"Not Hot Enough for Romance?": The Spectator's Offensive Take on Bridgerton's Leading Lady Ignites a Firestorm

Hold onto your bonnets, Bridgerton fans, because the ton is in an uproar! A recent article in The Spectator has sparked widespread condemnation for its blatantly sexist and fatphobic attack on Nicola Coughlan, the beloved actress who plays Penelope Featherington.

The article, penned by Zoe Strimpel, takes aim at the show's central romance between Penelope and Colin Bridgerton (played by Luke Newton), arguing that Coughlan's appearance makes her an implausible love interest.

"Reader, she is not hot, and there is no escaping it," Strimpel writes, her words dripping with disdain. She goes on to argue that Coughlan's physique makes her an unsuitable romantic lead, claiming that viewers will find it unbelievable that a "handsome, rich aristocrat" like Colin would fall for someone who isn't "shapely."

"Disgusting," "Vile," "Horrific": Bridgerton Fans Rally Around Nicola Coughlan

The response to Strimpel's article was swift and furious, with fans and celebrities alike taking to social media to express their outrage and support for Coughlan.

"The Spectator can shove their archaic views where the sun don't shine," wrote one outraged fan on Twitter. "Nicola Coughlan is a brilliant actress, and her talent shines far brighter than any shallow beauty standards."

Another fan pointed out the hypocrisy of Strimpel's argument, writing, "It's 2024, and we're still subjected to these tired tropes about who is and isn't worthy of love based on their size? The only thing unbelievable here is The Spectator's blatant fatphobia."

The Spectator's "Fat Girl Can't Get the Prince" Narrative: A Tired Trope That Needs to Die

Strimpel's article is a glaring example of the pervasive and harmful stereotypes that persist about body image, particularly for women in the public eye. The idea that a woman's worthiness of love and romance is contingent upon conforming to narrow beauty standards is not only outdated but downright dangerous.

Coughlan herself has been vocal about the importance of body positivity and has spoken out against body-shaming in the past. The fact that The Spectator chose to publish an article so blatantly disrespectful not only to Coughlan but to its own readers is a testament to the publication's skewed worldview.

Beyond the Backlash: Celebrating Bridgerton's Success and Coughlan's Talent

While The Spectator may cling to its outdated notions of beauty, the rest of the world is embracing Bridgerton's message of inclusivity and celebrating Coughlan's undeniable talent. The show's continued success, with Season 3 topping Netflix's charts, speaks volumes.

Perhaps it's time for The Spectator to take a page from Lady Whistledown's book and learn a thing or two about keeping up with the times. Because in a world hungry for diverse stories and authentic representation, talent, charm, and a good dose of wit will always be far more captivating than outdated beauty standards.