While we assumed Nicola Coughlan would return to Bridgerton for season 5, she did confirm she won’t be in it much.
The 39-year-old actress has portrayed Penelope Bridgerton – formerly Penelope Featherington – on the show since season one.
Her character’s love story with Colin Bridgerton was the focus for season three, but now that there’s a “new” Lady Whistledown, there were questions about how much Penelope would be featured going forward.
“Season five had started filming already, so I won’t be in it very much,” Nicola confirmed in April 2026 on the “Dish” podcast. “I’m always happy to come back. I think it’s a genuinely lovely job to come back to.”
The fifth season of Bridgerton spotlights introverted middle daughter Francesca (Hannah Dodd). Two years after losing her beloved husband John, Fran decides to reenter the marriage mart for practical reasons. But when John’s cousin Michaela (Masali Baduza) returns to London to tend to the Kilmartin estate, Fran’s complicated feelings will have her questioning whether to stick to her pragmatic intentions or pursue her inner passions. There’s no release date at this time, but it is currently in production.
Find out which star is exiting Bridgerton ahead of season 5.
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