Bridgerton Season 3 brings a shakeup in the lives of our favorite characters in the Ton. Penelope Featherington starts to bloom into a more confident woman, while Colin Bridgerton realizes his feelings for a friend. However, the biggest surprise is Eloise Bridgerton’s new friendship with Cressida Cowper, the mean girl of the Ton. Their friendship opens up a new dimension for Cressida’s character, showing her in a more positive light and giving her depth beyond just being a bully.
Jessica Madsen, who plays Cressida Cowper, shares insights into her character’s development in Bridgerton Season 3. She talks about the backstory she and Nicola Coughlan built for Cressida and Penelope’s enmity, explaining how the dynamics between the characters have evolved over time. She also discusses why Cressida has bullied Penelope, highlighting a mix of jealousy and perceived threat as motivations behind her actions.
Eloise’s friendship with Cressida is a significant turning point for both characters, as Cressida takes risks and disobeys her parents to maintain their friendship. Madsen reflects on the impact of the connection between Eloise and Cressida, describing it as a safe space where they can learn from each other’s differences. She also acknowledges the potential for fans to interpret Cressida’s affections for Eloise as queer-coded, leaving the door open for various interpretations of their relationship.
In terms of Cressida’s romantic life, Madsen shares her thoughts on what Cressida’s happily ever after may look like. She explains that Cressida’s perception of love is shaped by her upbringing and societal expectations, leading her to pursue suitors for practical reasons rather than genuine romantic interest. However, Madsen hints at the possibility of Cressida finding love if she can form a deep connection similar to the one she shares with Eloise.
Madsen also discusses the elaborate costumes worn by Cressida in Bridgerton Season 3, particularly focusing on the oversized sleeves that add a dramatic flair to her character. She explains how the costumes reflect Cressida’s internal struggles and external power dynamics, highlighting the intricate design elements that enhance the character’s performance. Madsen expresses her admiration for costume designer John Glaser and the impact of the costumes on her portrayal of Cressida.
Overall, Madsen’s insights offer a deeper understanding of Cressida’s character journey in Bridgerton Season 3. By exploring the complexities of Cressida’s relationships, motivations, and personal growth, Madsen sheds light on the evolution of a character who was previously viewed as a one-dimensional antagonist. As fans continue to engage with the show and its characters, Madsen’s portrayal of Cressida adds depth and nuance to the Bridgerton universe, setting the stage for further exploration of themes related to identity, friendship, and love.
