Nicola Coughlan, who stars in the hit Netflix show "Bridgerton", has spoken out about the need for more complex female roles in the entertainment industry. In an interview with E! News, Coughlan highlighted the importance of portraying women as multi-dimensional characters with depth and nuance.

Coughlan, who plays Penelope Featherington in the regency romance series, expressed her desire to see more female characters who break away from traditional stereotypes and expectations. She believes that it is crucial for women to be represented in a way that reflects the complexity and diversity of their experiences.

Speaking about her own character, Coughlan emphasized how Penelope Featherington is not just a one-dimensional ingenue, but a complex young woman with her own desires, motivations, and struggles. She emphasized that portraying characters like Penelope, who defy expectations and challenge societal norms, is essential for promoting inclusivity and empowering women.

The actress expressed her hope that "Bridgerton" will inspire other creators to develop more multidimensional female characters in the future.

She believes that doing so will not only make for more compelling storytelling but also provide greater opportunities for actresses to showcase their talent and contribute to a more inclusive industry.

Coughlan's call for complex female roles aligns with the wider conversation around representation and diversity in the entertainment industry. Many have criticized the lack of well-rounded female characters, often relegated to supporting or one-dimensional roles. This has led to a demand for more authentic and diverse portrayals of women that reflect the multitude of experiences and identities they possess.

The success of "Bridgerton" and its diverse cast has been hailed as a step in the right direction for the industry. The show, which has become a global sensation, has been praised for its inclusive casting, storyline, and complex female characters. It has challenged stereotypes and conventions, presenting a refreshing and empowering take on regency-era romance.

Nicola Coughlan's advocacy for complex female roles adds to the growing chorus of voices pushing for greater inclusivity and representation onscreen. By highlighting the need for more multidimensional characters, she is contributing to the broader conversation about the types of roles available to women in the entertainment industry. It is hoped that her words will inspire both creators and audiences to demand and appreciate more diverse and complex female characters in future projects.