Nicola Coughlan, best known for her steamy role as Penelope Featherington in Netflix’s Bridgerton, is trading Regency ballrooms for the TARDIS in her upcoming appearance on Doctor Who. The 37-year-old actress couldn’t help but poke fun at her career shift, joking about finally landing a “family-friendly” gig.
In an interview with Radio Times, Coughlan shared her excitement about joining the long-running sci-fi series:
“Very few things I do are actually family-friendly, so it’s really lovely to have one! I’m getting to sit down with my family at Christmas to watch it.”
Her role in Doctor Who marks a stark departure from her provocative scenes in Bridgerton, where her character’s romance with Colin Bridgerton kept audiences buzzing. Now, she’s stepping into a new universe, starring alongside Ncuti Gatwa, who debuts as the latest Doctor in the Christmas special.
Coughlan admitted she didn’t grow up watching the BBC classic due to limited TV access in Ireland, but she was eager to take on the role:
“When they asked me, I was super-keen. But when I tried to do the research, I thought, ‘Oh my God… this is a full universe!’”
While details of her character remain under wraps, fans have already had a sneak peek at Coughlan in a modern red jacket and matching hat—miles away from Penelope Featherington’s elaborate gowns. Showrunner Russell T. Davies praised her energy, saying:
“Nicola has lit up the set and brought so much joy. From Derry Girls, via Bridgerton, to the TARDIS—it’s the trip of a lifetime.”
Coughlan’s move into the Doctor Who universe caps off a whirlwind year that included starring roles in Barbie alongside Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, and a global Bridgerton press tour spanning eight countries.
Fans eagerly await her Doctor Who debut, though it’s yet to be confirmed if her character will stick around beyond the holiday special. Regardless, Coughlan’s charm and versatility promise to delight both Whovians and newcomers alike.
