We can now divide Netflix subscribers into two categories: Those who have seen, loved, and obsessed over Bridgerton, and those who just simply haven't watched the show yet. This Regency era romantic series gave us all the ooey gooey feelings as we watched Daphne and Simon's relationship play out on our screens — and offered a happy distraction from everything going on in the world in the meantime. But what about the actors who have brought these beloved characters from Julia Quinn's novel to life?
There's no doubt that their roles in Bridgerton have helped propel the cast to fame, especially where Phoebe Dynevor and Regé-Jean Page are concerned. And given that this series is loosely a period piece, it goes without saying that a lot of hair, makeup, and wardrobe was involved in making the cast look the part, which means many of them look pretty different off screen.
Wondering what our favorite Bridgerton stars look like in real life? Here are their characters vs. the actors who play them in present day. Fascinating stuff!
Daphne Bridgerton
On the show, Daphne Bridgerton is the heroine of our story. When the new social season arrives, Daphne is officially ready to marry, and it seems like there's a bit of competition over who the lucky man will be (including a prince!). But in the end, she only has eyes for Simon.
Phoebe Dynevor
Though Bridgerton may now officially be Phoebe Dynevor's biggest role yet, there's a good chance that fans of the show recognize her from another series: Younger, where she played Clare for several episodes. The 25-year-old actress has also had roles in series like Snatch and Dickensian.
Simon Basset
Anyone finish watching Bridgerton with a major crush on this guy? Yeah, there's a lot of us out there. The Duke of Hastings certainly made an impression on fans — and on Daphne. How often do we actually get to see a happily ever after happen in the first season of a TV show?
Regé-Jean Page
For some, Bridgerton was the first introduction of Regé-Jean Page the actor, but he's been working in the industry for a long time! He starred in the short-lived Shondaland series For The People, as well as the movie Mortal Engines in 2018. And for those wondering, pronounce his name Reggae-John.
Penelope Featherington
It's hard not to fall in love with Penelope Featherington while watching Bridgerton (not to mention her adorable friendship with Eloise Bridgerton). We won't ruin the ending of the season for you if you haven't already watched, but it seems like Penelope is going to continue to be a key player in future seasons.
Nicola Coughlan
Fans of Derry Girls and Harlots are definitely familiar with Nicola — she played a major role in both of those series before she went on to star in Bridgerton. Our fingers are crossed we'll be seeing a lot more of her as Penelope on Netflix very soon!
Eloise Bridgerton
Aside from being Penelope Featherington's BFF, Eloise Bridgerton is one of Daphne's sisters — and one of her close confidantes. She has a lot of dreams that go beyond finding love during the future social seasons, and it'll be interesting to see where that takes her. Also, her outfits are flawless.
Claudia Jessie
In the recent past, Claudia Jessie has appeared in several different series, including Defending The Guilty, Porters, and Vanity Fair, as well as appearing in Doctor Who in 2018. Right now, she seems to be staying away from social media, but with Bridgerton's continued success, that might change.
Colin Bridgerton
Colin Bridgerton ended up in a pretty difficult situation on the show — he fell in love with Marina, but then felt betrayed when he found out the real reason she was trying to get married so quickly. Did we see a hint of a romance with Penelope in the future, though? Could happen …
Luke Newton
Though playing Colin in Bridgerton is certainly going to be one of his most memorable roles ever, Luke Newton has been acting for the past decade. He played Luke Atwood in The Cut, and also played Ben Evans in the Disney series The Lodge.
Marina Thompson
When Marina Thompson comes to stay with the Featheringtons, she's in a difficult situation: She's pregnant with her boyfriend's baby, who happens to have gone to war — and premarital sex isn't exactly something that's welcomed with open arms in the Bridgerton world. And it's not like Lady Featherington is too comforting about it, either.
Ruby Barker
Ruby Barker is still a relative newcomer, though we never would have known it judging by her performance in Bridgerton. Her first role was in 2017, when she played Daisie in Wolfblood, and since then, she's had roles in TV series Doctor and Cobra.
Queen Charlotte
Queen Charlotte definitely ended up being a fan favorite — after all, she's a HBIC if we've ever seen one (and yes, we love that she's a dog lover). We'd totally watch an entire series based just on the queen if we could. But for now, Bridgerton will have to do.
Golda Rosheuvel
Though we may never be able to see her as anything but the legendary Queen Charlotte from now on, Bridgerton was hardly Golda Rosheuvel's first role! She's also known for playing Agnes in the film adaptation of Lady Macbeth, and she played Sally Thomas in an episode of Luther.
Anthony Bridgerton
As the oldest son of the Bridgerton family, Anthony has a lot of responsibility on his shoulders — and he doesn't always handle the weight of all that responsibility well. Between his relationship with Siena and his macho behavior, he's kind of a mess, but he does love his family.
Jonathan Bailey
Before his Bridgerton fame, Jonathan Bailey has had a long career in TV and movies. His most notable roles include playing Sam in Crashing, the role of Olly Stevens in Broadchurch, Lance Miller in Jack Ryan, and he even provided a voice for the Final Fantasy XIV: Shadowbringers video game.
