The steamy romance between Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton in season 3 of Netflix's hit show, Bridgerton, has set hearts aflutter. But the on-screen sizzle has sparked a burning question off-screen: are actors Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton, who play the beloved characters, also an item in real life?
A Friendship Ignited On Set
Their undeniable chemistry, evident both on and off the screen, has fueled fervent speculation amongst the show's devoted fanbase. The pair are frequently seen giggling together in interviews, finishing each other’s sentences, and playfully teasing one another on social media. It’s no wonder fans are left wondering if there's more to their connection than meets the eye.
“We think it's really sweet," Nicola laughed during an interview with Extra at the New York City premiere of Bridgerton season 3, addressing the rampant dating rumors.
“I think because we truly love each other," she added, her eyes sparkling with genuine affection.
Describing Luke as "a really special person in my life," she confessed, “I'll never get to do something like this again, on this scale. It's so nice having such a lovely friend that I can do all this with.
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While Nicola’s words carefully sidestep confirming a romantic relationship, her heartfelt declaration of their bond speaks volumes. Fans are left to decipher the true nature of their connection, clinging to the hope that their on-screen chemistry might translate into a real-life love story.
From Friends to Lovers on Screen, But What About Off Screen?
The undeniable connection between Nicola and Luke is something they both readily acknowledge.
In an interview with Variety, Luke gushed about their shared passion for storytelling. “We came into this show, not knowing what it was going to be, not knowing the scale of it, and then we've lived that journey," he shared. “We’re so obsessed with storytelling. And we’re really passionate about it, and we both gave as much as each other throughout this whole experience. And it just felt like something that we shared, and you won’t ever really get that experience again, so it feels very special.
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Nicola echoes his sentiments, praising Luke's genuine nature and dedication to their craft. "He’s such a kind, genuine person. What you see is what you get, and I always really admire that in people,” she confided in the same interview. “Actors, sometimes when doing a thing, they don’t care about they’re like, ‘I don’t need to be here.’ But he really wants to do this show and he loves it as much as I do.
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Fanning the Flames: The Internet Weighs In
Nicola and Luke’s close bond hasn’t gone unnoticed by eagle-eyed fans. Their affectionate interactions, captured in behind-the-scenes clips and interviews, have only fueled the dating rumors. In one particular video for British Vogue, Nicola playfully teases Luke about his newfound heartthrob status.
“You’re gonna be the internet’s boyfriend, but you were my fake boyfriend first—don’t forget it!” she jokes, sending fans into a frenzy.
“This makes me want them to be together in real life…stopppppp,” one fan commented, echoing the sentiments of many. Another fan, acknowledging the intense pressure of the spotlight, shared, “Yeah, even if they were dating, I don’t blame them for denying it. Way too much pressure from fans and press.
Whatever they have, I hope they have it forever. They are truly a joy to watch on and off camera.”
The Verdict: Love Story or Just Friends?
While both Nicola and Luke remain tight-lipped about their relationship status, their undeniable bond is clear for all to see. Whether they are just good friends or harboring secret feelings for one another, their connection adds an extra layer of intrigue to their on-screen romance.
And while fans eagerly await confirmation of their relationship status, one thing is certain: the undeniable chemistry between Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton is something truly special, both on and off the screen.
