Simon Ashley, who plays Kate Bridgerton in Netflix’s hit show *Bridgerton*, recently defended his co-star Nicola Coughlan from online critics who were body-shaming her. They targeted Coughlan because of her role as Penelope Featherington in the upcoming season, especially focusing on her character’s romantic storyline.

At a TV festival in Monte-Carlo, Ashley addressed these criticisms, acknowledging that there will always be haters but emphasizing how strong and positive Coughlan is. He fully supported her career and praised her as someone who inspires confidence.

Ashley continued to commend Coughlan’s personal and professional growth, describing her as a radiant and intelligent woman who has been spreading joy and empowerment, especially among women worldwide.

He highlighted her kindness as a universally relatable quality, underscoring her positive impact beyond her acting roles. Ashley’s comments underscored a deep admiration for Coughlan, reflecting not just professional respect but also personal inspiration drawn from her demeanor and achievements.

Meanwhile, Coughlan herself addressed rumors about her appearance in *Bridgerton* season three, particularly regarding accusations of her waist being photoshopped. She clarified that her figure was not digitally altered, attributing her silhouette to the prolonged use of corsetry, which was common in the Regency-era costumes worn on the show.

Coughlan humorously recounted instances where fashion designers were surprised by her ability to wear tightly fitted corsets, highlighting how her body has adapted to the garments over time.

In the face of online trolls, Coughlan’s response was straightforward and unapologetic, asserting the authenticity of her appearance and emphasizing the practicalities of costume design in creating the show’s aesthetic. Her candid remarks resonated with fans and supporters, reinforcing her confidence and resilience in navigating public scrutiny while maintaining a positive and empowering message for her audience.

Both Ashley and Coughlan have emerged as advocates against body-shaming and online negativity, using their platforms to promote self-acceptance and appreciation. Their actions exemplify solidarity within the entertainment industry and encourage a culture of respect and inclusivity, particularly regarding diverse body types and personal confidence.