@thekingronda: One of “Bridgerton’s” most recognizable stars will have a smaller role when the Netflix hit returns for Season 5. Nicola Coughlan, 39, revealed that she is stepping back as Penelope Featherington after years at the center of the show. “It’s bittersweet,” she told E! News. Coughlan said she feels she had an “epic run,” but also believes part of the show’s appeal is how each season shifts focus to a different love story. Penelope’s journey changed dramatically over the past two seasons. After years secretly writing gossip as Lady Whistledown, her identity was finally revealed while her romance with Colin Bridgerton, played by Luke Newton, became the heart of Season 3. Season 4 showed Penelope struggling with the consequences of losing her anonymity. By the end, she chose to retire as Lady Whistledown and focus on her marriage to Colin and life as a mother. But then came one final surprise. A mysterious new person appeared claiming the Lady Whistledown identity. Coughlan says even she does not know who the new writer is because producers apparently know she is terrible at keeping secrets. She also has not been told how many Season 5 episodes she will appear in. Still, Coughlan made one thing clear: she is not saying goodbye forever. “I’ll always pop back to ‘Bridgerton’ if they want me,” she said. Season 5, expected in 2027, will instead center on Francesca Stirling and Michaela Stirling. Penelope may be stepping away from the spotlight—but Coughlan clearly isn’t ready to close the door on “Bridgerton” completely. Will “Bridgerton” feel the same with less Penelope Featherington? #Bridgerton #NicolaCoughlan #PenelopeFeatherington #NetflixNews #tvnews

Deanna Thomas ✔

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Wednesday 19 August 2026 22:28:00 GMT