
This season of Bridgerton is the strongest yet, largely thanks to the compelling performance of its lead actress. She plays Sophie Baek, a kind-hearted housemaid with a hidden past, who captures the attention of one of the Bridgerton brothers. Unlike previous heroines, Sophie doesn’t come from the upper class, which brings a fresh dynamic to the show. While Benedict Bridgerton struggles with unrequited love, Sophie often lacks the power to express her own feelings due to her difficult circumstances – she’s reliant on her employers, mistreated by her stepmother, and faces threats from powerful men. The actress brilliantly conveys Sophie’s love, longing, and frustration through subtle expressions, making their romance believable despite the power imbalance. Her storyline isn’t focused on simply finding a husband; she deals with genuine, serious problems and maintains a strong sense of independence. When Benedict awkwardly proposes a scandalous arrangement, Sophie doesn’t overreact, because she understands his privileged background and isn’t expecting anything more.