Nicola Coughlan, the fiery and outspoken Penelope Featherington (and let's not forget, Lady Whistledown herself!), has found a kindred spirit in the most unexpected of places: the arms of Ruth Gemmell, who plays the formidable matriarch of the Bridgerton clan, Violet Bridgerton.
Cuddles on Set: Proof is in the Pictures
Eagle-eyed fans (and honestly, who among us isn't obsessively refreshing social media for any scrap of Bridgerton news?) were recently treated to an adorable glimpse of this unlikely duo's off-screen bond. In a behind-the-scenes photo posted by Coughlan, Gemmell can be seen literally draped over her co-star, both actresses beaming with laughter.
“Can’t get through a scene with this one without collapsing!” Coughlan captioned the photo, adding a string of heart emojis for good measure.
And this isn’t just a one-off display of affection. Sources on set report that Coughlan and Gemmell are practically inseparable between takes.
“They’re always giggling together, sharing snacks, whispering like schoolgirls,” one crew member revealed. “It’s really sweet to see.”
Opposites Attract? Not Quite!
While their on-screen counterparts might seem worlds apart – Penelope, the wallflower hiding in plain sight, and Violet, the shrewd and elegant matriarch – Coughlan and Gemmell share a playful camaraderie that transcends the boundaries of their characters.
Perhaps it's their shared Irish heritage (Coughlan hails from Galway, Gemmell from London, but with Irish ancestry) or their mutual love for a good cuppa (because seriously, who doesn't bond over tea?). Whatever the reason, their friendship is a delightful reminder that even amidst the high-stakes drama of Regency-era London, true connections can blossom in the most unexpected of ways.
Friendship Goals: When Lady Whistledown Approves
One can only imagine what scandalous gossip Lady Whistledown would spin if she were to expose the real-life friendship between these two actresses. But for once, perhaps even the ton's most notorious gossip columnist would have to admit defeat.
After all, how can one possibly find fault with a friendship so genuine, so heartwarming, and so utterly charming?
"Dearest reader," Lady Whistledown might write, her quill trembling with uncharacteristic warmth, "it seems even in the cutthroat world of London society, true friendship prevails. And for that, we can all raise a glass...or perhaps a cup of tea."
