Get ready for a scandal, Bridgerton fans! Nicola Coughlan, the actress who brings the sharp-witted Penelope Featherington to life, just served up a piping hot take on modern-day double standards, and it's more shocking than Lady Whistledown's latest gossip sheet.

In a recent interview, Coughlan didn't mince words when asked about the relevance of Bridgerton's Regency-era setting to the present day. While the show is known for its lavish balls, opulent costumes, and steamy romances, it also tackles themes of societal expectations, particularly for women.

And according to Coughlan, some things haven't changed as much as we might like to think.

"It's More Insidious Now": Coughlan Calls Out Double Standards

"We like to think that we're so liberal and open," Coughlan mused, "but I think the world is still far more judgmental towards women having agency with their sexuality than it is towards men."

Coughlan's words hit a nerve, sparking a flurry of online discussions about the enduring double standards women face, even in the 21st century.

"She's not wrong," one Twitter user commented.

"We've come a long way, but women are still judged harshly for their choices, especially when it comes to sex."

Penelope Featherington: A Regency Rebel with a Modern Mindset

Coughlan sees her on-screen counterpart as a reflection of this ongoing struggle. Penelope, the often-overlooked youngest Featherington daughter, harbors a secret identity as the gossip columnist Lady Whistledown, wielding her words to expose hypocrisy and challenge societal norms.

"Penelope is the most modern heroine we've had," Coughlan explained, "because she doesn't just want marriage and love – she also wants a career.

Everyone can relate to the love story – but for women, it's hard to have it all. There should be no shame in her wanting everything."

Bridging the Gap: From Regency Romance to Modern-Day Conversations

Coughlan's comments highlight how Bridgerton, despite its historical setting, continues to resonate with contemporary audiences. The show's exploration of love, marriage, and societal expectations, viewed through a modern lens, has sparked important conversations about gender roles, sexuality, and the pressures women face.

And as fans eagerly await Season 3, with its promise of even more scandal and intrigue, it's clear that Bridgerton is more than just a guilty pleasure. It's a cultural touchstone that's prompting us to confront uncomfortable truths about the past... and the present.