Renée Zellweger Shed ‘Real Tears’ Saying Farewell to Bridget Jones in “Mad About the Boy” (Exclusive)

Renée Zellweger Says Emotional Farewell to Bridget Jones in “Mad About the Boy”

Renée Zellweger, the beloved actress known for her portrayal of Bridget Jones, recently opened up about her poignant goodbye to the iconic character. The 55-year-old star revisited the role one last time in the final installment of the franchise, “Mad About the Boy.” At the New York City premiere on February 12, Zellweger admitted to shedding “real tears” as she bid adieu to Bridget Jones.

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE at the NYC premiere, Zellweger shared her sentiments about the emotional experience. She reflected on the strong bond she has built with the cast, including Colin Firth and Hugh Grant, over the past 25 years of bringing Bridget Jones to life on screen. The actress expressed a mix of joy and sadness during filming, encapsulating the bittersweet nature of saying farewell to a character so beloved by fans.

Zellweger conveyed that “Mad About the Boy” marks the end of Bridget’s journey on the big screen. When asked if there might be future installments, she affirmed that this would be the final chapter, echoing a similar sentiment expressed by her co-star Colin Firth. The actress looked elegant and understated at the premiere, donning a chic satin dress with a classic Bardot top and a flattering belted waist, complemented by closed-toe pumps.

Despite almost a decade passing since her last portrayal of Bridget, Zellweger disclosed that returning to the role felt like reconnecting with an old friend. She maintained Bridget’s trademark British accent throughout filming in London, citing familiarity and ease as reasons for sticking to the accent. The actress downplayed her approach, attributing it to a preference for consistency rather than method acting.

In this final installment, Bridget Jones navigates life after the loss of her husband Mark Darcy, played by Colin Firth. Zellweger emphasised the emotional depth of the storyline, noting how the script captured poignant moments that resonated deeply with her. The actress praised the script for its ability to surprise and move viewers, taking them on an unexpected emotional journey alongside Bridget.

Joining Zellweger in expressing emotions stirred by the film is Hugh Grant, who revealed that the screenplay for “Mad About the Boy” moved him to tears upon reading it. Grant commended the movie for its heartfelt storytelling and humour, underscoring the powerful impact of the narrative. The heartfelt responses from the cast hint at a touching and memorable conclusion to Bridget Jones’s on-screen journey.

As fans anticipate the release of “Mad About the Boy,” Renée Zellweger’s heartfelt portrayal of Bridget Jones promises to leave a lasting impression on audiences. The final chapter of the franchise is poised to be a moving tribute to a character cherished by many for her wit, vulnerability, and relatability. Zellweger’s emotional farewell to Bridget Jones encapsulates the enduring legacy of a character who has captured hearts around the world.