Did you watch this character development in Season 3 of "Bridgerton"?

Bridgerton returns for its third season, focusing on the romantic storyline between two characters who have been part of the show from the beginning but never in the lead roles. After previous seasons centered around other Bridgerton siblings and their suitors, fans will see more of Colin Bridgerton and Penelope Featherington, who have known each other for years. The new season promises to deliver a heartfelt love story that many viewers can relate to, as secrets are revealed and feelings that have been hiding in the background finally come to light. Bridgerton continues entertaining audiences with its signature blend of romance, drama, and wit set in 19th century London high society.

Fans have eagerly anticipated seeing Colin and Penelope's relationship take center stage in the new season. Known affectionately by "Polin" shippers, their storyline deviates from the order of events in the original Bridgerton novels. Viewers have watched Penelope secretly harbor feelings for Colin since the beginning of the series. At the end of Season 2, tensions arose between the longtime friends after Penelope overheard Colin make insensitive remarks, hurting her feelings and setting the stage for emotional development in their relationship to unfold in the new season. Fans have been waiting for a resolution to Colin and Penelope's will-they-or-won't-they dynamic, and Season 3 promises to deliver insight into how their connection evolves from previous misunderstandings.

The new season follows Colin and Penelope's relationship evolving from friendship to romance. Colin returns from travels abroad seeking a change, while Penelope is determined to find a husband and gain independence from her family. 

She undergoes a transformation in appearance and confidence. Unexpectedly, Colin takes on a mentorship role to help Penelope navigate society and courtship. This gains her attention from other suitors, sparking jealousy in Colin as he questions if friendship can truly be the foundation for love. Fans have eagerly awaited to see how these longtime friends address their feelings for each other after past misunderstandings. The actors emphasize the characters must undergo personal growth and self-discovery to reach self-acceptance before finding love. Viewers will witness Colin and Penelope's journey of self-reflection and coming to terms with their bond deepening into something more.

The actors shared that taking on lead roles felt like a natural progression of their characters' storylines. Their existing personal friendship and open communication allowed them to confidently bring Colin and Penelope's developing chemistry to life. 

While nervous initially, filming romantic scenes became an engaging process thanks to the level of comfort and trust between the performers. Both praised the beauty of seeing the evolving relationship brought to the screen. However, they refrained from offering modern dating advice, emphasizing instead that all people - including their fictional characters - are human with normal experiences of relationships, love, and heartbreak. The key is keeping perspective and not building unreasonable expectations of others. Overall, Coughlan and Newton felt honored to move their characters' journey forward in a meaningful way for fans of the series.