For millennials, The Devil Wears Prada provided a quip for every occasion. But one line stood out: 'A million girls would kill for this job.' The 2006 film follows Andy Sachs, a young woman who lands a job as assistant to formidable editor Miranda Priestly. Despite the glamour, the message was clear: be grateful, work tirelessly, and accept poor treatment.
Many millennial women absorbed this toxic work ethic, believing they should be grateful for any opportunity and constantly prove themselves. The film, along with others like Ugly Betty and The September Issue, glorified the hustle culture of the fashion and publishing industries.
However, Gen Z is now rejecting this mindset. In 2026, the idea of sacrificing personal life for a job is no longer aspirational. Young workers prioritise work-life balance and mental health over climbing the corporate ladder at any cost.
The Devil Wears Prada's legacy is being re-evaluated as a cautionary tale rather than a career guide. The 'million girls' who would kill for that job are now choosing different paths, valuing wellbeing over relentless ambition.
