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Vanessa Williams is taking on the iconic role of Miranda Priestly, a fashion mogul and fierce editor-in-chief, in the highly anticipated musical adaptation of The Devil Wears Prada. At 61 years old, the former beauty queen is proving that anything is possible as she ages beautifully.

Wearing a black leather gown, Vanessa Williams poses outside of The British Museum at the World Premiere after-party for The Devil Wears Prada
Vanessa Williams at the official party for ‘The Devil Wears Prada: The Musical’ world premiere | Neil Mockford/WireImage

Miss America 1984 has come a long way from her humble beginnings in Tarrytown, New York. A child of music teachers, Williams grew up in a musical household. This naturally prepared her for the beauty pageant circuit and Hollywood. Over 60 years later, the Ugly Betty actor celebrated the world premiere of The Devil Wears Prada: The Musical in London.

Wearing a black leather gown, Vanessa Williams poses outside of The British Museum at the World Premiere after-party for The Devil Wears Prada
Vanessa Williams at London’s British Museum on December 1, 2024 | Neil Mockford/WireImage

Williams wore a stunning black gown by American fashion designer Pamella Roland alongside Chopard diamond hoops and a bracelet. She wore added a smokey eye and pinned her long hair up into a wavy bun.

Known for her commanding stage presence, Williams brings a unique blend of elegance and ferocity to the character of Miranda Priestly. The Devil Wears Prada fans have been able to see how she’s paying homage to the beloved role while making it her own. Sir Elton John wrote the music for the West End production, which is generating buzz not only for its fun take on the fashion world but also for its stellar cast, including Taylor Iman Jones as Andy Sachs and Javier Muñoz as Nigel.

Stars of The Devil Wears Prada Musical, Vanessa Williams and Georgie Buckland perform on stage during the show
Vanessa Williams and Georgie Buckland during ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ at The Dominion Theatre | Dave Benett/Getty Images

This marks a triumphant return to Broadway for Williams, whose debut as Aurora in 1994’s Kiss of the Spider Woman earned her widespread acclaim. Over the years, she’s showcased her versatility in productions such as 2002’s Into the Woods, which earned her a Tony nomination for Best Actress in a Musical, and 2013’s The Trip to Bountiful, where she co-starred with Cicely Tyson. Her performance in 2010’s Sondheim on Sondheim further solidified her reputation as a dynamic stage actress.

The stars of The Devil Wears Prada musical, Amy Di Bartolomeo, Georgie Buckland, Vanessa Williams, and Matt Henry, pose together outside of the theatre before opening night
Amy Di Bartolomeo, Georgie Buckland, Vanessa Williams, and Matt Henry at ‘The Devil Wears Prada: The Musical’ party | Jeff Spicer/Jeff Spicer/Getty Images

Williams has been busy with other projects as well. The Desperate Housewives actor is producing A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical, which premiered in November on Broadway. In 2024, she voiced Dr. Perdue in the animated comedy series, Velma, and appeared on an episode of The Good Wife spinoff Elsbeth.

Supporters and stars of The Devil Wears Prada musical, Vanessa Williams, Donatella Versace, Sir Elton John, and Dame Anna Wintour pose together before the show
Vanessa Williams, Donatella Versace, Sir Elton John, and Dame Anna Wintour at ‘The Devil Wears Prada Musical’ charity gala in support of the Elton John Aids Foundation | Dave Benett/Getty Images for The Devil Wears Prada Musical
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Williams’ history with theater reflects her passion and range, seamlessly transitioning from powerhouse vocals to nuanced acting. At 61, she remains a celebrated figure in entertainment, proving her talent transcends time. With The Devil Wears Prada, Williams adds another jewel to her illustrious career, captivating audiences with her magnetic performance.

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