At a Glance
- Yerin Ha, 28, joins Bridgerton season 4 as Sophie Baek, a love interest for Benedict Bridgerton.
- The season splits into two parts: Part 1 premieres on January 29 and Part 2 follows on February 26.
- The actress shares her whirlwind audition, a loopy Zoom chemistry read, and her journey to self-acceptance.
Why it matters: The new season brings fresh romance to the hit Netflix series and offers insight into the casting process behind a global phenomenon.
Yerin Ha, 28, has just landed the role of Sophie Baek in Bridgerton season 4, and she’s been candid about the whirlwind that led to her casting, the nerves of a Zoom chemistry read, and her growing confidence in body image. With Part 1 of the season premiering on January 29 and Part 2 following on February 26, the actress gives fans a behind-the-scenes look at the process that turns a script into a star.
The Audition Journey
Within 24 hours of her agent sending the request, Ha recorded an audition tape in a British accent. She was unsure of her accent and felt the pressure to perform quickly. The tape was submitted promptly, but the real test came next.
Zoom Chemistry Read
At 11 p.m. local time from Korea, Ha logged onto a Zoom call with Luke Thompson, 37, to read a scene. She described the moment as ‘loopy,’ noting the delay and shaky internet connection. Thompson remembered feeling a genuine connection despite the technical hiccups and said he just wanted to get straight into the scene.
Reading the Book
After being cast, Ha read An Offer from a Gentleman, the book that follows Benedict’s love story, in one sitting. The story’s intimacy scenes made her nervous, and she admitted her first thought was ‘Oh no, the intimacy scenes.’ Understanding the source material helped her anticipate the emotional beats of her character.
Body Image and Self-Love
Ha talks openly about body image challenges. She says, ‘Being a woman in this industry, it’s a massive thing. People think that they have the right to talk about your body, how you look, and your external appearance,’ she said. She has dealt with shame for a very long time and is still working through it. Despite the initial intimidation, she credits Bridgerton and Sophie with teaching her ‘a lot about self-love and self-acceptance.’
Character Overview
Sophie Baek, portrayed by Yerin Ha, is introduced at a masquerade ball where she meets Benedict Bridgerton. Benedict, played by Luke Thompson, is the series’ central male lead. The two characters’ romance forms the core of season 4’s narrative.
Show Background
Bridgerton is a hit Netflix series that blends period romance with contemporary storytelling. The fourth season continues the story of the Bridgerton family. Fans have followed the series for its lavish production and intricate plotlines.
Production Notes
The fourth season was filmed during the pandemic, requiring careful scheduling and safety protocols. Production teams coordinated remotely for some scenes, especially during the early stages of the series. The show’s creators maintained the original aesthetic while adapting to new filming conditions.
Behind the Scenes
Ha recalled feeling ‘loopy’ during the Zoom call, a sentiment echoed by Thompson. The two actors navigated technical delays while trying to capture genuine chemistry. Their quick connection set the tone for future scenes.
Release Strategy
Netflix chose a two-part release to sustain audience interest over a month. Part 1 debuted on January 29, while Part 2 followed on February 26. This approach mirrors the company’s strategy for other popular series.
Audience Anticipation
Viewers have expressed excitement about the new love story and the fresh dynamics between characters. Social media buzz highlights curiosity about Sophie’s role in the Bridgerton family. Fans are also eager to see how the season will address contemporary themes.
Personal Growth
Ha reflects on how the role has helped her confront long-standing body image issues. She credits the character’s journey with boosting her confidence on set. The experience has also influenced her approach to future roles.
Social Media Reaction
Fans on platforms like Twitter and Instagram have praised Ha’s performance and authenticity. Comments frequently mention her honest discussion of self-acceptance. The hashtag #BridgertonSophie has trended during the season’s premiere.
What to Watch For
Expect Sophie to navigate both romance and personal discovery in equal measure. The series will explore how her background intersects with the Bridgerton family’s legacy. Key moments include the masquerade ball and the intimacy scenes that test her limits.
Closing Thoughts
Yerin Ha’s rapid audition, loopy Zoom chemistry read, and candid body-image conversation illustrate the modern actor’s journey. Bridgerton season 4 promises fresh romance, strong character arcs, and a release strategy that keeps audiences engaged month after month.
