Global rom-com icon Bridget Jones has been permanently honoured in the heart of London's Leicester Square with a brand new statue, unveiled by the actress who brought her to life, Renée Zellweger.
A Star-Studded Celebration
The memorable event on Monday saw the American star, 56, who portrayed the beloved British character across all four films, joined by author Helen Fielding, 67, and co-stars from the upcoming Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy. The gathering was a heartfelt tribute to the hapless, diary-keeping heroine who won the affection of audiences worldwide.
Zellweger cut a glamorous figure in an elegant black ensemble, a stark contrast to Bridget's famously relatable style. She was flanked by two of Bridget's love interests from the new film: Chiwetel Ejiofor, who plays her children's teacher Scott, and Leo Woodall, who stars as the toyboy Roxster. The trio were seen holding hands, sharing in the celebration of their colleague's enduring legacy.
The Iconic Statue Revealed
Hosted by Sally Phillips, who plays Bridget's best friend Shazzer, the event revealed the bronze statue depicting Bridget in one of her trademark 'off-sick' mini skirts, clutching her diary and a pen. The statue captures the very essence of the character—emotionally honest, slightly messy, and utterly human.
Author Helen Fielding, who first created Bridget for an anonymous newspaper column, shared a tender moment with Zellweger, who planted a kiss on her cheek. Fielding remarked to the BBC that it was 'wonderful to have Bridget, who started life so unassumingly... end up as a statue in Leicester Square' after three decades.
A Lasting Cultural Impact
The conversation naturally turned to one of the franchise's most iconic moments: Bridget's large control knickers, which sparked a cultural phenomenon. Fielding even joked that the statue has 'Renée's head from the first movie' and features the character's famously flat stomach, hinting at the infamous 'mummy pants'.
The new film, Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy, set for release in 2025, follows Bridget and her two children as they navigate grief following the death of her husband, Mark Darcy. The statue's unveiling marks a significant milestone, cementing Bridget Jones's place in British popular culture alongside other celebrated figures in the square.
Reflecting on the character's lasting appeal, Fielding noted the increased pressure on young women today compared to Bridget's era, stating that 'with social media... they have so many images of perfection thrown at them'. The statue stands as a permanent tribute to embracing one's authentic, imperfect self.
