The “Bridgerton” stars in an interview
When the chemistry is just right
Jonathan Bailey finds himself in a love triangle with Charithra Chandran (left) and Simone Ashley (middle) in the second season of the Netflix hit “Bridgerton”.
©Netflix/Liam Daniel
The Netflix hit “Bridgerton” returns with season two. In an interview, the series stars around Jonathan Bailey give first insights.
Corsets, scandals, Regency glamor and lots of gossip: The long-awaited second season of the hit series “Bridgerton” starts on Netflix today (March 25). The new episodes focus on the eldest son of the Bridgerton family, Lord Anthony (Jonathan Bailey). The viscount wants to find the right woman for the new ball season and ends up in a tricky love triangle with sisters Kate (Simone Ashley) and Edwina Sharma (Charithra Chandran).
In an interview with the news agency spot on news, Jonathan Bailey (33) and Simone Ashley (26) give first insights into the new season and also reveal their personal highlights. Charithra Chandran (25) also explains who, for her, is the real gem of the second season.
We met her character in the first season of “Bridgerton”. How has Lord Anthony Bridgerton evolved since then?
Jonathan Bailey: As Season 2 begins, we find him in a desolate position. He feels he must find a wife to fulfill his duty as firstborn, viscount, and head of the family. In some episodes, the series looks back at traumas that Anthony experienced. The viewer gets more insights into the relationship with his mother and siblings. You get a glimpse behind the facade of a young man who, out of a sense of duty, cannot reveal his feelings. The second season shows his human side and also his pursuit of happiness, of which Kate is a big part.
They replace Regé-Jean Page as the male lead. Did you feel some pressure about that? Did you go to the gym more often to prepare?
Bailey: No, not really. (laughs) In the first season I was naked a lot more than now! The two characters are completely different. Anthony is a Bridgerton, you get a lot more of him. I actually feel like I’m following in Daphne’s footsteps.
You, on the other hand, have joined a cast who already knew each other. Did that intimidate you?
Simone Ashley: I was a bit nervous at first, but the anticipation quickly got the better of me. Especially on bringing the story of the two sisters to life with Charithra. But of course also to working with Jonathan. The whole film crew welcomed us with open arms and really gave us an effortless start.
What moments during filming will you remember?
Charithra Chandran: Definitely Newton the Corgi for me. He often stole the show from us. He was definitely the jewel of the season.
Bailey: For me it was a moment at Aubrey Hall, the home of the Bridgertons. Simone and I stood on the balcony and had a breathtaking view of the grounds. At that moment, I felt like Anthony and Kate’s love story was reaching a climax. When I play a character, I empathize so much with them that I care deeply about their happiness. The great moments between the two are therefore unforgettable for me.
What wisdom does season two of “Bridgerton” give viewers along the way?
Chandran: I’ve learned that, especially for women, putting yourself first can sometimes be a hurdle.
Bailey: That you should question the role you’re born into. And that it is important to harmonize head and heart. That’s definitely a central theme of this season.
Ashley: That you should show courage.
There is incredible on-screen chemistry between you. Can you tell us the secret recipe?
Ashley: I think it has a lot to do with luck. Chemistry comes from a shared enthusiasm and understanding, but also a lot of trust in each other.
Bailey: And a certain dedication to the story you want to tell. On top of that, the Shondaland production company has a really good sense of who will be a good match in front of the camera. You chose Simone before I even met her.
How important is it that Bridgerton has such a diverse cast?
Ashley: That way viewers from all over the world can feel a part of the series. It is important that minorities feel represented in the film industry!
Bailey: It also makes the story more interesting. To be a part of a show that is so on the offensive in terms of diversity is something that makes you very proud as an actor.
Chandran: Also, a diverse cast is much nicer to look at. It’s literally more colourful.