Nicola Coughlan has confirmed that Penelope Featherington will have a reduced role in Bridgerton season 5, appearing in fewer episodes as the show shifts focus to a new lead couple.
Speaking to E! News, Coughlan discussed balancing her work on Bridgerton with filming the new season of Only Murders in the Building. She described the arrangement as "the best of both worlds," adding: "I’m currently filming on Only Murders, but I still get to pop back to Bridgerton now and then and see everybody, and it’s just like coming home. You’re like, ‘Oh, hey guys, how you doing?'"
Penelope's reduced episodes and low-pressure role
Coughlan confirmed she will feature in less episodes of the show going forward. She said it is "so nice and low pressure" to no longer be a main character. The actress reflected on Penelope's journey, saying: "It’s bittersweet. I feel like, God, I had such an epic run. I think that's part of the beauty of that world is it keeps reinventing itself." She added: "Every season being a new story—it takes on a different guise."
After Penelope and Colin were the central couple in Bridgerton season 3, Penelope still played a major role in season 4. Following the revelation of her identity as Lady Whistledown, Penelope asked Queen Charlotte if she could step down from writing the scandal sheet. The season concluded with the Queen granting her wish, before someone else quickly and secretly took over the role.
Season 5 focus on Francesca and Michaela
Bridgerton season 5 is set to focus on Francesca and Michaela as the new main couple. A different character will take on the role of Lady Whistledown, though the new identity remains completely under wraps. It is unclear whether it is a character viewers already know or someone new stepping into the role. Fan theories have speculated about multiple characters, including Hyacinth Bridgerton, the Featherington housekeeper Mrs. Varley, and Alice Mondrich.
According to the source, the show's boss has confirmed that more spin-offs are "coming soon." Additionally, Phoebe Dynevor has revealed she has not been asked to return to the show.
What this means for Penelope's future
Coughlan's comments indicate that Penelope will remain part of the Bridgerton universe but in a supporting capacity. The actress described her reduced involvement as "so nice and low pressure," suggesting she is content with the character's transition away from the spotlight. The new season will continue the show's tradition of reinventing itself with each installment, as Coughlan noted: "Every season being a new story—it takes on a different guise."
