Australian actress Yerin Ha has opened up about the enchanting "Cinderella" romance that forms the core of the highly anticipated fourth season of Netflix's hit period drama, Bridgerton. The 28-year-old star, who joins the cast as Sophie Baek, described the experience as a "real gift" and a profoundly magical journey for both her character and herself.
A Magical Reading and a Dream Role
Speaking exclusively to the Press Association, Ha shared her initial reactions to the script, recalling the palpable excitement during the table read. "I remember at the reading, the way everybody was reacting to the scenes. It was so magical," she revealed. The actress, known for her role in Bad Behaviour, admitted to piecing together the narrative eagerly after the first part, praising the writing team's exceptional work and expressing hope that audiences will be delighted.
The Cinderella Narrative Unfolds
In a plotline that echoes the classic fairy tale, Ha's character Sophie is a maid who cleverly disguises herself as a member of high society to attend a lavish masquerade ball. It is there she encounters Benedict Bridgerton, played by Luke Thompson. As the clock strikes midnight, Sophie flees, leaving behind a single glove—a poignant nod to the Cinderella story. Ha emphasised how this narrative resonated deeply with her personally, stating, "It was like a Cinderella story for me and it was amazing. I think it really taught me that maybe I had actually limited myself in terms of what I could have dreamed, in terms of the roles that I could play."
Through portraying Sophie, Ha learned to dream bigger, taking valuable lessons from her character's journey. "Through Sophie, I learned that actually you can dream big and I learned so much from playing her, and took a lot away from her," she reflected, highlighting the transformative impact of the role.
On-Screen Chemistry and Character Dynamics
Luke Thompson, 37, who has portrayed the bohemian Benedict since the series' debut in 2020, discussed the compelling dynamic between their characters. "I think Benedict gets completely challenged by Sophie, I think she sort of grounds him," Thompson explained. He added a fascinating insight into their romance, noting, "I think actually (Sophie) forces his faults out a little, which is interesting, because you’d think that would be a real obstacle to love. But actually, that’s part and parcel of falling in love, right? It’s about being honest and showing someone everything about you."
New Additions to the Ton
The fourth season also welcomes Katie Leung, 38, best known for her role as Cho Chang in the Harry Potter franchise, who joins the cast as Ha's on-screen mother. Leung's character emerges as the season's main antagonist, a role the Scottish actress described as a "joy" to portray. She delved into her character's complex backstory, revealing, "There was a very intricate backstory to why (her character) is the way she is."
Leung elaborated, "She’s twice widowed, so she’s kind of left on her own, she’s very independent, but it’s not born out of choice. She’s desperate and she’s surviving and it’s really cut through society, so she’s trying to maintain her reputation, while having this dark secret that she can’t reveal. There’s a lot at stake for her." This addition promises to add depth and intrigue to the already rich tapestry of the Bridgerton universe.
Release Schedule and Anticipation
The first four episodes of Bridgerton season four premiered on Netflix on January 29, with the remaining four set to arrive on February 26. Adapted from Julia Quinn's beloved book series, the show continues to chronicle the Bridgerton family's pursuit of love amidst the opulence and drama of Regency-era high society. With its blend of romance, scandal, and now a fresh Cinderella-inspired tale, the latest season is poised to captivate audiences once again.
