawless and admitting to adopting a protective “armor” during her initial years in Hollywood.

Early Career Pressures and a Protective Persona

The actress, now 43, reflected on this period in a recent interview with Vogue Australia, coinciding with the promotion of her upcoming film, The Devil Wears Prada 2. She explained that a genuine fear of vulnerability, particularly as a young woman perceived as “sweet,” led her to present a hardened exterior.

Hathaway confessed she wasn’t always comfortable embracing her natural disposition, believing it left her exposed to criticism and exploitation. She emphasized this wasn’t about being inherently demanding, but rather a self-preservation tactic developed in a challenging industry environment.

The 'Diva' Label and Specific Incidents

The narrative surrounding Hathaway’s early career was often punctuated by reports of perceived “diva” demands. One widely circulated story from 2015 detailed an incident where she sent her breakfast – poached eggs, an English muffin, and avocado – back four times due to minor imperfections.

Initially, the egg was deemed too runny, then the muffin was cold, followed by temperature issues. By the time the order was correct, Hathaway requested a fried egg instead. Other reports included claims she delayed press interviews in 2008 until receiving specific soy lattes and scrambled eggs.

A claim that she demanded silence during a 2013 charity event was vehemently denied by her publicist, who stated it was entirely fabricated. These incidents contributed to a public perception of Hathaway as entitled and demanding.

'The Devil Wears Prada 2' and a Newfound Confidence

Now, with the release of The Devil Wears Prada 2, nearly two decades after the original film’s success, Hathaway seems to have shed that armor. The sequel sees her reprising her role as Andy Sachs, now a features editor returning to Runway magazine.

The storyline involves a power dynamic shift as Miranda Priestly, played by Meryl Streep, approaches retirement and faces competition from her former protégé, Emily Charlton. Hathaway’s willingness to revisit this iconic role and openly discuss her past experiences suggests a newfound confidence and acceptance of her own imperfections.

She acknowledges she is not perfect, but emphasizes her inherent kindness and the challenges she has overcome. The film is set to premiere on May 1, 2026, and Hathaway has already been making appearances at premieres in New York City and London, showcasing a more relaxed and self-assured persona. Her recent fashion choices reflect a woman comfortable in her own skin.