Carson Kressley Says He Nearly Landed Role Later Played by Stanley Tucci
Emmy-winning TV personality and fashion expert Carson Kressley said he nearly secured the part in The Devil Wears Prada that ultimately went to Stanley Tucci, a revelation he made during a wide-ranging interview on Feb. 25, 2026. The disclosure arrives as Kressley addressed current television controversies and unveiled a new home-collection collaboration tied to his equestrian past.
Conversation with TODAY hosts Jenna Bush Hager and Sheinelle Jones
Kressley sat down with TODAY hosts Jenna Bush Hager and Sheinelle Jones for what was described as a wide-ranging conversation. The interview covered a string of topics from film casting to contemporary television culture and lifestyle ventures, presenting a cross-section of Kressley’s career touchpoints in a single segment on Feb. 25, 2026.
Stanley Tucci role in The Devil Wears Prada
During the interview, Kressley revealed that he almost landed the role in The Devil Wears Prada that was eventually played by Stanley Tucci. He framed the moment as a near-miss in his film career, noting the casting outcome as a point of personal reflection. What makes this notable is that Kressley presented the anecdote alongside discussion of his broader trajectory from fashion expert to television personality.
Comments on Queer Eye final season drama
Kressley also weighed in on the drama surrounding Queer Eye in its final season. He addressed the controversy directly in the conversation but did not offer new factual claims beyond his viewpoints; the remarks formed part of a wider commentary on how long-running series conclude and how behind-the-scenes disputes can shape public perception.
RuPaul's Drag Race 18th season celebration
He celebrated the 18th season of RuPaul’s Drag Race during the same interview, placing that milestone alongside his reflections on current programming. The reference to the 18th season served as a reminder of the show's longevity and its position in conversations about contemporary televised competition.
Ballard Designs collaboration inspired by equestrian career
In addition to media commentary, Kressley revealed plans to release a new line with Ballard Designs. He said the collection is inspired by his accomplished career as an equestrian, linking a personal athletic history to a commercial home-decor initiative. The sequence is clear: Kressley’s equestrian background informed the aesthetics and concept of the Ballard Designs line, leading him to move from personal passion into a branded product offering.
The interview combined personal anecdotes, cultural commentary and a business announcement, with Kressley threading together his past experiences and present projects. His recollection about almost getting the role that went to Stanley Tucci and the reveal of a Ballard Designs collaboration together underscore how moments of near-opportunity and long-term interests can translate into new public-facing endeavors.
