Binge watched Season 3 of Netflix hit period drama series “Bridgerton” at least a dozen and a half times already? Good, then you already know the power of the ”Bridgerton” look known as coquette aesthetic.
Entryway Screen grab from Realtor
And a mansion on the real estate in Lake Forest, Illinois, revels in it.
Interior Screen grab from Realtor
The 15,000-square-foot estate — named the Suffield House — is listed for $5.49 million after taking a dramatic price cut from $10.1 million when it was first listed back in October 2022, Realtor.com says. The home even underwent a makeover to appeal to a certain crowd.
Foyer Screen grab from Realtor
“The buyers that are now looking at the house are all younger,” listing agent Jennifer Ames told Realtor. “We took out all of the heavy, antique, dark furniture. We put in fresh, patterned furniture and photographed it. What that did is change the narrative. Now everyone that’s looking at the house is in their 40s. The perception is that the house is [in] more move-in condition, because it feels more modern to the eye.”
Sitting room Screen grab from Realtor
Judging from the photos, much of the appeal comes from the bright splashes of color on the walls throughout, with one dining area being a rich baby blue and another a bumble bee yellow. One bedroom even combines the two colors.
Dining room Screen grab from Realtor
“This home’s interior is loaded with priceless, perfectly preserved architectural features, including imported English paneling, antique Chinese oil paintings, exotic marbles, ornate plaster moldings and decoration, original light fixtures, nine fireplaces (each more beautiful than the next), custom millwork, and a handsome Versailles patterned hardwood floor,” the listing on Realtor says.
Backyard Screen grab from Realtor
“This home was ahead of its time with features including a 4-stop passenger elevator and a sophisticated central heat and air conditioning system.”
Dining room Screen grab from Realtor
Other features, per the listing, include:
Butler’s pantry
Breakfast room
Silver vault
Flower arrange room
Staff apartment
Gift-wrapping room
Gym
Storage
Rec room
Basement
Wine room
Swimming pool
Spa
Pool house
Bedroom Screen grab from Realtor
The coquette aesthetic is a romantic style that the house clearly showcases, which is sure to draw the generation the buyers are hoping to attract.
Interior Screen grab from Realtor
Lake Forest is about a 35-mile drive north from Chicago.
Pool area Screen grab from Realtor
TJ Macías is a Real-Time national sports reporter for McClatchy based out of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Formerly, TJ covered the Dallas Mavericks and Texas Rangers beat for numerous media outlets including 24/7 Sports and Mavs Maven (Sports Illustrated). Twitter: @TayloredSiren
Who doesn’t love BuzzFeed’s puppy interviews? They all have the same format, and that format is absolutely perfect: Your favorite stars struggle to concentrate on basic interview questions while they’re bombarded with adorable puppies!
The puppy interview for Bridgerton season 3 has dropped, featuring cast members Luke Thompson, Claudia Jessie, Nicola Coughlan, and Luke Newton. But let’s face it: the puppies are the real stars here.
All the interviews are great—one puppy falls asleep on Luke Thompson’s lap!—but Coughlan’s interview is, hands down, the best. First off, she literally cries when the puppies are brought in. That is the correct reaction!
Then, as she’s cooing to a puppy and saying, “I’m going to call you Cutie Face! Like Lovey Dove!” the puppy jumps off her lap to go play. Right before it leaves, it farts audibly into her lapel mic.
Coughlan, being the class act that she is, is a good sport about it. She laughs it off and goes back to playing with the pups. After all, puppies don’t know farts are gross! Besides, as someone who has been farted on (and worse) by lovable dogs, I can confirm that it’s physically impossible to stay mad at them.
My favorite thing about the BuzzFeed puppy interviews, though, is that you can adopt all the animals that are playing with the stars. That little puppy asleep on Thompson’s lap? That could be your companion. The gassy little scamp who won over Coughlan’s heart? Apparently, that puppy needs a home! With good ventilation!
According to BuzzFeed, all the dogs featured in the interview come from North Shore Animal League, a no-kill rescue and adoption organization. Interestingly, neither the video nor the org’s website say which dogs are featured in the interview—perhaps to ward off fans who might hastily adopt a dog simply because its proximity to celebrities. That means it’s impossible to know exactly which puppy in the organization is the little farty butt.
Still, somewhere out there, that puppy is waiting for a forever home. We’re rooting for you, Cutie Face!
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Ifyouever fancied yourself as “fancy,” the Harlem School of the Arts gets you.
The cultural arts center in upper Manhattan, New York, threw a 60th anniversary “Bridgerton” themed party that was the definition of it. But the school also gets the many students whose creativity, ingenuity and talents are nurtured and fostered there, with young people ages 2 to 18 engaging in everything from dance, theater and music to media and design. It’s HSA’s mission to ensure that “all children have access to the power of the arts,” inspiring more than 60,000 students over the years. This includes former students like rock ’n’ roll icon Lenny Kravitz, who welcomed attendees to the party in a video testimonial honoring the school that set him on his path to success.
Monday night’s event raised more than $2.5 million for the school, benefiting the students who not only performed, painted, danced and acted throughout the evening, but were also its greeters and hosts, all in full costume with British accents and precocious charm. About 75% of the students at HSA receive tuition assistance, which makes events like this both special and necessary.
In the past this annual spring gala has been a masquerade ball, but for the Harlem school’s 60th, the black-tie event was transformed into a sumptuous, lavish fete full of “lords” and “ladies” dressed in period costumes as well as elevated tuxedo and ballgown fare, like a Regency-era, mini Met Gala.
Held at a venue Queen Charlotte herself would have approved of (the opulent Ziegfeld Ballroom in midtown Manhattan), the evening honored HSA founder and world-renowned concert soprano Dorothy Maynor, alongside author Nicole Avant, a former ambassador to the Bahamas, and parents Jacqueline and Clarence Avant, who were honored posthumously for their philanthropy and influential work in entertainment and politics.
The evening also honored ABC News’ Deborah Roberts; the NBC “Today” show’s Al Roker, with son Nicholas Roker; civil rights activist Jennifer Jones Austin, the CEO of the Federation of Protestant Welfare Agencies; and the Herb Alpert Foundation. It featured an after-party hosted by Black Thought of legendary hip-hop band The Roots, with founding member Questlove deejaying throughout the remainder of the evening — because there’s nothing more “Bridgerton” than people in period costumes dancing the night away to a modern soundtrack of the finest R&B, electronic dance music and hip-hop that Questlove could offer.
Watch how the night unfolded for the fancified guests and the dedicated students in the images below.
Students Neriah, Nana, Aimony and Issys are shown after getting ready for HSA’a 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Amechi, Olander, Nana, Ellem, Calli, Khari, Mercedes, Eva, Min, Aimony, Marina, Issys and Neriah pose for a group photo before HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Student Neriah has makeup applied while preparing for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Students prepare for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Students Renea, Uma and Codie prepare for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
A student prepares for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Student Amechi prepares for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Student Lekia is shown after getting ready for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Student Ellem prepares for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Students Ellem, Marina, Eva, Calli and Khari are shown after getting ready for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Students prepare for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Student Eva is shown after getting ready for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Student Nana prepares for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Student Logan is shown after getting ready for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Dana helps student Min prepare for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Students Sofia, Eduardo, Roen and Levi are shown after getting ready for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Students Neriah, Ellem and Issys prepare for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Students Ellem and Eva are shown after getting ready for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Students Ellis, Everton and Logan take a break before HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Student Dylan is shown after getting ready for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Student Marina, with the assistance of Mercedes, gets prepared for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Students Nana and Aimony are shown after getting ready for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Aaliyah takes a photo of Lekia, Amechi, Min, Eva, Alimony and Ellem, all students of the Harlem School of the Arts, as they prepare for the 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Students Ellem, Amechi and Ellis chat while preparing for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Student Amechi is shown after getting ready for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Sara helps students Nova’Jane, Raiyi and Zoe prepare for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Students Min and Ellem prepare for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Student Min is shown after getting ready for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Student Eva prepares for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Student Neriah is shown after getting ready for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Skylah and Brittany prepare for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Students Khari and Ellem prepare for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Student Issys is shown after getting ready for HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Rayon Richards for HuffPost
Students attend HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Craig Barritt/Getty Images
Students perform at HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Craig Barritt/Getty Images
Students perform at HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Craig Barritt/Getty Images
Students attend HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Craig Barritt/Getty Images
Students perform at HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Craig Barritt/Getty Images
Students attend HSA’s 60th Anniversary Gala held at Manhattan’s Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on Monday, May 20, 2024.
For a show that thrives on historical inaccuracies, and is quite unbothered about it, adding another one of a queer love story seems only fitting. Bridgerton needs LGBTQ+ storylines, specifically romances and not just queer characters. I appreciate the devastatingly artsy queer characters with sad endings and complex storylines, but we need the fluff and angst too. We need two homosexuals on-screen gazing into each other’s souls whispering, “I burn for you” as much as we needed Simon and Daphne to nail that scene.
Netflix’s Bridgerton is a modernized period romance drama that is big on representation and inclusivity. It has garnered millions of loyal fans solely based on its glass-shattering romance beyond the stereotype. Aside from all the post-racial fantasy of Regency era glitz and glam with a hint of new age music and aesthetic, it is also deft with grandiloquent love confessions. And I would love nothing more than a heartfelt romance pumped with slow-burn love that brews between two homosexual characters as leads. Why? Because love is love. And the times they are a-changin’.
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But Bridgeton and its Spin-Off had sprinkled some queer love on screen before:
Much awaited and long overdue.
While the gay lovers Brimsley and Reynolds received the warmest welcome as they arrived with Queen Charlotte in her spin-off series, season one’s Henry Granville (played by Julian Ovendon) and the other by-passed minor character Lord Wetherby did not seem to be doing much in terms of queer representation. At the art-parties organized by Henry, there were crumbs of lingering touches and eye-contacts between budding lesbian and gay characters in the far background.
When Benedict, played by Luke Thompson the second oldest Bridgerton, met Henry Granville, a popular London-based artist, they inarguably sparked some chemistry. Henry’s libertine lifestyle rife with art, poetry, alcohol, and orgies did tease a potential queer romance between him and Anthony’s seemingly spare brother.
But the idea was put out surprisingly fast considering the progressiveness quota of the show. Though hypersexualizing the gays is not the answer. Happy endings must include LGBTQ+ stories lest they fail to meet the standard this show has already set.
Honestly, Benedict and Henry would have made more sense than the half-baked romance between Benedict and Madame Delacroix that dropped out of nowhere. However, Benedict is not the only Bridgerton sibling having potential of a queer romance. Eloise has been sparking the gay debate online this season, I’m sure Lady Whistledown is already aware of it.
Julia Quinn who authored the original books said to Out magazine, “A gay lead on Bridgerton sounds like a good idea to me because the objective of the saga has always been to show that all people deserve a happy ending.”
If there was an idea, there should be an assemblage of events to make it the new reality. That’s what the showrunners of series based on books are equipped with – to take what exists and make it better by putting unique yet relevant content together. They are practically Nick Fury.
Besides, there are eight Bridgerton children each of whom are set to have their own unique love storylines and you’re telling me none of them are queer already? Blimey!
Why does Bridgerton of all the other romance dramas require Queer representation?
I’m sure people are tired of hearing, ‘They cannot show a queer romance in the show since in the Regency era it was illegal’, ‘Not every romance drama requires gay love stories’, ‘The books do not have any queer protagonists’, etc. Well, guess what? Back in the Regency era, society was so underdeveloped that even social satirist Jane Austen had to keep her works an open secret. Forget the racially inclusive ecosystem Bridgerton is being hailed for.
Besides, a wedding is not the culmination prize of a happy ending. A story of love is… And it can be between two human beings in multitudinous manners despite spatio-temporal constraints because love finds a way. Though Queen Charlotte makes the rules here, I don’t. So far, they’ve covered BIPOC representation, slammed body-shamers, glorified sexuality and sensual desires in women, and hailed men of different societal and class backgrounds with varied interests. Why shy away from the queer representation then?
Following Simone Ashley’s desi-rich entry as Viscountess in season 2, season 3 lead Nicola Coughlan dazzled in shades of blue and green as she breached the society’s sensuality standard one Lady Whistledown edition at a time.
Nicola Coughlan ecstatically confessed to Pride, “I’m desperate for it. I cannot wait.” She hailed the expressiveness of the show and how vibrantly they portray intimate emotions so effortlessly which is why she said, “I think there’s so much space there for queer love stories, and I think all love stories deserve to be celebrated.”
Julia Quinn said to Cosmopolitan Spain that she is on board with a queer love story headlining a future season of Bridgeton and it’s up to Shonda Rhimes now. This show has tackled colorism, racism, body-shaming, ageism, etc. in its own light-hearted yet dramatic manner.
The main point of interest from now on is a proper nod to LGBTQ+ love because, after all the rain of hetero romances, there must come a rainbow of progress and acceptance.
Season 3 of Bridgerton is currently the #1 show on Netflix, and with good reason! The latest installment of the beloved romance series has all the drama and plot twists that made seasons 1 and 2 so addicting. So how many seasons can we expect total?
Bridgerton, for the uninitiated, follows the exploits of the Bridgerton family, an aristocratic clan in England’s regency period. As each Bridgerton sibling makes their debut in London society, they go on the marriage market and seek out the most rarest of gifts: a love match with a worthy suitor.
Season 1 of Bridgerton focuses on Daphne (Phoebe Dynevor), the eldest Bridgerton sister. In season 1, Daphne hatches a plan with the reclusive Simon Bassett (Regé-Jean Page), who is determined to end his family line by not marrying. However, Daphne and Simon’s plan backfires, and they genuinely fall in love with each other.
Season 2 switches gears to Daphne’s brother Anthony (Jonathan Bailey), who becomes embroiled in a love triangle with Kate Sharma (Simone Ashley) and her sister Edwina (Charithra Chandran). However, other romances percolate in the background, including Eloise Bridgerton’s (Claudia Jessie) sudden crush on a printer’s apprentice, and Colin Bridgerton’s (Luke Newton) fraught relationship with Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan).
Now, in season 3, Penelope and Colin’s relationship is in the spotlight—and younger Bridgerton sibling Francesca (Hannah Dodd) is meeting suitors of her own.
So how many seasons will there be in total?
In the original novels by Julia Quinn, there are eight Bridgerton siblings and eight books. So far, Netflix seems on board to match that number with eight seasons, although so far, the show has only been renewed through season 4.
But the people behind the show are hopeful that eight seasons will happen. Series creator Shonda Rhimes recently told Variety that she’s pushing for eight seasons. “I’ll be a granny gumming my food,” she says, “but we want to make sure that there’s ‘Bridgerton’ for all of us who love it.”
Even back in 2020, executive producer and former showrunner Chris Van Dusen told Collider, “I feel like the first season was primarily about Daphne and her love story with Simon. But, this being a family of eight children and there being eight books, I would love to be able to focus and really tell stories and love stories for all the Bridgerton siblings. For each character, for sure.”
Will Rhimes and Van Dusen get their wish? Here’s hoping.
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The last few months have been a certified Nicola Coughlan takeover. From Big Mood to the release of her Bridgerton season, it’s no doubt that she’s captivating audiences with her quick wit, brilliant acting and ability to age up or age down at a moment’s notice. Falling in love with her seems like a simple task and Mr Darcy from her iconic Uber Eats ad can vouch.
Coughlan’s Get Almost Almost Anything campaign was a raging period romance success. Now, it’s returning to Australian screens to give us all a reality check on the romanticisation of that era.
If you’re not familiar with Nicola Coughlan’s Uber Eats ad, it sees the actress (as herself) sitting on the couch watching a period romance. The doorbell rings and it’s her very own Mr Darcy on her doorstep, complete with coat tails and top hat. As he attempts to vye for her affection, he finds himself infatuated with her ankles and peeing in things that aren’t actually chamber pots.
Coughlan’s rejection of him shatters the illusion of a 19th century romance in the modern world. It also might just hold us over between the drops of season three, part one and two.
To celebrate the campaign’s return Down Under, Uber Eats is giving away 100 limited edition fragrance packs to gentle readers that message “Eau de Romance” to the Uber Eats Australia Instagram page. Why? Because they’re paying homage to the reality of it all and telling us that while the courting of that age may be romantic, the personal hygiene standards are not.
Look out for Nicola Coughlan’s period romance and tell us if that would really make you swoon.
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The Featherington household had issues in previous seasons of Bridgerton, money being a big one. In season 3 though, we see those problems seemingly vanish for the Featherington family, but we don’t really know why they are not suddenly worried about it. In comes Aunt Petunia.
While Prudence Featherington (Bessie Carter) and Philippa Featherington (Harriet Cains) are too busy trying to start their families with their new husbands, those money issues that plagued the Featheringtons for an entire season are … not there? And just in time as Penelope is starting her relationship with Colin (Luke Newton). One line in the first episode of the season, titled “Out of the Shadows,” seems to have “fixed” those issues. For now.
Portia Featherington (Polly Walker) announces to the family in episode 1 that their money problems are solved by money “left to them by their Aunt Petunia.” There was apparently an actual Aunt Petunia, but she didn’t really give them money in this case. Portia is covering up for the money that Jack Featherington (Rupert Young) stole in season 2, but the lie isn’t going to be something that just … goes away.
Knowing that an Aunt Petunia existed, maybe this is to say that the money actually did come from an Aunt Petunia and Portia just paid off what Jack stole? But given how Bridgerton functions, I don’t think that this is the end of this situation.
Will we get to know more about the real Aunt Petunia?
As someone who has not read the books but knows how Bridgerton works with the drama, I do not think this is the end of Aunt Petunia. Could we get to meet an actual Aunt Petunia, who turns out not to be dead, and then Portia will be forced to explain what happened with Jack?
There are plenty of ways that this could resolve itself, but for the sake of wondering who Aunt Petunia is, she is an aunt that existed, but I don’t think the money that the Featherington family got from her is necessarily the truth.
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Interest in Staying in Grand British Period Estates Explodes With Each New Season of ‘Bridgerton’
LONDON, England, May 17, 2024 (Newswire.com)
– Historic homes in the UK are bracing for a boom in bookings as the new season of Bridgerton lands on Netflix. Data from Storied Collection, the world’s finest collection of privately owned historic castles and estates available for exclusive use, tracked the impact the second season had on reservations. Nearly every property showed a boost in web traffic, enquiries and bookings, in some cases up as much as 300%.
The Earl of Derby, who owns the historic Grade II Knowsley Hall, said, “Whether it’s Downton Abbey, The Crown or Bridgerton, every time one of these wonderful series lands, the phone starts ringing and the emails start pinging.
“It’s exciting and amazing and we marvel every time it happens. The last series of Bridgerton gave us a welcome boost post-COVID and we look forward to seeing what season three brings. My prediction is, with travel restrictions gone, and so many cultural and ancestral links to the UK, this time the U.S. will catch fire with enquiries and bookings.”
Michael Goldin, COO of Storied Collection, which offers 17 privately hired historic castles and estates across UK and Ireland, said, “The show has a phenomenal impact on the estates and families we work with. We work with Earls, Lords, Ladys and Viscounts just like in the show, and as soon as an episode airs, the “Bridgerton Bounce” begins. Viewers start to daydream mid-show, people start to wonder if there is a castle or historic home out there for their family get-together and the digital traffic rockets.
“Our analysis shows the series has a real impact on people wanting to look, find and book historic houses rich in British history and culture. We are expecting North American demand on our website alone to double as the show dominates the next few months on Netflix. It’s amazing, but history is sexy and it sells.”
Properties within the Storied Collection are no strangers to the limelight themselves. Dabton House in Scotland was also a backdrop to the popular series Outlander; the House of the Northern Gate in Scotland, which was a favorite of Queen Elizabeth II and a younger King Charles III, featured in The Crown; Gilmerton House in Scotland has hosted the Beckhams and Jimmy Choo; and Mapperton House in England has appeared alongside Oscar winners Gwyneth Paltow for Emma and Robert Downey Jr. for Restoration.
And to complete the Bridgerton circle, Dabton House is owned by a Duke; Knowsley Hall is owned by an Earl; Carlton Towers is owned by a Lord; Gilmerton House is owned by a Sir; and, finally, Mapperton House is owned by a Viscount. All are available for exclusive private hire for family or friend celebrations, film or magazine shoot locations, as well as corporate retreats.
Bridgerton‘s third season arrived on our screens on Thursday and viewers have wasted no time getting stuck into the first four episodes in part one.
While most fans have been loving the new storyline, which explores the friend-to-lovers arc between Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) and Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan), some couldn’t help but question the absence of a major character.
WATCH: Are you enjoying season 3?
Season one star Phoebe Dynevor, who portrays the eldest Bridgerton daughter Daphne, was notably missing from the new episodes.
Taking to social media, fans expressed their disappointment, with many hoping for an update on Daphne and her husband, the Duke of Hastings (Regé-Jean Page).
One person questioned: “Where is Daphne?? I miss Phoebe Dynevor,” while another penned: “Depending on how the next 4 episodes go I might love this season even more than season 2. I wanna see Daphne tho (and Simon) WHERE IS SHE?”
A third person remarked: “I genuinely need Daphne back like… she’s literally a Bridgerton. THE SHOW IS CALLED BRIDGERTON,” while another added: “Can Daphne come back at least for a single episode pls I want Francesca and her scene pls #BRIDGERTON.”
Phoebe confirmed her departure from the show last year during a red carpet appearance at the Sundance Film Festival in Utah. When quizzed over upcoming storylines for her character, the actress told Screen Rant: “Sadly not in season three. Potentially in the future. But season three, I’m just excited to watch as a viewer.”
She later spoke about the reason behind her exit during an interview with Variety, revealing that Daphne’s story had come to an end. “Well I did my two seasons,” said the 29-year-old. “I’ve done what I wanted to do with that character and she had a great arc. If they ask me back in the future, who knows?”
While Phoebe isn’t in season three, it’s possible that she might return for future seasons as showrunner Jess Brownell is keen to bring the Bridgerton siblings back together.
“We want to keep seeing all of our Bridgerton siblings,” she told Variety in 2022. “We feel like those moments when the whole family is together is what really makes the show and makes all of us, I think, want to be a Bridgerton. So yes, you will definitely be seeing Daphne, Anthony and Kate — how much, I don’t want to say quite yet, but you have to tune in.”
Season three tells Penelope and Colin’s love story
Phoebe’s departure comes after her on-screen husband Regé-Jean Page left the show. The actor didn’t return to the drama after season one and appears to have no plans to reprise his role.
While chatting with Vanity Fair last year, the Dungeons & Dragons star was asked whether his decision was an attempt to avoid being pigeonholed, to which he said: “It’s much simpler than that. I signed up to do a job and I did the job and then I did some other jobs. That’s it. That’s the story. I wish it was more glamorous than that.”
Regé-Jean Page left the show after series one
He added: “[After] we finished the story, the temptation would be to roll with the distractions and go, ‘Oh, well, the story went really well so we can kind of change this up and make some other stuff up, I guess.’ That was never what we’d signed up to do.”
Bridgerton is available on Netflix.
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Warning, gentle reader: Spoilers ahead for Bridgerton season three, as well as plot points from the novels.
After two seasons of Regency-era will they, won’t they, Bridgerton season three finally turns its gaze toward the Ton’s wallflowers—Colin and Penelope, played by Luke Newton and Nicola Coughlan. Just like the show’s twoprevious seasons, the third installment of the Netflix series is based on a Julia Quinn novel, Romancing Mister Bridgerton, which was originally published in 2002.
Showrunner Jess Brownell previously told Vanity Fair that she isn’t beholden to the books, using them as a creative guide rather than gospel. “My approach is to adapt the emotional spirit of the book, and then also some of the key moments,” she says. “Because TV is a different medium, we have to fill in the plot a bit more and create more turns and twists.”
That also means creating compelling storylines for the supporting characters in Bridgerton’s sprawling ensemble cast. This season, the Featherington sisters (Harriet Cains, Bessie Carter) hilariously compete to create a male heir, the Mondriches (Martins Imhangbe,Emma Naomi) get an education on society life after their son comes into a prized inheritance, and even resident mean girl Cressida Cowper (Jessica Madsen) inches her way towards a redemption arc—all side plots invented by the show’s writers.
But rest assured, several beloved moments from the books have also made the journey to the screen. “There are certain moments from the book—like the carriage moment, like the illusion to this mirror moment in the book…. Those were moments that we felt were really important to keep,” Brownell says.
Ahead, take a look at the most distinct changes from page to stage on Bridgerton this season, including intriguing new love interests and a certain hotly anticipated carriage ride.
Benedict’s Book Put on Pause
The first major departure from the book to series occurred before production had even begun. Instead of focusing on second son Benedict’s (Luke Thompson) love story, as explored in the third Bridgerton novel, An Offer From a Gentleman, the show skips ahead to Colin and Penelope’s romance, which is the focus of Quinn’s fourth book. “The decision to switch to Colin and Penelope was made between myself and Shonda,” Brownell previously told VF (that would be Shonda Rhimes,Bridgerton cocreator). “Season two hadn’t wrapped yet, so there was still time to influence the ending of season two to set it up properly for season three. And we both just felt strongly that…we know these characters really well. We’ve watched this dynamic where Colin doesn’t quite get it that Penelope likes him, and we felt like we didn’t want that to grow stale.”
This shift has skewed a few time markers from the book—namely, Kate (Simone Ashley) and Anthony (Jonathan Bailey) do not yet have two children, and Colin and Penelope are ages 20 and 22, as opposed to 28 and 33, respectively.
Penelope’s Transformation
In both the book and series, Penelope ditches her sour citrus wardrobe and tight poodle curls for a new look—one that feels less like her oppressive Featherington family and more like herself. But the novel frustratingly incorporates weight loss into Penelope’s glow-up. Quinn writes that Penelope could “now call herself ‘pleasantly rounded’ rather than ‘a hideous pudge.’” Remarks like that one are mercifully cut from the show. “We think that Penelope is beautiful, and I don’t think it’s really a part of her story,” Brownell told Variety.
Rosa Hesmondhalgh as Rae, Kathryn Drysdale as Genevieve Delacroix, and Nicola Coughlan as Penelope FeatheringtonLIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX
Bridgerton is back, and this season, we’re going on a friends to lovers journey. In Season 3, Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) and Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) will have their moment in the spotlight, and we can’t wait to watch the romance unfold.
This year, we’ll see that Penelope has finally given up on her long-held crush on Colin after hearing his disparaging words about her last season. She’s made the decision that it’s time to take a husband — preferably one who will provide her with enough independence to continue her double life as Lady Whistledown. Meanwhile, Colin is back from his summer travels, but Penelope is giving him the cold shoulder. In a bid to win back her friendship, Colin offers to mentor Penelope in her quest for a husband. But when his lessons start working a little too well, will sparks fly between #Polin at last?
As part of the NetflixBridgerton in Bowral event, POPSUGAR Australia had the opportunity to sit down with Bridgerton Season 3 showrunner Jess Brownell, as well as stars Luke Newton and Nicola Coughlan. There, we got to talk all things Bridgerton Season 3, like the evolution of Colin Bridgerton’s character, whether the Bridgerton glow up is real, and what we can expect to see this season.
Colin’s Evolution and the Bridgerton Glow Up
Up until now, fans have known Colin Bridgerton as a fairly lighthearted character. This year, however, we can expect to see new sides of his character emerge as he steps into the lead role for Season 3.
Season 3 showrunner Jess Brownell told POPSUGAR Australia that previously, Colin “[hadn’t] quite found himself”.
“He has been written as a guy who’s coming of age,” she explained. This year, however, Colin will enter the season “really thinking he knows who he is”, only to realise that may not be the case.
“When his feelings for Penelope start growing, I think he questions whether he really does know who he is or not,” she added.
Newton was excited for opportunity to develop new aspects of Colin’s character, and said that “[Colin] needed to go through that” journey.
“It was really fun for me to dive into that,” he said, “because one of the fans’ favourite things about Colin is his lighthearted nature and sense of humour… [but] he needed to be humbled slightly”.
Newton continued: “I loved doing the scenes later on where he’s just like, giddy and happy and —”
“They’re some of my favourites!” Nicola Couglan interjected, smiling.
“— and all his dad jokes.”
As Newton said that Colin’s happiest scenes made for “a nice environment to be on set”, he stopped himself, turning to Coughlan.
“I know you were going through it at that point,” he conceded, as they both laughed, “but I was having a great time!”
“No, I love those moments of levity between them, because it’s one of the nicest things about the show, is when you see the love!” Coughlan said. “It’s really special.”
The Impact of the Bridgerton Glow Up
The “Bridgerton glow up” has been a favourite topic of discussion among fans of the Netflix series for years, and this year, we can expect to see Colin and Penelope go through their own glow ups. However, it’s not just for our benefit as fans and viewers of the show — it’s also a reflection of the characters’ journeys.
Newton said that he “felt like there was a real shift from all departments” behind the scenes this season “to sort of tell the story of Colin’s journey while he was away”. Seeing these physical changes, he said, helped him develop Colin’s character “and really see the story” in his mind.
“From the costume, hair and makeup, every department came together and wanted to change his look completely,” Newton said. “And there was inspirations from all the places that he’d been to, so yeah. It was amazing for me to be at my first fitting and feel that there was a load of knowledge about my character just in the costumes I was wearing.”
Coughlan echoed the sentiment, praising the crew as “the most incredibly talented people”.
“There’s six people who make Pen’s dresses alone,” she said, “and for them to literally be sourcing materials from all around the world to put it together… there’s such thought and a story behind every single look.”
The impact of the glow up, Coughlan said, is that it makes them hold themselves “completely differently” as their characters evolve.
“It was amazing, the transformation this season,” she added.
The Friends to Lovers Story We All Want to See
A longtime writer and production staff member on several Shondaland shows, Season 3 marks Jess Brownell’s first time as Bridgerton showrunner. It’s an exciting moment for Brownell, but one that comes with “huge pressure” as well.
“I remember getting the call, and I was so excited at first, and then I just had this moment of, ‘Oh God, can I do this?’,” she recalled. “But once you’re in it, it’s such a fun sandbox to play in, that I really got lost in the fun, and just had a ball.”
While every season of Bridgerton has its own tone to match the featured couple, Brownell said that she’s “not trying to reinvent the wheel” for Season 3.
“I love the show, I’ve loved it from day one,” she said.
As for what we can expect for the #Polin story, Brownell said that it’s going to lean into “more of a rom-com sensibility”.
“It’s a little bit more romantic, and a little bit more comedic!” she teased.
Watch the trailer for Bridgerton Season 3:
YouTube
It’s an exciting time for Newton and Coughlan, too, as they prepare to have their characters take the spotlight. For Newton, Season 3 is a culmination of “all the work [they’d] done in the lead up” to this year.
“It’s all the previous seasons, you know, and this sense that the fans are really invested in their friendship and relationship,” he said of the anticipation for Season 3.
While it “comes with pressure”, Newton added that “it’s also a beautiful thing to know that [the fans are] finally gonna get to see a story that they’ve been waiting for.”
Coughlan said that it’s “always a privilege” to be part of a beloved series like Bridgerton, but the fans’ anticipation for Season 3 is what makes it so exciting.
“It’s not like we meet Colin and Pen in Season 3 [and] they’re already fully formed into who they’re going to be,” Coughlan said. “They still have so much growing to do, and you get to go on that journey with them and it’s so satisfying.”
Bridgerton Season 3 Part 1 premieres on Thursday, May 16 on Netflix. Part 2 will premiere on Thursday, June 13.
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Another week has begun which means we have some more shows and movies to add to our watchlist. With The Fall Guy, Heeramandi and Srikanth already raising the bar in the past few days, this week we have the highly anticipated new season of Bridgerton, an animated version of the Baahubali franchise by S.S Rajamouli and also some cool family films like The Garfield Movie.
Check out all that you need to add to your weekly watchlist:
Ashley Madison: Sex, Lies and Scandal
This docu-series is based on the Ashley Madison scandal that unfolded in 2015 when a hacking group known as The Impact Team leaked data of approximately 32 million users, including names, profile information, addresses, and payment details. The series is directed by Toby Paton.
Release date: May 15
Where to watch: OTT
Uncle Samsik
Cast: Song Kang-ho, Byun Yo-han, Lee Kyu-hyung and Jin Ki-joo
This period drama starring Song Kang-ho, Byun Yo-han, Lee Kyu-hyung and Jin Ki-joo is set amid the turbulent backdrop of the 1960s. The story is a passionate tale of desire and bromance between Uncle Samsik, who ate three meals a day even during the Korean War, and super-elite, Kim San. This K-drama is directed by Shin Yeon-shick.
Release date: May 15
Where to watch: OTT
Bridgerton season 3 Part 1
Cast: Nicola Coughlan, Luke Newton, Luke Thompson and Golda Rosheuvel
One of the most loved shows of all time, Bridgerton is coming back for another season with the story focusing on Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton. Based on Julia Quinn’s books, the story picks up from the aftermath of Season 2’s Featherington Ball where Penelope discovers Colin telling a group of bachelors that he would never court her. The show stars Nicola Coughlan, Luke Newton, Luke Thompson and Golda Rosheuvel and is created by Chris Van Dusen.
Release date: May 16
Where to watch: OTT
Outer Range season 2
Cast: Josh Brolin, Lewis Pullman, Imogen Poots and Tom Pelphrey
The show starring Josh Brolin, Lewis Pullman, Imogen Poots and Tom Pelphrey, revolves around Royal Abbott, a Wyoming rancher who discovers a mysterious black void in the pasture after Autumn while he is fighting for his land and family. It is created by Brian Watkins.
Release date: May 16
Baahubali: Crown of Blood
Cast: Sharad Kelkar, Samay Thakkar, Rajesh Khattar and Siddharth Awasthi
Serving as a prequel to the Baahubali franchise, the animated series revolves around the epic struggle of Amarendra Baahubali and Bhallaladeva against Raktadeva as they try to protect the kingdom of Mahishmati. The characters are voiced by Sharad Kelkar, Samay Thakkar, Rajesh Khattar and Siddharth Awasthi among others and the show is created by Sharad Devarajan and S.S. Rajamouli.
Release date: May 17
Where to watch: OTT
The Big Cigar
Cast: Andre Holland, Tiffany Boone, Alessandro Nivola and Marc Menchaca
This biographical thriller drama is based on Huey P. Newton’s life. It follows Newton’s escape to Cuba to avoid prosecution for murder with the help of Bert Schneider. The show stars Andre Holland, Jordane Christie and Tiffany Boone in major roles. The series is directed by Don Cheadle.
Release date: May 17
Where to watch: OTT
The 8 Show
Cast: Ryu Jun-yeol, Chun Woo-hee, Park Jeong-min and Lee Yul-eum
This thriller K-drama is based on Bae Jin-soo’s Naver webtoons Money Game and Pie Game and revolves around eight participants who are entrapped in a hidden space divided into eight floors.The show stars Ryu Jun-yeol, Chun Woo-hee, Park Jeong-min and Lee Yul-eum and is directed by Han Jae-rim.
Release date: May 17
Where to watch: OTT
This documentary is directed by Yance Ford and discusses how American policing is all about power now and not to maintain social order.
Release date: May 17
Where to watch: OTT
IF
Cast: Cailey Fleming, Ryan Reynolds and John Krasinski
After discovering she can see everyone’s imaginary friends, a girl embarks on a magical adventure with her neighbour Cal to reconnect forgotten IFs with their kids. The show stars Cailey Fleming, Ryan Reynolds and John Krasinski among others and is directed by John Krasinski.
Release date: May 17
Where to watch: Cinemas
The Garfield Movie
Cast: Chris Pratt, Samuel L. Jackson, Bowen Yang and Snoop Dogg
In this hilarious film, Garfield has an unexpected reunion with his long-lost father, a scruffy street cat who draws him into a high-stakes heist. The cartoons are voiced by Chris Pratt, Samuel L. Jackson, Bowen Yang and Snoop Dogg and the film is directed by Mark Dindal.
Release date: May 17
Where to watch: Cinemas
Back to Black
Cast: Jack O’Connell, Eddie Marsan, Lesley Manville and Marisa Abela
The biographical drama is based on the life of British singer-songwriter, Amy Winehouse. The story revolves around the time Amy was going through a tough patch in her life before she wrote her hit album Back to Black. The film also focuses on her issues with drug addiction.
Actress Nicola Coughlan told Anthony Mason about her acting journey, landing popular roles in “Derry Girls” and “Bridgerton,” connecting with audiences and more in a sitdown interview at Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon in New York City. “I think it doesn’t really matter what you make — you want people to feel something,” said Coughlan, adding that it’s a “beautiful thing” to take people to another world.
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Bridgerton season 3 is on its way, and fans of the Regency-era romance series have already heard about a casting shakeup. With a new actress playing Francesca Bridgerton—and some photos that have leaked from the set—could we meet a little-known character named John Stirling in season 3?
Warning: this article contains spoilers for Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton novels.
Bridgerton season 3 will focus on the love story between Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) and Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton). In the season 3 trailer, we see Penelope striking out on her own, adopting a new wardrobe and deciding to find a husband. However, her love for Colin hasn’t diminished, and the season will see Colin finally starting to give Penelope the attention she’s deserved for so long.
But, as always, there won’t be just one love story in Bridgerton season 3. Rumor has it that Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson) may get the beginning of his own love story, and Eloise Bridgerton (Claudia Jessie) took her first steps towards romance in season 2.
Plus, Francesca Bridgerton, one of the younger Bridgerton siblings, was recast for season 3 when previous actor Ruby Stokes had to bow out because of scheduling conflicts. Hannah Dodd stepped in to portray the adolescent sibling. In Julia Quinn’s original book series, Francesca gets her romance in book 6, When He Was Wicked. However, the Netflix series is going slightly out of order—for instance, Penelope’s love story doesn’t take place until book 4, Romancing Mr. Bridgerton—so it’s possible that Francesca’s story will occur sooner than a possible season 6.
So who exactly is John Stirling? Unfortunately, in the long run, he ends up being a somewhat minor character. In the books, John, who is also the Earl of Kilmartin, is Francesca’s first husband. However, John dies soon after the marriage, after a mysterious headache that Regency-era medicine can’t diagnose or treat.
John may be introduced in season 3. Actor Victor Alli was reportedly spotted in costume last year, walking with Dodd on the set of Bridgerton. However, at present, Alli’s involvement in the show is just a rumor.
(featured image: Netflix)
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In season 2, Edwina finds herself embroiled in a love triangle. She arrives in the Ton with her sister Kate (Simone Ashley) and her mother, Lady Mary Sharma (Shelley Conn), in the hopes of finding a husband.
Thanks to her charm and beauty, Edwina has no trouble at all landing a catch: Anthony Bridgerton. Despite Kate’s objections, Anthony proposes to Edwina, and the two prepare to marry.
However, at the altar, Edwina finds out something earth-shattering: Anthony and Kate are in love. Edwina runs away from the altar, and the wedding is called off.
How old is Edwina?
If Edwina seems a bit naive for not realizing that her sister and her fiancé are in love, you can surely forgive her—after all, she’s very young.
In Julia Quinn’s original Bridgerton novels, which the Netflix series is based on, Edwina is only 17 years old. The Netflix series never explicitly states her age, but given that Regency-era debutantes tended to be 17 or 18 years old, we can assume that Edwina’s age is true to the books.
But how does Edwina’s story end?
Edwina is saved by the Queen
In the end, Queen Charlotte saves the day, preserving not just Edwina’s reputation, but her marriage prospects.
After the wedding is called off, Queen Charlotte announces that it was her own idea to cancel it. That announcement dispels the scandal surrounding Anthony and Kate’s love, and makes Edwina a marriageable debutante again.
But that’s not all. Queen Charlotte also offers Edwina another possibility for marriage. She says she wants to introduce Edwina to a certain prince who’s looking for a wife. This prince, of course, is Charlotte’s grandnephew Prince Frederick of Prussia, who courted Daphne in season 1.
That’s right! Edwina might become a princess! We don’t find out what happens at the end of season 2—and I should note that the Netflix series diverges from the books in suggesting that Edwina might marry Frederick—but if she does marry him, it’ll be a fitting happy ending for a character who has a heart of gold.
Will Edwina drop in to visit in future Bridgerton episodes? Maybe. We may find out when the first half of season 3 drops on May 16.
(featured image: Netflix)
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Ever since Netflix blessed us with “Bridgerton” back in 2020, we’ve been totally hooked on the Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton dynamic. After what feels like forever, our favourite pair is finally set to get their moment in the spotlight, when the show’s upcoming third season drops. Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton are at the helm of this season’s storyline, which will plunge us deep into Penelope and Colin’s journey from friends to lovers.
Based on Julia Quinn’s novels, “Bridgerton” has been serving us some seriously steamy romance and heartfelt moments since the show’s premiere, and we just can’t get enough. But here’s the thing — Nicola and Luke aren’t just amazing on-screen partners; they’re also the best of friends off-screen.
The duo recently kicked off the “Bridgerton” festivities in Bowral, NSW, and Netflix even hosted a regency-themed screening at the Milton Park Country House.
During a Q&A session, Nicola spilled about their chemistry, saying, “We’ve known each other now [for] five years, and people were like, ‘What did you do to build the chemistry? And I’m just like, ‘Well we just stopped repressing it’. And it was fine, we didn’t have to do anything.”
“It was amazing, we’ve been on such a journey together. It felt like we were babies in Season 1, it’s strange to look back on, I’m so excited I can’t believe you guys are going to see it,” she added.
And when Netflix asked about their new roles as “Bridgerton’s” power couple, Nicola couldn’t help but express her trust in Luke, saying, “I couldn’t ask for a better partner to go into this with. I have such trust in Luke, and I hope he has it in me to go forward on it.”
Luke chimed in, adding, “There’s so much love for [Penelope and Colin’s] relationship, which brings its pressures… but it also really warms me.”
Their off-screen connection proved invaluable, easing even the most awkward moments on set.
“I feel like there’s always that question being asked of, ‘Is it easier to do the intimacy scenes with someone who is your friend of four years or someone you just met for one day?’ I can safely say it’s easier with a friend. There really is that sort of support,” Luke shared with Entertainment Tonight.
As teasers of Penelope and Colin’s romance emerge ahead of the highly anticipated season three premiere, Nicola and Luke’s on-screen chemistry stands out as the most palpable in the franchise.
Beyond the realm of “Bridgerton”, Nicola and Luke have charmed social media with their endearing friendship, often sharing moments together under the hashtag ‘Polin’.
In light of the duo’s palpable on-screen chemistry, some fans can’t help but wonder if there’s something more between Nicola and Luke in real life. Well, sorry to burst your bubble, folks, but they’re just really good friends. Luke was reportedly dating actress Jade Louise Davies from 2019 to early 2023, while Nicola’s last known relationship was with her “Derry Girls” co-star Laurie Kynaston, though it seems they’re no longer together.
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Netflix gifted fans of Lady Whistledown a treat on Christmas morning with an all-new look at Bridgerton Season 3. The poster and images were released to celebrate the third anniversary of the show’s release.
The poster features a mirror with the reflection of Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan), who will be the main focus of Season 3. The images tease Penelope’s impending romance with Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) from Romancing Mister Bridgerton, the fourth book in Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton series. Season 3 will not spotlight Benedict (Luke Thompson), the focus of the third book.
“From Shondaland and new showrunner, Jess Brownell, Bridgerton is back for its third season and finds Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) has finally given up on her long-held crush on Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) after hearing his disparaging words about her last season,” Netflix’s official synopsis reads. “She has, however, decided it’s time to take a husband, preferably one who will provide her with enough independence to continue her double life as Lady Whistledown, far away from her mother and sisters. But lacking in confidence, Penelope’s attempts on the marriage mart fail spectacularly.”
“Colin has returned from his summer travels with a new look and a serious sense of swagger,” continues Netflix’s official synopsis. “But he’s disheartened to realize that Penelope, the one person who always appreciated him as he was, is giving him the cold shoulder. Eager to win back her friendship, Colin offers to mentor Penelope in the ways of confidence to help her find a husband this season. But when his lessons start working a little too well, Colin must grapple with whether his feelings for Penelope are truly just friendly. Complicating matters for Penelope is her rift with Eloise (Claudia Jessie), who has found a new friend in a very unlikely place, while Penelope’s growing presence in the ton makes it all the more difficult to keep her Lady Whistledown alter ego a secret.”
Besides Coughlan and Newton, Season 3’s cast includes Claudia Jessie as Eloise Bridgerton, Luke Thompson as Benedict Bridgerton, Golda Rosheuvel as Queen Charlotte, Adjoa Andoh as Lady Danbury, Ruth Gemmell as Violet Bridgerton, Lorraine Ashbourne as Mrs. Varley, Hannah Dodd as Francesca Bridgerton, Simone Ashley as Kate Sharma, Jonathan Bailey as Anthony Bridgerton, Harriet Cains as Philipa Featherington, Bessie Carter as Prudence Featherington, Jessica Madsen as Cressida Cowper, Florence Hunt as Hyacinth Bridgerton, Martins Imhangbe as Will Mondrich, Will Tilston as Gregory Bridgerton, Polly Walker as Portia Featherington, and Julie Andrews as Lady Whistledown.
Additional cast members include Hugh Sachs as Brimsley, Emma Naomi as Alice Mondrich, Kathryn Drysdale as Genevieve Delacroix, and Sam Phillips as Lord Debling.
Jess Brownell serves as the showrunner for Season 3, taking over for series creator Chris Van Dusen. Shonda Rhimes, Betsy Beers, Tom Verica, and Van Dusen serve as executive producers.
Bridgerton Season 3 will be released on Netflix in two parts consisting of four episodes each. Part 1 hits the streamer on May 16, 2024, with Part 2 arriving one month later on June 13, 2024.
David M. Benett / Jed Cullen / WireImage / Getty Images
Now, on top of trailers, posters, and more that are making everyone so excited, the “Barbie” press tour has been one of the best events of the summer, with the cast hitting various red carpets to celebrate the movie.
Summer provides a little bit more vacation time to spend on the beach. So naturally, people are diving into novels. Plus, there’s BookTok, where you can get an instant, possibly honest review of a book before entering a store. And, to top it all off, the rising popularity of leather bound novels and vintage-style books. Needless to say, the accessory of the summer is a good book.
I’ve been tearing through books lately, spending hours in the sand barely looking up from the pages. I had to spend hundreds of dollars at Barnes and Noble to ensure I have a stock of books to last me at least through July. A library card would be cheaper, but keeping the books on my bookshelf fits my aesthetic better.
I’m a follower of Reese’s Book Club recs and I have seen what the latest in BookTok’s world is. Which is why you need to hear about the best books I’ve been reading this summer. Summer 2023 is the season for reading, because it’s trendy and it’s a way to get off your screen.
Here are my recs for what you should be reading this summer!
“Lou is a happily married mother of an adorable toddler. She’s also the victim of a local serial killer. Recently brought back to life and returned to her grieving family by a government project, she is grateful for this second chance. But as the new Lou re-adapts to her old routines, and as she bonds with other female victims, she realizes that disturbing questions remain about what exactly preceded her death and how much she can really trust those around her.”
“William Waters grew up in a house silenced by tragedy, where his parents could hardly bear to look at him, much less love him—so when he meets the spirited and ambitious Julia Padavano in his freshman year of college, it’s as if the world has lit up around him. With Julia comes her family, as she and her three sisters are inseparable: Sylvie, the family’s dreamer, is happiest with her nose in a book; Cecelia is a free-spirited artist; and Emeline patiently takes care of them all. With the Padavanos, William experiences a newfound contentment; every moment in their house is filled with loving chaos.
But then darkness from William’s past surfaces, jeopardizing not only Julia’s carefully orchestrated plans for their future, but the sisters’ unshakeable devotion to one another. The result is a catastrophic family rift that changes their lives for generations. Will the loyalty that once rooted them be strong enough to draw them back together when it matters most?”
“Chemist Elizabeth Zott is not your average woman. In fact, Elizabeth Zott would be the first to point out that there is no such thing as an average woman. But it’s the early 1960s and her all-male team at Hastings Research Institute takes a very unscientific view of equality. Except for one: Calvin Evans; the lonely, brilliant, Nobel–prize nominated grudge-holder who falls in love with—of all things—her mind. True chemistry results.
But like science, life is unpredictable. Which is why a few years later Elizabeth Zott finds herself not only a single mother, but the reluctant star of America’s most beloved cooking show Supper at Six. Elizabeth’s unusual approach to cooking (“combine one tablespoon acetic acid with a pinch of sodium chloride”) proves revolutionary. But as her following grows, not everyone is happy. Because as it turns out, Elizabeth Zott isn’t just teaching women to cook. She’s daring them to change the status quo.”
“Sally Milz is a sketch writer for The Night Owls, a late-night live comedy show that airs every Saturday. With a couple of heartbreaks under her belt, she’s long abandoned the search for love, settling instead for the occasional hook-up, career success, and a close relationship with her stepfather to round out a satisfying life.
Enter Noah Brewster, a pop music sensation with a reputation for dating models, who signed on as both host and musical guest for this week’s show. Dazzled by his charms, Sally hits it off with Noah instantly, and as they collaborate on one sketch after another, she begins to wonder if there might actually be sparks flying. But this isn’t a romantic comedy—it’s real life. And in real life, someone like him would never date someone like her . . . right?
With her keen observations and trademark ability to bring complex women to life on the page, Curtis Sittenfeld explores the neurosis-inducing and heart-fluttering wonder of love, while slyly dissecting the social rituals of romance and gender relations in the modern age.”
“Lea Mortimer has everything under control. As a highly sought-after consultant specializing in transforming dilapidated French country estates into boutique hotels, she relishes her freedom as a single, childfree woman. And her life is full, occupied as much by her impeccable historic renovations as by the aristocratic — and often exhausting — French families she works for.
But after the heated divorce of her closest friend and cousin Stephanie Bryce, Lea finds herself taking Stephanie and her college-aged daughter to the Loire Valley in France for the summer. As they tag along for Lea’s latest work assignment, despite their best intentions, they threaten to complicate the tightrope act of launching the hotel on time. And when Lea unexpectedly falls for the much-younger son of her boss, she quickly learns the beauty and danger of losing control.
As affairs bloom in the idyllic chateau, wars of inheritance play out between the family, and betrayals threaten even the most solid relationships. Lea realizes that it’s not just a broken heart she’s risking, but her entire, meticulously-constructed life blowing up in her face.”
“Penelope Wells, precocious daughter of a poet, is holidaying at her family’s distinctly bohemian hotel on the French Riviera. She spends the summer beneath the green umbrella pines and oppressive purple bougainvillea scribbling into her Anthology of Hates to pass the time. Until she meets the Bradleys.
Don and Eva Bradley are well-behaved and middle-class – everything she is not. It is love at first sight. But the friendship ends in tears. Penelope and Don Bradley leave the Riviera, embarking on the painful process of growing up. She, in love with an elusive ideal of order and calm. He, in rebellion against the philistine values of his parents.
Compellingly told in a series of first-person narratives, A Wreath for the Enemy explores death, morality, friendship and shows just how brittle and chaotic our lives can become once they collide explosively with those around us.”
Dear reader, season 3 of “Bridgerton” is on its way, and it promises to be a spicy one.
ET’s Denny Directo spoke with the show’s star, Nicola Coughlan, at Netflix’s TUDUM! Global Fan Event in Brazil, about the upcoming season and her kiss with co-star Luke Newton.
“Terrifying,” Coughlan admitted when asked what it was like to shoot the show’s steamy scenes. “Luke and I read the books at the beginning of season 1, and it was funny to us. We were like, ‘Imagine if we have to kiss and do this.’ And then season 3 come on and we were like, ‘Oh god,’ and then it’s like, it’s my friend. I have to kiss my friend.”
She continued, “And you can’t pretend to kiss someone, you have to really kiss them. It’s a spicy one. It’s a lot of the stuff from the books that the fans expect has made it into the show.”
The pair couldn’t help but laugh through those awkward moments, no matter how passionate they were meant to be,
“Oh my god, there was one day where we had to sort of do like a very romantic, beautifully written romantic scene. And we were just like peeing ourselves with laughter, ’cause you just have to, like, look into each other’s eyes and we were like, ‘Oh god,’” Coughlan shared.
As for how she’d describe the season, the “Derry Girls” actress said “romantic.”
“Romantic? Because I keep saying — season 1 was about passion. Season 2 was about longing. Season 3 is romance. It’s so romantic,” she gushed.
As for the start-studded Netflix fan event, Coughlan said she was thrilled to be attending in person.
“It’s really special. It’s really special. Like, when I found out they were doing TUDUM live, because we did it before, you know, because of COVID, all virtually, and it was great. But there’s nothing like actually meeting the people who love the show and thanking them, and they’re so passionate,” Coughlan said.
“They’re all dressed up. They’re screaming, they’re running around. I would say I felt like Beyoncé, but I was at a Beyoncé concert the other day, and people stopped me afterwards that were fans of ‘Bridgerton’ and my friend was like, ‘No offense, but if I just saw Beyoncé, I really wouldn’t care about you,” she continued.
“They did care,” Coughlan added. “It was so amazing.”
Coughlan’s Penelope is at the centre of the action this season, as the story shifts to focus on her character and her friendship turned love affair with Colin Bridgerton (Newton). As for being at the forefront as she promotes season 3, she said it’s exciting, albeit a bit scary.
“It’s really exciting. It’s scary. I wish Luke was here. He’s in London,” she noted before sharing that Newton has a bit of FOMO over missing the event. “He’s doing amazing. He’s doing a show, but he’s sad. His FOMO is, like, next level. He was like, ‘What are you eating? What’s happening? Who’s there?’ And I’m like, ‘I’m sorry. Chris Hemsworth is in the gym this morning.’”
For more on “Bridgerton”, check out the links below.
