As Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton geared up for Season 3 of “Bridgerton,” they faced the transition from supporting roles to lead characters with a mix of excitement and trepidation. While watching the performances in the first two seasons, Coughlan felt a sense of ease, knowing the spotlight wasn’t on her yet. “As supporting actors, you can go, ‘I’ll do my little bit but it doesn’t really matter because the main story is over there,’” she shared with Reuters. However, stepping into the shoes of the main characters brought a newfound pressure that was overwhelming for both actors.
“Bridgerton,” created by Shondaland and Netflix, delves into the romantic escapades of the Bridgerton family against the backdrop of London’s high society in the early 1800s. Season 3, set to premiere on Thursday, follows the highly anticipated friends-to-lovers journey of Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton, portrayed by Coughlan and Newton, respectively. Newton emphasized the relatability of the friends-to-lovers trope, noting its resonance with many viewers, which adds to the anticipation surrounding the upcoming season.
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The show’s new showrunner for Season 3, Jess Brownell, views Penelope and Colin’s romance as a significant draw for audiences. She sees their storyline as an opportunity to infuse humor, lightness, and playfulness into the series, capitalizing on the chemistry between Coughlan and Newton. Brownell’s decision to prioritize Pen and Colin’s arc reflects a departure from the chronological order of the book series by Julia Quinn, but she believes it aligns with viewers’ familiarity and investment in these characters.
In crafting Penelope and Colin’s storyline, Brownell aimed to deviate from the pattern established in previous seasons, where Colin remained oblivious to Penelope’s feelings. Instead, she sought to introduce new dynamics and challenges, making Colin work for Penelope’s affections. This decision reflects the show’s commitment to evolving character arcs and keeping the audience engaged in unexpected ways.
As “Bridgerton” ventures into its third season, the spotlight shifts to Penelope and Colin, promising audiences a fresh perspective on their journey from friendship to romance. With Brownell at the helm, viewers can expect a blend of humor, heart, and intrigue as the beloved characters navigate the complexities of love and society in Regency-era London.
