Simone Ashley and Hero Fiennes Tiffin are stepping into the spotlight together in the new film Picture This, and while the project has its own charm, the two stars can’t escape the shadows of the massive franchises that catapulted them into global fame — Bridgerton for Ashley and the After series for Tiffin.
For Ashley, who became a household name as Kate Sharma in Season 2 of Netflix’s Bridgerton, transitioning into her latest role is both thrilling and daunting. She admits that the cultural impact of Bridgerton — and the intense fandom surrounding it — set the bar high for any future projects. “It’s always a little intimidating,” Ashley told reporters during the press tour. “But what excites me is exploring characters who are completely different, and Picture This gives me that opportunity.”
Meanwhile, Hero Fiennes Tiffin is no stranger to carrying the weight of a passionate fan base. His portrayal of Hardin Scott in the After films cemented his status as a heartthrob, but it also created expectations for him to continually embody that same brooding, romantic persona. With Picture This, Tiffin is eager to show audiences another side of his acting range. “Hardin will always be a part of my career, but I don’t want it to define me,” he said. “This role is refreshing — it’s lighter, it’s different, and it challenges me in new ways.”
The chemistry between Ashley and Tiffin, both on and off-screen, has already sparked buzz among fans. Early clips showcase their playful rapport, a stark contrast to the heavier, tension-filled romances of Bridgerton and After. Director Nitesh Tiwari, known for blending heartfelt storytelling with relatable humor, noted that the pair brought a natural synergy to the set. “They didn’t need to manufacture chemistry,” he shared. “It was there from the start.”
Still, stepping out of the shadows of two beloved franchises isn’t without its challenges. Both Ashley and Tiffin acknowledged the pressure of comparisons but expressed hope that Picture This will carve out its own legacy. “It’s about telling a story that feels real and relatable,” Ashley explained. “If audiences connect with it the way they did with our past projects, that’s the biggest success.”
As anticipation builds, industry insiders are already speculating that Picture This could become the next big romantic film to capture global audiences. With Ashley’s elegance, Tiffin’s magnetism, and a storyline that promises laughter, heart, and authenticity, the film seems poised to resonate with fans old and new.
For now, both stars remain focused on embracing this fresh chapter. As Tiffin put it, “Every role is a chance to grow. Picture This isn’t about living up to what came before — it’s about creating something new.”
