Katie Leung, known to millions as Cho Chang from the Harry Potter films, found a surprising sense of belonging within the opulent world of Bridgerton. Stepping into the role of Lady Araminta Gun, a determined mother navigating the marriage mart of Regency London, she discovered a creative environment profoundly different from her earlier experiences.
Lady Araminta Gun is a woman with a mission: to secure advantageous matches for her two daughters. However, her ambitions are complicated by Sophie, her stepdaughter, relegated to the role of a servant. A chance encounter at a masquerade ball, with the captivating Benedict Bridgerton, threatens to unravel Gun’s carefully laid plans.
Leung described feeling “blessed” to join the Netflix series, noting a newfound confidence that comes with age and experience. While acknowledging the scale of Bridgerton, she felt less intimidated than she might have during her Harry Potter days, approaching the role with a calm assurance.
Beyond the surface of a seemingly villainous stepmother, Leung was drawn to the complexity of Lady Araminta. She appreciated the opportunity to portray a character where her ethnicity wasn’t a defining factor, a refreshing change that allowed her to focus solely on the nuances of the role.
For Leung, the heart of the character lay in the family dynamic – or lack thereof. She spoke passionately about the importance of seeing more stories that explore these relationships, particularly those featuring diverse families, believing it’s a crucial step forward in representation.
What truly resonated with Leung was the palpable sense of inclusivity woven throughout Bridgerton, both on and off screen. This commitment to diversity created a uniquely safe space for her as an actor, allowing her to fully immerse herself in the character and the world.
Leung believes that continued, consistent representation is the key to normalizing diversity. While acknowledging the current scrutiny surrounding the issue, she expressed hope that the more diverse stories are told, the less of a focal point diversity itself will become.
Reflecting on her own journey, Leung confessed that seeing more stories centered around Asian women during her formative years would have been profoundly impactful. This personal connection fueled her enthusiasm for contributing to a show that actively challenges traditional narratives.
Bridgerton’s fourth season is set to unfold in two parts, promising a captivating blend of romance, intrigue, and societal commentary. The first installment arrives on January 21st, with the second following on February 26th.
