Yerin Ha and Luke Thompson Discuss Cinderella-Inspired Romance in Bridgerton Series

Yerin Ha and Luke Thompson, stars of Bridgerton Season Four, explored their characters’ romance inspired by Cinderella during an engaging interview. Their meeting took place at showrunner Jess Brownell’s apartment in London, where they shared a meal before production began.

First Impressions and Chemistry Readings

The initial introduction was heartfelt; Thompson greeted Ha with open arms and a warm hug. Ha recalled thinking, “Oh, you’re a nice person. You have a heart of gold.” Their chemistry was evident from their online auditions, where they read a pivotal scene together. Thompson noted that it felt like they found what they were seeking in their roles.

Yerin Ha as Sophie Beckett

Ha plays Sophie Beckett, a character reflecting her Korean heritage. Her last name was changed to Baek to honor this background. The character’s journey is inspired by the fairy tale, but with a twist—Sophie seeks autonomy rather than merely waiting for a prince.

• Character Background: Sophie is a maid living with an abusive stepmother.
• Modern Take: Unlike traditional tales, she is determined and focused on her own survival.

Thompson’s Perspective on Benedict Bridgerton

Luke Thompson portrays Benedict Bridgerton. He described his character as a modern, artistic take on Prince Charming. While fascinated by romance, Benedict struggles with the complexities of real relationships.

The Fairytale Elements

Bridgerton incorporates classic fairy tale themes through its storytelling. In their romance, the masquerade ball becomes a transformational setting where love begins.

• Masquerade Ball: It serves as a crucial moment for the characters.
• Character Dynamics: Sophie represents reality, challenging Benedict’s fairy-tale perceptions.

Filming and Building Trust

The first scene the duo filmed together involves a kite-flying moment that symbolizes their characters’ journey. Ha expressed that working with Thompson helped her feel secure in her new lead role.

The shared experience of navigating their characters solidified their trust in one another. Thompson acted as a guide for Ha, easing her transition into the role of Sophie. Ha lauded Thompson’s subtlety and confidence as an actor, which contributed significantly to their chemistry.

Overcoming Challenges

Ha faced challenges stepping into a leading role in a high-profile production. Despite feeling out of place initially, she embraced the opportunity, recognizing her potential as part of Bridgerton’s diverse storytelling.

A Fresh Take on Romance

This season’s narrative diverges from previous trends in Bridgerton. For the first time, the series explores the lives of servants, with Ha and Thompson bringing an authentic and modern energy to the tale. Brownell expressed strong confidence in their ability to portray this beloved love story.

As fans await the release, the chemistry and depth of Ha and Thompson’s performances promise to deliver a fresh interpretation of romance that pays homage to its fairy tale roots while grounding it in real-world struggles and passions.