Leo Woodall’s mum had an unexpected reaction when he landed a sexy role in the latest film instalment of the popular ‘Bridget Jones’ series. The British actor, who was just four years old when the original ‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’ hit the screens in 2001, shared with PEOPLE how his mother was taken aback when she learned about his role in ‘Mad About the Boy,’ now available for streaming on Peacock. Despite the initial surprise, Woodall revealed that his family took it all in good humour. His character, Roxster, is Bridget’s much younger love interest in the film. As he recounts, “She’d been a fan of the original, so she was so excited when I got cast in this. But she was also quite startled when I told her what the role would be.”
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In the movie, Woodall portrays Roxster, a park ranger and student, who crosses paths with Bridget while she is at the park with her two children. Their encounter sparks a passionate summer romance, breathing new life into Bridget after years of mourning her late husband, Mark Darcy, played by Colin Firth. Woodall reminisced about growing up amidst the cultural phenomenon of the Bridget Jones universe, acknowledging its significant impact on audiences. He cherished the opportunity to be part of such a cherished and iconic franchise, highlighting the special nature of being involved in such a project.
The actor, who gained recognition after his appearance on The White Lotus season 2, expressed the vulnerabilities that come with playing a heartthrob on screen. Woodall stated that taking on such roles can leave one feeling exposed and vulnerable. While acknowledging the pressure of embodying a certain image, he emphasised his attraction to the script of ‘Mad About the Boy’ and the overall beauty of the storytelling. Woodall’s focus was on the quality of the narrative and the chance to be part of a project like ‘Bridget Jones,’ rather than simply portraying a stereotypical ‘boy toy’ character.
As he delved into his role in the film, Woodall shared his perspective on the character of Roxster and his connection to the script. Despite embodying the persona of a younger love interest, the actor’s commitment to the storyline and the depth of the character shone through. Woodall’s dedication to the project and his admiration for the Bridget Jones films underscored his immersion in the world of the beloved franchise. By approaching the role with sincerity and a genuine appreciation for the material, Woodall aimed to contribute meaningfully to the cinematic legacy of ‘Bridget Jones.’
Woodall’s journey from a young fan of the Bridget Jones series to becoming a part of its latest chapter exemplifies the full circle moments that actors often experience in their careers. The actor’s candid reflections on the challenges and rewards of portraying a romantic lead offer a glimpse into the complexities of bringing such characters to life on screen. With ‘Mad About the Boy’ adding a new dimension to the beloved story of Bridget Jones, Woodall’s portrayal of Roxster adds depth and intrigue to the narrative, captivating audiences with his talent and dedication to his craft.