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Renée Zellweger Reflects on Bridget Jones as She Prepares for Fourth Film

More than 20 years have passed since Renée Zellweger first stepped into the shoes of Bridget Jones, and as she gears up for her fourth portrayal of the character, the actress shared how much of Bridget’s spirit has influenced her life. Speaking with Page Six during the premiere of Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy in New York, Zellweger discussed the traits she shares with the famously clumsy British journalist.

Though she recognizes the contrasts between her and Bridget—such as her current happy relationship with boyfriend Ant Anstead and her American roots—Zellweger finds resonance in some of Bridget’s most appealing traits. She mentioned, “All the clumsy things,” when asked about the connections between herself and her character, adding that she also embraces the “fake it ’til you make it” mindset.

Despite the character’s frequent comedic blunders, Zellweger expressed admiration for Bridget’s core attributes. She appreciates the character’s authenticity, optimism, humor, and inherent goodness. In a humorous nod to her own foibles, Zellweger recounted a recent “clumsy” incident, involving a microphone that slipped down her back during a television appearance, only to be saved by her skirt.

Regarding the “faking it ’til you make it” philosophy, Zellweger remarked, “It’s really just doing it, isn’t it? And not judging yourself as you do it. It’s just doing it, right?”

Returning to the role in Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy was unexpected for Zellweger, who stated she “never thought” she would portray Bridget again. Reflecting on the early days of the franchise, she noted that while filming the original 2001 movie, she was focused on not getting fired and ensuring her colleagues felt supported, rather than anticipating the massive success the series would eventually enjoy.

“I love how open she is. I love her physicality,” Zellweger expressed of Bridget, admiring how the character moves through life with a positive spirit. She cherishes Bridget’s authenticity and ability to defy conventional beauty and success standards. Zellweger appreciates how the character forges her own path, capturing the hearts of audiences with her relatable charm.

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