Bridgerton Star Luke Thompson Opens Up About Social Media Avoidance
Bridgerton actor Luke Thompson has publicly discussed for the first time the genuine reasons behind his decision to steer clear of social media platforms. Thompson, who portrays the free-spirited Benedict Bridgerton in the hit Netflix series, stands out among his co-stars who are notably active online.
A Contrast with Co-Stars' Online Presence
Indeed, his colleagues boast substantial social media followings. Actress Nicola Coughlan, who plays Penelope Featherington, commands an impressive 6.3 million followers on Instagram. Similarly, Jonathan Bailey, the romantic lead from season two and star of Wicked, enjoys a fanbase of 6.6 million followers. In stark contrast, the 37-year-old Rada-trained Thompson maintains a complete absence from these digital spaces.
Self-Preservation as the Core Reason
Thompson has now confessed that his avoidance is fundamentally a form of self-preservation. He explains, 'I've always felt a bit outside myself and feeling that life is something that's happening elsewhere and so social media would be like catnip for me. I'd be on it 24/7 if I had an account, because it would be too mesmerising and it would feed that outsider sense and it would be a disaster.'
He further elaborates on the broader impacts, noting, 'It's doing stuff to our attention spans and there are massive downsides.' Despite living in an era where an actor's commercial value is often judged by their social media following, Thompson, who vigilantly guards his private life, insists he has no desire to offer the public a front-row seat into his personal world.
Personal Management and False Perceptions
Speaking at a Theatrical Guild event in London's Leicester Square Theatre, Thompson clarified, 'Avoiding social media is not cleverness, it's very specific to me, I am saying that's what makes sense to me and what I enjoy about being an actor. Social media is something we all have to deal with; we have to learn to manage our phones and I am just as bad at managing my phone as everyone else is.'
He also highlighted the deceptive nature of these platforms, stating, 'Social media gives you the illusion that people either love you or hate you, and doesn't show you the billions of people who couldn't care less about you, so it gives you a false sense of importance either way.' This insight underscores his commitment to maintaining a grounded perspective amidst the pressures of fame.
Additional Entertainment Highlights
In other entertainment news, Katya Jones made a striking appearance at the Kinky Boots The Musical gala, supporting her Strictly co-star Johannes Radebe. The Russian ballroom dancer, 36, turned heads in a Parisian-chic outfit featuring knee-high boots, a red beret, and a denim skirt. The high-energy performance, benefiting WaterAid, saw Radebe reprise his role as drag queen Lola.
Meanwhile, former Strictly judge Dame Arlene Phillips expressed sympathy for recently axed dancers, reflecting on her own controversial replacement in 2009. She remarked, 'It's always sad when you have been loyal to a show like Strictly and this happens. It's devastating.'
Doctor Who producer Russell T Davies dismissed accusations of 'wokeness,' defining it as inclusivity and progressiveness. However, he voiced concerns about younger generations, stating, 'The next generation always gives you hope – I used to give that answer, but now they've all been radicalised into b******s.'
Supermodel Erin O'Connor addressed being labelled as working class, expressing frustration at being put into categories. She said, 'It's like, let's celebrate you, but let's slightly reduce you at the same time.'
Singer Boy George shared his preference for public transport over extravagance, noting, 'When I'm sitting on the bus, I think Elton John couldn't do this, but I can.'
Lastly, theatre impresario Sir Cameron Mackintosh was spotted enthusiastically enjoying a performance of Oliver! at the Gielgud Theatre, dancing and clapping during the show.
