Simone Ashley Talks Representation and ‘Bridgerton’ in ‘Glamour UK’ - Netflix Tudum
- Liam Daniel/NetflixThe Discourse“I didn’t really watch period dramas much, because I felt like I couldn’t relate to them.”By Lydia WangMarch 11, 2022
This spring Simone Ashley is trading in her Moordale uniform for a corset and gown. But even though she’s a natural in the ton — just watch the Bridgerton Season 2 trailer, or just ask Shonda Rhimes — Ashley told Glamour UK that she never imagined she’d star in a regency series. “I didn’t really watch period dramas much because I felt like I couldn’t relate to them, maybe because I couldn’t see myself within one,” she said in a March 10 interview. “And then, Bridgerton came along.”
Ashley, who is Tamil Indian, added that she “felt very typecast sometimes” in the earlier days of her career. In an interview with the US edition of Glamour, also published March 10, she said she’s interested in “culturally specific roles, but also very much so non-culturally specific” projects. “I want to take roles that maybe people wouldn’t expect me to play,” Ashley explained. “I want to go up for roles that anyone can relate to. I want to be seen for my talent. I think I’m very smart and I’ve got great ideas, and I want to be seen for that and not for how I look.”
Ashley plays Kate, a fiery, loyal and fiercely protective newcomer to the Bridgerton universe. Her character instantly clashes with rakish viscount Anthony Bridgerton (Jonathan Bailey), but what begins as animosity turns into a slow-burn friendship and mutual respect — and, ultimately, something much steamier.
You can watch Kate and Anthony’s palpable chemistry for yourself in the sizzling Season 2 trailer — just try not to swoon when they almost brush hands. Ashley may not have always been a fan of period pieces, but come March 25, she’s a shoo-in for this season’s diamond.
All About Bridgerton
- News#Polin season is now in bloom.By Ariana RomeroAug. 8
- NewsThese new products will be the object of all your desires.By Ariana RomeroJuly 26
- ExplainerYour comprehensive guide to the ton’s most illustrious families.By Ariana RomeroJuly 23
- ExplainerNicola Coughlan, Luke Newton, and showrunner Jess Brownell reveal more.By Ariana RomeroJuly 23
- NewsPlease welcome the Lady in Silver to the ballroom.By Ariana RomeroJuly 23
- Deep DiveA guide to Mayfair’s devastating breakups and magnificent love stories.By Ariana RomeroJuly 23
- NewsIn Season 3, Penelope and Colin see each other more clearly than any mirror.By Ariana RomeroJune 18
- Press PlayPitbull and Taylor Swift instrumentals soundtrack the drama’s third season.By Jean BentleyJune 17
Shop Bridgerton
Discover More The Discourse
- The DiscourseWho needs homework when you’ve got TV? The O Group is educating viewers on market value and commissions.By Lydia WangApril 21, 2022
- The DiscourseWe’ll never look at avocados the same way again.By Charlotte WalshDec. 30, 2021
- The DiscourseHere’s what he loved on Netflix this year.By Lydia WangDec. 17, 2021
- The DiscourseYou’re not alone.By Marisa RoffmanNov. 16, 2021
Related Videos
- Behind the ScenesTake a unique tour behind the scenesJune 273:19
- Press PlaySpoiler: They are now certified besties.June 204:40
- Deep DiveIs it mere coincidence or is their romance written in the stars?June 85:02
- TrailerWith an announcement of such magnitude comes an even greater secret….June 32:05
- Did You Know?Don’t be a harridan!May 163:15
- Sneak PeekA harbinger of fertility is coming to Mayfair.May 131:05
- Behind the ScenesPolin season is also “glow up” season for the Bridgerton cast.May 33:30
- Sneak PeekKate is still the object of all of Anthony’s desires.May 31:06
Latest News
- First LookYesterday 6:45 pm
Popular Now
- Deep DiveA deadly conspiracy leads to a tense showdown.By John DiLilloSept. 6
- New on NetflixStream The Perfect Couple, His Three Daughters, Selling Sunset, and more.By Erin CorbettSept. 3
- NewsHere’s who scored an exclusive invite to the six-episode adaptation.By Tara Bitran and Ariana RomeroYesterday 4:53 pm
- NewsThe heartwarming doc hits Netflix on Sept. 27.By Amanda Richards and John DiLilloSept. 5