Okay, Bridgerton fans, how are we feeling right now? A little bit bamboozled? Maybe a tad embarrassed? Because we're all guilty of missing a major clue about Penelope Featherington's double life as Lady Whistledown, and it was right there in the very first scene!
For those who haven't yet succumbed to the allure of empire waistlines and scandalous gossip (seriously, what are you waiting for?), Bridgerton is Netflix's smash hit period drama that chronicles the romantic entanglements of London's elite during the Regency era.
At the heart of it all is the enigmatic Lady Whistledown, an anonymous writer whose scathing social commentary and juicy gossip hold the power to make or break reputations.
While viewers were left in suspense until the season one finale, it turns out Penelope, the unassuming wallflower, dropped a massive hint about her secret identity in her very first appearance. And no, we're not talking about subtly raised eyebrows or knowing glances.
Nicola Coughlan, the actress who brings Penelope's wit and vulnerability to life, recently took to Twitter to share the Easter egg that had everyone kicking themselves.
"When I filmed Penelope's first scene I chose a prop," she tweeted, revealing that the "massive massive feather" was a deliberate choice, meant to resemble a quill.
And there it was, plain as day: in the opening scene of the series, as carriages rumble through the bustling London streets, Penelope can be seen clutching a large yellow feather like a writer gripping their pen.
This clever reveal adds another layer to Penelope's already complex character. She's not just the timid girl content to observe from the sidelines. She's a cunning observer, using her underestimated position to gather information and wield her quill (or feather) with sharp wit and precision.
Even the show's hair and makeup designer, Marc Pilcher, hinted at Penelope's hidden depths. He explained to Glamour that he chose curls to give her a youthful, unassuming look that belied her true nature: "On the surface, she's a vulnerable character, but we know deep down that isn't the case.
So there you have it, folks. Proof that Bridgerton isn't just a feast for the eyes with its lavish costumes and swoon-worthy romances, but also a treasure trove of hidden clues and Easter eggs for eagle-eyed viewers. Now, if you'll excuse us, we're off to rewatch the entire series for any details we might have missed. Who knows what other secrets lie hidden beneath those elaborate updos and silver-tongued whispers?
