The Bridgerton cast has received acclaim from fans across the world for their compelling portrayal of writer Julia Quinn’s book characters. From lead actors such as Regé-Jean Page and Phoebe Dyvenor, who play central love interests Simon Basset, Duke of Hastings and Daphne Bridgerton, to the wonderful narration of Dame Julie Andrews as mysterious gossip writer Lady Whistledown, Bridgerton has an all-star cast. But whilst we might all be swept away by their brilliance in Netflix’s hit period drama, this likely isn’t the first you’ve seen of them.
Many fans might not have recognised the Bridgerton cast outside of the glamorous Regency-era surroundings. But if you look a little closer, you might just notice a few familiar faces.
Here’s what the Bridgerton cast looks like in real life - and where you might have seen them before...
Where have you seen the Bridgerton cast before?
Regé-Jean Page, playing Simon Basset, Duke of Hastings
Regé-Jean Page quickly left a lasting impression on Bridgerton fans when he appeared on screen as handsome and wealthy Simon Basset, Duke of Hastings. Prior to landing this exciting role, he also appeared in Bridgerton producer Shonda Rhimes’ For the People, as well as in British television series Waterloo Road, amongst other projects.
Nicola Coughlan, playing Penelope Featherington
Penelope Featherington might come across as a little unassuming at first in Netflix’s Bridgerton, but that doesn’t mean you won’t recognise her very talented actor, Nicola Coughlan. The Irish star first rose to fame in the award-winning comedy, Derry Girls, set in Northern Ireland during The Troubles, where she played Clare. She also played Hannah Dalton in Hulu series Harlots.
In Bridgerton, she plays the youngest Featherington and is best friends with Eloise Bridgerton. By the time the series reaches the end, it’s revealed there’s much more to Penelope than meets the eye.
Golda Rosheuvel, playing Queen Charlotte
In Bridgerton, Golda Rosheuvel spectacularly plays the glamorous Queen Charlotte. And her theatrical career will likely have helped her bring this flamboyant character to life. Golda has appeared in everything from A Christmas Carol to Electra and Romeo & Juliet, whilst her film credits include Lady Macbeth and I Remember You.
Polly Walker, playing Portia Featherington
In Bridgerton, Polly Walker expertly plays Featherington matriarch Portia and she is no stranger to period and historical dramas, having appeared in Mr Selfridge and Rome. But perhaps her most famous recent role was as Gill Biggeloe in BBC’s Line of Duty. If anyone can play a brilliant schemer, it’s Polly Walker!
Ben Miller, playing Lord Featherington
Acting as Polly Walker's on-screen husband, Lord Featherington, Ben Miller will be instantly recognisable to fans of the BBC comedy-drama Death in Paradise where he played DI Richard Poole in the first 2 series. Bridgerton viewers might also have seen him before in Johnny English and Paddington 2.
Adjoa Andoh, playing Lady Danbury
In Bridgerton, Adjoa Andoh plays Simon Basset’s insightful mentor Lady Danbury who is not a lady to be crossed. In real life, Adjoa has appeared in many Royal Shakespeare Company and National Theatre products as well as in a variety of television projects that include Law & Order: UK, Doctor Who and Liar.
Did you recognise any of the Bridgerton cast from their other roles?
