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Kelly Rissman
US News Reporter
Bridgerton has announced the actor who will play Benedict Bridgerton’s love interest in the fourth series of the show.
Yerin Ha, 29, who is best known for playing Kwan Ha in Halo and will appear in the forthcoming Dune: Prophecy series, will take on the role of Sophie Baek for the regency drama’s latest season about the love life of second-oldest Bridgerton brother, played by Luke Thompson.
Sophie is a victim of “tragic events” and has been forced to spend much of her life working as a maid for the most demanding employer in the ton. However, her circumstances “drastically change” when she disguises herself as a debutante to attend Violet Bridgerton’s masquerade ball.
Ha was announced as part of the Bridgerton cast on social media on Wednesday (11 September). “Dearest Gentle Reader, as preparations for the next social season are almost underway, we request a warm welcome to the newest member of the Ton,” the announcement read.
“Presenting Yerin Ha as Sophie in Bridgerton Season 4!”
In previous seasons of Bridgerton, Benedict has shown little interest in marriage. However, his opinions quickly change when he meets Sophie, disguised in a silver gown, at the masquerade ball.
Ha, a Korean actress from Australia, told Tudum Benedict’s love interest was called Sophie Beckett in Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton book series but the character was given a Korean surname out of respect for her culture.
“A name is the first bit of identity that you share with the world, and that’s why changing a name can be so powerful,” she said. “To make Sophie’s name fit someone who looks like me is really empowering. All credit to Jess Brownell, our showrunner.”
“It’s a really nice way for me to feel like the role is fit for me, rather than me having to fit a certain mold. It’s amazing what it can do just in a psychological sense. So it means a lot that Jess did that for me.”
Of her initial interest in the role, Ha added: “What drew me to Sophie was that she immediately has obstacles -- something that she constantly has to overcome. Whether it’s this battle around social status or trying to hide her feelings from Benedict."
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Benedict was last seen in series three exploring a relationship with Lady Tilley Arnold (Hannah New) and Paul Suarez (Lucas Aurelio).
Ahead of taking on the lead role in the forthcoming Bridgerton season, Thompson said of his character: “Benedict has always been a little lost — or free depending on the way you want to look at it. But now he’s trying to find something a bit more solid in himself.”
Bridgerton creator Shonda Rhymes added: “He’s a charming man who’s trying to find his way. He’s very delightful and funny. I’m excited for everybody to watch him.”
Netflix is yet to confirm a release date for Bridgerton season four.
