Devil Wears Prada Sequel Promotional Clip Depicts Character, Draws Criticism

A promotional clip for the upcoming film 'The Devil Wears Prada 2' has prompted criticism from some online users in East Asia. The clip, posted by 20th Century Studios on social media on April 16, features a Chinese assistant character portrayed by Chinese-American actress Helen J Shen.

The footage has been viewed millions of times since its upload. The criticism focuses on the character's name, which some users say sounds similar to a 19th-century term used in Western countries to refer to Chinese immigrant workers. Hong Kong's Oriental Daily News, as reported by The Korea Herald, described the phrase as one that conveys views on Chinese accents and intonation.

Additionally, the character's appearance in the clip includes a buttoned-up striped shirt, checked skirt, and spectacles, while she mentions her Yale education and 3.86 grade point average.

Some social media posts have described the portrayal as involving stereotypes. One user on X wrote that the depiction includes elements like child-like dress, glasses, overqualified credentials, and insecurity, calling them fantasies rather than accurate representations.

Another post referred to the character as an awkward type who brags about her Yale degree and GPA upon first meeting. A third user stated on X that the name, styling, and overall look represent stereotypes in a film from 2026. These posts have circulated on various platforms.

South Korean-American director Joseph Kahn commented on X that the character's outfit is couture in the context of a fashion-themed film. He suggested it reflects typical Gen Z characteristics rather than stereotypes. The studio enlisted K-pop star Jang Won Young of Ive for promotional material alongside Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway.