Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan has explained why her role in the Barbie movie is briefer than expected.
The actress was confirmed as a cast member in April when the Barbie posters dropped online, joining the likes of Simu Liu, Issa Rae and Sex Education stars Ncuti Gatwa and Emma Mackey in the Barbies and Kens line-up.
“This Barbie is a diplomat,” Nicola’s poster teased, with the actress sporting a red hairdo and a pink taffeta puff-sleeved dress for her Barbie character.
Fans going to see the film will soon learn that the reality of Nicola’s Barbie role is very much a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment.
Her role’s briefness may be a blow for Derry Girls fans who were looking forward to seeing her on the big screen.
However, Nicola has explained why her part was so short: scheduling conflicts.
The Bridgerton star uploaded an Instagram post on July 13, reflecting on her experience after the Barbie movie’s London premiere.
Nicola shared her delight at learning she’d bagged a role after her audition — a big feat considering she’s “obsessed” with director Greta Gerwig.
“When I found out she wanted to have me be part of @barbiethemovie, and then that I probably wouldn’t be able to make it work because of my schedule I was firstly elated and quickly heartbroken,” Nicola explained.
“So when I was asked if I wanted to pop into Barbieland even briefly my answer was an immediate, and very emphatic yes.”
Nicola didn’t clarify what project she was working on that led to the filming clash, but she’s certainly had a busy schedule recently.
The actress was filming scenes for Bridgerton season 3 up until March this year, after filming kicked off in July 2022.
