Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan takes the lead in BBC’s boldest series yet

Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan joins BBC’s acclaimed series ‘I Am…’, writing and starring in her own episode.

Nicola Coughlan is stepping into a deeply personal spotlight as she joins BBC’s critically acclaimed anthology series I Am…, known for giving actresses creative control over their characters and stories. The Bridgerton and Derry Girls star will write and headline her own standalone episode, continuing the series' tradition of emotionally intense, women-led narratives.

First launched in 2019, I Am… features a unique format where each episode is co-written by the lead actress and centres exclusively on her character's inner world. Previous seasons have seen powerhouse performances from Kate Winslet, Letitia Wright and Gemma Chan. Winslet even took home a BAFTA for her deeply affecting role, a precedent that places Coughlan in esteemed company.

This casting marks another milestone in Coughlan's streak of women-driven projects. While she gained mainstream attention as the witty Penelope Featherington in Netflix’s Bridgerton, her sharp comedic turn in Derry Girls and appearance in Barbie have showcased her versatility. Her upcoming I Am… role promises a more intimate and dramatic shift, one shaped by her own voice.

Joining her in the upcoming season is Joe Cole, best known for playing John Shelby in Peaky Blinders. Cole has also earned acclaim in Gangs of London, bringing gritty intensity to every role. Their addition signals a high-calibre season ahead.

The series is the brainchild of Dominic Savage, who both created and writes it. Known for his emotionally raw storytelling, Savage has long championed narratives that blur the line between fiction and lived experience. The new season will once again be produced by Krishnendu Majumdar and backed by Me+You Productions.

As anticipation builds, Coughlan's involvement already has fans curious about the story she’ll choose to tell. With the actress helping shape her own narrative, expectations are high for something fearless and resonant.