Nicola Coughlan Explains Why Trolls Think Her Waist Was ‘Photoshopped’ In Bridgerton

The latest season of Netflix’s royal romance drama, Bridgerton, has left audiences on the edge of their seats from the very first episode. Bridgerton season 3, part 1, centres entirely on the blossoming romance between Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) and Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton). With Colin’s proposal to Penelope concluding the first part, fans are eagerly anticipating part 2 to see their journey as an engaged couple. While the show has received significant praise and adoration from its audience, it has also faced its share of criticism.

Nicola Coughlan, who has been donning many waist-whittling looks for her role as Penelope Featherington, had been subjected to trolling over claims that her waist was “photoshopped.” Now, keeping her record straight, the actress has denied such accusations.

In a conversation with People, Nicola opened up about the recent claims about her appearance on Bridgerton. “I saw some trolls. They were like, ‘They photoshopped your waist,’ and I was like, ‘No, they did not,” she said, further explaining that the costumes had to do with the historical drama’s Regency era.

She also shared how wearing corsets has become so normal for her that tight-fitting garments look like second nature. “I think if you wear corsetry for long enough, your body really molds to it. Sometimes they come in a fitting for a fashion designer and they put a corset on me, and I’m like, ‘Oh, you can go tight,’ and they go, ‘What do you mean?’ I’m like, ‘My body now will go whew,” she said.

Notably, Coughlan has even rocked several types of corsets while promoting her show.

On the other hand, Luke Newton, best known as Colin Bridgerton in the series, also spoke about his wardrobe struggles. Stating that he does not need to wear a corset or heels, he always wants to be in the most comfortable outfit after a shoot. “I don’t wear a corset; I don’t wear heels, but it really does change your posture, which feels good and really helps with the character. But then, as soon as I’m off set, I want to be in the most comfortable outfit,” he shared.

Part 1 of Bridgerton season 3 is streaming on Netflix, while part 2 is set to release on June 13, 2024.