Nicola Coughlan slams 'plus-size heroine' label after 'Bridgerton' season 3 nudity: 'It's insulting'

Nicola Coughlan, star of Bridgerton, has spoken out against the body-shaming comments directed at her after the release of the third season, where she features in nude scenes. The 37-year-old actress, who portrays Penelope Featherington in the popular Netflix series, expressed to TIME her frustration at being labeled a "plus-size heroine."

She finds this description not only reductive but also dismissive of her work as an actress. "Making it about how I look is reductive and boring," Coughlan remarked, highlighting the tendency to focus on her body rather than her talent and performance.

Coughlan further explained that her decision to feature nudity in Bridgerton season 3 was entirely her choice. She felt strongly about taking control of how her character was portrayed, and by doing so, she hoped to challenge the conversations surrounding her appearance. Despite receiving backlash for her decision, Coughlan shared that the experience was empowering. "I felt beautiful in the moment, and I drove it," she stated, noting how it served as a personal victory against the persistent discussions about her body. Instead of being defined by societal standards, Coughlan reclaimed her agency, making it clear that her worth as an actress extends far beyond her physical appearance.

Her bold move not only highlights her strength as an artist but also reflects a growing movement in Hollywood, where women are pushing back against outdated beauty standards and demanding recognition for their talent and hard work.