“Bridgerton’s Yerin Ha: Fame’s Fearful Grip Pushes Me to Stay Grounded”
Yerin Ha, the talented actress from “Bridgerton,” shares her journey through the challenges of fame and the significance of staying grounded. She emphasizes that her passion for acting stems not from the desire for fame but from a love for the craft itself.
Background and Early Career
Born in Sydney, Ha pursued her passion for acting as a teenager. She attended an arts school in South Korea before returning to study at the National Institute of Dramatic Art in Sydney. Her family has deep roots in the entertainment industry; her grandmother is a well-known South Korean actor, Son Sook.
Breakthrough Role in “Bridgerton”
Ha achieved significant recognition for her role as Sophie Baek in the popular Netflix series “Bridgerton.” The character represents a shift in traditional casting practices, reflecting greater diversity in period dramas. This change is a hallmark of Shonda Rhimes’ series, which has redefined representation in media.
- Character Development: Sophie Baek replaces Sophie Beckett from Julia Quinn’s novels to honor Ha’s South Korean heritage.
- Casting Diversity: “Bridgerton” features a diverse cast, breaking away from the predominately white portrayals characteristic of period dramas.
The Challenge of Fame
Discussing her rise to fame, Ha admits that she finds it intimidating. “Fame scares me,” she states, underscoring her commitment to maintaining a sense of normalcy. She treasures the simple joys of life, such as enjoying coffee, spending time with friends, and appreciating nature.
The Importance of Authentic Representation
Ha expresses her thoughts on the significance of authentic representation in media. She feels privileged to portray a character that embodies universal human experiences rather than being defined solely by her ethnicity.
- “It’s beautiful to play Sophie,” Ha remarks. “The story revolves around love and human connection.”
- She notes that “It is about knowing your worth and demanding more for yourself.”
Impactful Mentorship and Role Models
Ha acknowledges figures who inspire her, like Zohran Mamdani, the newly elected mayor of New York City. His progressive values resonate with her vision for a more equitable society. She considers the themes of kindness and empathy vital, reminding audiences of their shared humanity.
Reflection on Current Events and Future Aspirations
Ha hopes that her role in “Bridgerton” will pave the way for more Asian actors in leading roles. She believes that storytelling should reflect all walks of life and that every individual should feel valued.
As her career progresses, Yerin Ha aims to stay connected to her roots and ideals. “We should be kinder to each other,” she states, stressing that recovered humanity and connection are pivotal in today’s fragmented world.
Yerin Ha’s journey illustrates the balance between navigating fame and remaining grounded, making her a refreshing presence in modern television.
