How Did Julie Andrews Become the Voice of Lady Whistledown in 'Bridgerton?'

May 2024 ยท 3 minute read

Julie Andrews' "Bridgerton" character, Lady Whistledown, is the alter ego of Penelope Featherington. However, not all viewers may have guessed that Andrews is the voice behind the character.

When Julia Quinn's best-selling romance novels were announced to have Netflix adaptations through the series "Bridgerton," fans of the book had high expectations.

Following its premiere, "Bridgerton" became one of the most popular shows on the streaming platform, showcasing talented actors and actresses in the industry.

Julie Andrews smiles during a press conference on May 16, 2013 in Sydney, Australia. | Source: Getty Images

Phoebe Dynevor, Rege-Jean Page, and Nicola Coughlan are just some of the stars who partook in the series. Hollywood icon Julie Andrews also had a special role in "Bridgerton," although some viewers may not have recognized her immediately.

HOW DID JULIE ANDREWS GET HER ROLE AS THE NARRATOR?

Only avid fans of the actress recognized Andrews's voice as the narrator, Lady Whistledown, of the popular series. Lady Whistledown, the person who knows all the scandalous rumors and truths, keeps her identity secret until the finale. The showrunner, Chris Van Dusen, said:

"We offered her the part, sent her the scripts, not thinking anything would really come of it, but surprisingly, she read the scripts and fell in love with them."

Julie Andrews during the NFT to promote the launch of "The Sound Of Music" 40th Anniversary Collector's Edition DVD, on November 28, 2005 in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Unlike the other cast members, "The Sound of Music" star did not have to travel overseas to fulfill her role. Van Dusen added:

"We did all of our sessions virtually with her. I was in Los Angeles, and we were able to do it over Zoom. She was so fun to work with. Everything that you think Julie Andrews is, she is."

He revealed how much fun writing the script for Lady Whistledown was because her character can say the most "scathing" and "insulting" things. "They're not typical things that you would think that would be coming out of Julie Andrews's mouth," he added.

Lady Whistledown is a witty gossip columnist who leaves her articles anonymously. She is also Eloise's best friend, who is in love with Colin Bridgerton.

WHAT DID JULIE ANDREWS SAY ABOUT HER ROLE IN "BRIDGERTON?"

Andrews's character is undoubtedly an interesting woman, who the actress described as "sharp-tongued." The "Princess Diaries" star said:

"[She is] a tartar, a bit of a naughty woman."

Although she doesn't really appear on screen, Andrews sees her character as the instigator of the drama. Through her columns, Lady Whistledown can control the reactions of those around her and drive the chaos. She said:

"I can make or break anybody, it seems, if I wish."

Lady Whistledown's identity is later revealed as Penelope Featherington (Nicole Coughlan), the main character for the highly-anticipated Season 3. Penelope's love story with Colin will be focused on in the series, as well as his discovery of her alter ego.

Although their relationship was unstable and trust issues came out, the book ended with the couple tying the knot. However, only time can tell if the same ending will be observed in the series.

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