By G. Mudalige, Jadetimes Staff
G. Mudalige is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology & Innovation
Fans of the iconic Bridget Jones series are eagerly awaiting the release of the fourth film, Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy, set to premiere on Valentine’s Day 2024. Known for its mix of humor, romance, and awkward charm, this next installment promises to offer a fresh take. However, actor Hugh Grant, who is reprising his role as Daniel Cleaver, has given fans a heads-up: the new film is not just funny, but also "very, very sad."
In a recent appearance on The Graham Norton Show, Grant revealed that this new chapter in Bridget’s life will be far more somber than previous films. The actor, known for his witty roles in rom-com classics like Notting Hill and Four Weddings and a Funeral, shared that the film will strike a balance between humor and heartfelt tragedy. Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy is based on the 2013 novel by Helen Fielding, where fans rejoin Bridget in her 50s. Now a mother of two, Bridget is navigating life as a widow following the death of her beloved husband, Mark Darcy, played by Colin Firth in the earlier films. Though the production studio has not confirmed whether the film will follow the book's plot exactly, Grant’s comments suggest that Bridget’s new life as a single mother will be central to the story.
Hugh Grant’s character, Daniel Cleaver, is a familiar face to fans of the series. Known for being the charming yet devious womanizer, Daniel brought an entertaining rivalry with Mark Darcy throughout the first two films. Despite Grant’s absence from Bridget Jones’s Baby, he is set to make a surprising return in this latest installment. Grant admitted there was initially “no obvious role” for Daniel in the script, but the production team was determined to include him. After collaborating with producers to develop his character’s storyline, Grant revealed that they gave Daniel Cleaver more depth and a compelling narrative. “He’s in his 60s now,” Grant explained, noting that his character has evolved from the smooth-talking playboy of the past. The actor believes the script has successfully given Daniel a much-needed third dimension, making his return both realistic and impactful.
Helen Fielding, the author behind the Bridget Jones novels, drew inspiration from her own life for the emotional core of the new story. Grant shared that Fielding experienced the heartbreaking loss of her husband, an event that became the foundation for Bridget’s personal challenges in Mad About The Boy.
This real-life tragedy translates into Bridget’s grief and struggle as she raises her children alone while still maintaining her signature sense of humor. The mix of emotions is what fans can expect from the upcoming film—a blend of hilarious moments and poignant, bittersweet reflections on life and love.
Renée Zellweger will reprise her Oscar-nominated role as Bridget Jones, bringing back the awkward charm that audiences have loved since 2001’s Bridget Jones's Diary. Colin Firth will not return as Mark Darcy due to the character’s death, but Emma Thompson will reprise her role as Bridget’s obstetrician from Bridget Jones’s Baby. Additionally, new cast members include Chiwetel Ejiofor and Leo Woodall, with rumors suggesting Woodall will play Bridget’s younger love interest as she faces the challenges of dating once again.
Fans can anticipate a film that stays true to the heart of the Bridget Jones series while exploring deeper emotional territory. Hugh Grant, who describes the script as “brilliant,” promises audiences a memorable and moving experience.
