Performing intimate scenes comes easier with a close friend, according to Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan. 

The first part of Bridgerton’s third season has amassed 45 million viewers in the first four days of release – the biggest opening numbers for the show. 

Part two comes out next week, exploring the long-awaited romance between Colin Bridgerton and Penelope Featherington – and whether Penelope’s secret identity as gossip columnist Lady Whistledown will be revealed. 

Speaking on Newstalk Breakfast today, Bridgerton stars Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton let listeners know what they can expect from this season’s final four episodes. 

“There’s even more obstacles now,” Luke said. “They’re engaged now, the obstacle is obviously the Whistledown secret. 

“But Jess [Bowell] and her writing team have just beautifully put in this script that takes us everywhere.” 

Bridgerton. (L to R) Nicola Coughlan as Penelope Featherington, Luke Newton as Colin Bridgerton in episode 302 of Bridgerton. Cr. Liam Daniel/Netflix © 2023

The “split release” of the season’s episodes created more tension for viewers, according to Luke, as our characters end up in a “really exciting but dangerous place”. 

Nicola agreed, noting the “honeymoon period” between the romantic leads might not last long. 

“There’s this horrible underpinning that she’s got this huge secret that could blow everything up,” she said. 

Along with its dramatic romances, Bridgerton has also become known for its racy intimate scenes set to violin covers of pop songs. 

Bridgerton romances

Penelope and Colin had their own moment in a carriage and the end of this season’s first part – which Nicola said was less intimidating than expected. 

“In the lead-up in season two when we knew we’d lead season three, it was more nerve-wracking,” she said. 

“It's easier with a friend – well it depends on what kind of friend. 

“Luckily for us, it felt really easy and we had great trust in one another. 

Luke Newton and Nicola Coughlan attend the Special Screening of Netflix's Bridgerton Season 3 Part 2 at Light House Cinema in Dublin. Image: Andres Poveda/Netflix

“You’re set up before you even go into those things with intimacy coordinators, and we had a lot of say in those scenes and what we did.” 

Nicola and Luke were quick to squash rumours that they might be more than friends, however. 

“We're great friends,” Nicola said. “But we have a very unique relationship. 

“I don’t have a relationship with anyone in my life like I've had with Luke, and we will never have this experience again with anyone else.” 

You can catch up with the latest season of Bridgerton on Netflix, while season three part two comes out June 13th.