Simone Ashley can’t wait to see more of Masali Baduza on screen Bridgerton.
While attending a press conference at the Monte-Carlo Television Festival, the 29-year-old actress told PEOPLE what advice she would give Baduza, who was revealed to be joining Bridgerton he stars as the main love interest for Hannah Dodd’s character Francesca at the end of season 3.
“I think I’m deeply proud of what you represent, and [know] that a lot of people are going to be so moved by the story you’re going to tell,” says Ashley. “And that we’re all here with open arms and so excited.”
The reveal of Baduza’s character Michaela is a big change from book to screen, since her character in the novels is male.
Ashley says she ultimately welcomes the decision to change gender. “I think that’s what the world needs more of, more representation,” she explains.
Bridgerton‘s Luke Newton and Nicola Coughlan on their ‘Rule Breaking’ characters in the mirror scene
Masali Baduza in ‘Bridgerton’.
Netflix
BridgertonThe decision to change Michaela’s character sparked a lot of attention on social media after the second half of the series premiered on Thursday, June 13.
Several series stars told PEOPLE they were interested in making the switch, including Victor Alli, who plays John Stirling on the hit Netflix series.
When asked how he felt about portraying the character, Alli said, “Oh. I said, ‘Whoa, that’s really cool.’ ”
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“I was told it was going to change a bit before we started any of that filming, and it was really nice. It was really enjoyable to read that introduction,” he further explained.
“I don’t think they could have done it any other way. So yeah, I’m really glad and I was really excited,” added Alli.
Who does Francesca marry in Bridgerton books? All about her love story
Baduza is not the only one with whom Ashley shared advice. Ahead of the third season, the actress also gave some guidance to Nicola Coughlan, who took over the show’s female lead.
Ashley said at the time that she made sure Coughlan, 37, had a “friend” to lean on.
“Me and Nicola would check each other out,” she explained. “She’s such an inspiration to me and I’ve learned so much from her, and there have been times when she’s given me advice. It’s been amazing to have our work environment in her.”
3rd season Bridgerton currently streaming on Netflix. Seasons 1 and 2 — as well as the spinoff series, Queen Charlotte: The Bridgerton Story — are also available for streaming.
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Source: HIS Education