Simone Ashley: A Rising Star Embraces Both Acting and Music

Simone Ashley spent last summer embodying the dream life that countless aspiring actresses fantasize about. She was cast as Amari, the new first assistant to Miranda Priestly in the highly anticipated sequel, The Devil Wears Prada 2. This role is particularly significant as it pays homage to Emily Blunt’s iconic portrayal in the original film. Moving from the U.K. to New York City for filming, Ashley seized the opportunity not just to act but to pursue her passion for music. In her downtime, she poured her creativity into her debut EP, Songs I Wrote in New York, which was released last month. She described that summer as "the best" of her life, capturing her blissful experiences in the EP’s poignant opener, "Sublime." The song conveys a nostalgic feeling of carefree childhood summers, a sentiment that resonates deeply with many fans.

Ashley’s connection to The Devil Wears Prada goes beyond the role; it’s a cherished part of her childhood. "It was one of the movies I would watch a few times a year," says the 31-year-old actress. When she received the news about the sequel, her dreams transformed into reality. Until now, Ashley was primarily recognized for her role as Kate Sharma in the second season of Bridgerton, a character praised for her sharp wit and persistence. Her chemical connection with Jonathan Bailey, who plays Anthony Bridgerton, stirred a fan-favorite romance that continued into the subsequent seasons. However, in her portrayal of Amari, Ashley steps into a new spotlight, showcasing not only her acting skills but also her ability to embrace a character who navigates the fast-paced world of fashion alongside the formidable Miranda Priestly.

Simone Ashley’s depiction of Amari is both distinct and multifaceted, taking inspiration from her predecessors, Emily Blunt and Anne Hathaway. While she spent considerable time with Hathaway on set, Ashley channels a more composed version of Blunt’s Emily. Armed with a high ponytail and striking heels, she maintains her cool demeanor while skillfully managing the chaos around her. Ashley’s character often corrects Miranda’s problematic statements during staff meetings or delicately sets boundaries with her colleagues. It’s a nuanced performance that allows Ashley to showcase her unique flair while honoring the legacy of the characters that came before her.

One cannot overlook the stunning wardrobe that defines Amari in The Devil Wears Prada 2. Costume designer Molly Rogers, a protégé of Patricia Field, delivers an incredible array of outfits that range from archive pieces to custom creations. The film includes significant looks by designers like Thom Browne and Dolce & Gabbana, both of which Ashley cites as her favorites. Notably, one of the film’s highlights is Amari’s appearance at the Met Gala, where she dons a custom Jean Paul Gaultier gown that originally debuted on Miley Cyrus at the 2019 Grammys. This striking look introduces a fresh perspective to Ashley’s fashion aesthetic, which has typically favored fairy-tale dresses from labels like Valentino and Versace.

Simultaneously, Ashley is establishing her musical career with the release of Songs I Wrote in New York. The EP presents a collection of guitar-driven pop songs that exude emotional depth and artistry. Collaborating with Fraser T. Smith, revered for his work with artists like Stormzy and Adele, Ashley has cultivated a sound that reflects her unique experiences. The production quality is grounded yet polished, echoing her journey as an artist. Ashley’s decision to pursue music now fits seamlessly into the spontaneity of her EP’s theme. “Why not now?” she muses, encapsulating the spirit of her creative Renaissance.

As she prepares to unveil a full album later this year, Ashley is keen on nurturing her artistic identity while enjoying the whirlwind of promotional activities surrounding The Devil Wears Prada 2. This dual pursuit of acting and music not only showcases Ashley’s versatility but also reflects her commitment to evolving as an artist. Perhaps her ability to balance these two creative outlets will inspire fans to pursue their passions without hesitation, much like Ashley did when she bravely embarked on this thrilling journey. As her star continues to rise, audiences can look forward to witnessing the incredible evolution of one of Hollywood’s most promising talents.

For more updates about Simone Ashley and her upcoming projects, you can follow her journey on Instagram and keep an eye on music streaming platforms for her EP.