Penelope's Arc & the plus-size/DUFF stereotype, her new love interest & more, let's talk about it!

[@ari-dc8px]

One thing I hope is expressed in the show (and this may be my opinion but there are sections of the book that confirm this) is that Colin has loved Penelope the entire time and not just because of her physical and even emotion changes. Penelope didn’t have to change for him to be interested in her the only thing that changed was his focus. Colin was written to be very childlike/innocent in a way and the nature of their beginnings (Pen is his sisters best friend) would to a child crush any idea of a relationship outside of something platonic. As does Penelope too in a way, while she does have a crush she’s never genuinely tried to go beyond the boundary bc she loves the genuine friendship they have. This is a story about two young people becoming new versions of themselves rather than the plus sized girl getting the guy bc he finally notices her (that plot trope is so overdone and disrespectful)

[@ari-dc8px]

Plus sized women do not need to change themselves to be loved and they certainly shouldn’t go through drastic changes physically in hopes of being recognized. They should be loved as they are and proudly ! I am very excited for this season even if pen isn’t my favorite character in the series. I love representation more than anything in modern storytelling

[@VinaSash]

THIS! I love this! You said it perfectly

[@Buzz0216]

I agree but that doesn't sell television and netflix being netflix they need some bandwagoning too. 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@Jazzmynnnn]

Well said! 🥳

[@starshake8998]

Yeah, he thinks of her like a sister and finds it hard to sexualize her. It's never meant as a dis.

[@georgiadufresne3360]

Love your analysis, but a few things. 1. Eloise is very self-centered though: take for example the multiple times she just pulls Penelope away while speaking to Colin unaware that her best friend loves her brother!?!? 2. You are so correct, I'm happy that they're friendship is in jeopardy because of something between them instead of fighting over a boy though, though I'm pretty sure Eloise is going to show us She's upset that her brother is interested in Penelope in part 2. 3. I really hope that this alternative suitor doesn't get portrayed as a ick suitor like in season one; I want calling to actually have real competition so it's not like oh well she did the best you could.

[@zoc.6922]

I think it's going to be like season 1 with Daphne and the Prince. He's a good guy & has a higher title but, she's already in love.

[@Zelda00Gamer]

Idk it isn’t Eloise’s job to read into Pens secret love. To Eloise Collin is her older brother who she finds endlessly boring. She’s close to Benedict who is this artist who’s a bit into dreaming and acts a bit more gentle with her. He isn’t Anthony ordering her about basically and fills a bit of a father roll to her as well as elder brother roll. He’s comforting basically. Collin doesn’t do any of this for her. He’s also closer in age which makes her feel more competition. Collin got to travel and do whatever he wanted while Eloise had to prepare to be presented. She resents him, his maleness, and his freedom. She doesn’t see him as a love interest AT ALL. So why would she think about her best friend loving him? If anything she might’ve picked up on it if it was Benedict she was crushing on. It’s not self centered to not always be thinking of everyone else and their feelings especially when said feelings are being purposely hidden. You could argue it’s obvious but this is a tv show and we see more than Eloise does. We see the lingering looks and the tone change and her body language when Eloise isn’t necessarily there to even witness it. Sure she pulls Pen away when she’s chatting to Collin. So? She sees her friend talking to her brother-who she wouldn’t see as a sexual being anyway. All siblings are asexual blobs thank you very much!

[@irmaktemel7171]

I also hate that she never truly noticed Penelopy too, as well as rest of the ton. She was just as unaware and unsuspecting it made me question the nature of their friendship. It seems one sided in a way. Eloise seems to use Penelope's unpopularity to her advantage. She never talks about anything besides lady whistledown or her "friend" Theo and even in the end, she makes it about herself once more even though being LW was all about taking back the power the high society didn't bestow her with

[@PandoraBear357]

Eloise is the epitome of the rebellious rich girl who doesn't actually know much of the world, but thinks she knows everything. Her conversation with Kate about Kate being spinster for example smacked of a girl fishing to for someone to confirm her own opinions. Eloise seemed surprised at Kate's more tempered answer.

[@adriana516]

The thing with Eloise , apart from being self centered, is that Pen has always been there, Pen was her only real friendship. So when she finds out that Pen has loved Collin since the start she could have had doubts if the friendship was even real or just a stepping stone for Pen. Of course it wasnt since the Bridgertons practically adopted Pen, to the point Anthony felt like defending Pen's honor...from his own brother.....But to a self centered teenager like Eloise, not being Pen's #1 felt like a betrayal bigger than anything. Reason why she is mad a Colin, he gets everything- adventure, travel, freedom and now her only friend too...

[@Talesandtexts]

It's because of all the reasons you mentioned about why Penelope deserves to be noticed, acknowledged and loved for how she is (without the weight loss trope), that I - despite being a Polin stan - feel like Debling is such a brilliant addition. He comes out of nowhere, doesn't let theTon's prejudice affect him and he really "sees" Pen for who she is and appreciates her for it. I know I will be in the minority here, but, in an alternate universe, I would have loved to see Debling and Pen's relationship blossom into love, marriage and family. But, hey, Pen wants Colin and I'm happy she gets her desired relationship in the end. 😄

[@valeriarossini543]

yesss I was telling my sister I don't think I've ever seen a sex scene with a plus-size leading lady??? I'm very excited for this season

[@adameleliott1777]

Omg that is so true and I never even thought of it… thanks for opening my eyes sister, I’m excited too now !

[@SolitaryGem]

Pretty sure they had one in the show Empire.

[@marcoslightspeed5517]

Fat people can't maneuver well

[@alehbw]

Hmmm maybe not a super detailed and steamy sex scene (like we spect with Polin), but a softcore one in ¨Babycakes¨ (1989) with Ricky Lake and Craig Sheffer 😉😉😉

[@bubbles4897]

I think you just don’t watch that many shows. Yellowjackets, pretty little liars, and euphoria are amongst the shows where the main characters who were fat had sex

[@robertadeakins-figueroa7368]

I have always been a "big girl." I love Penelope because I can relate to the character on so many levels.

[@goodnessanittenyor]

Pen i also love how they didn't make her loose weight

[@dianeshelton9592]

The poor actress is hardly big. She is just not supper skinny .

[@futuristicgirl14]

@@dianeshelton9592nah

[@salwanausheenbariah4300]

I read ur comment and thought by "big girl" you are the eldest daughter in your family. And thought shouldn't you feel related to Anthony...

[@robertadeakins-figueroa7368]

@@salwanausheenbariah4300 by "big girl," I mean chubby, not skinny, curvy.

[@T_Cup]

I love that they leaned into the wallflower/DUFF trope only to subvert it later by showing Pen's secret life and disrupted people's assumptions about who she should be, which is true of most wallflowers - there’s almost always more than meets the eye because no one’s ever really looking at them. A person can have a massive crush on a guy and have other, more significant things going in their lives, like the Featheringtons almost losing everything multiple times and all the close calls with Lady Whistdown’s identity being uncovered. I even like that they didn’t make her weight the source of her insecurities because, realistically, a lot of women of that era would’ve been on the bigger side given the chill lifestyles of noblewomen. I’m just not sold on her ending up with Colin…yet. Love the actor and hope the character improves, but most of his flaws mirror the flaws of the late Lord Featherington and I don’t love that for her. Both men are/were super insecure over not living up to their title as nobility and overcompensated for that by taking big swings, Featherington with his deal with Will the boxer and Colin with his quick leap into marriage with a near stranger, Marina, and both are/were unwilling to let things go easily despite the harm that might cause. Colin needs to go through some serious growth to be worthy of Pen imo, but I love that we can say that about a lead like her with our whole chest now and acknowledge she’s just as iconic as the previous leading ladies. Sorry for the essay lol

[@loriegabidel]

Nicola Coughlan is so insanely beautiful, and I'm glad she gets to show it off.

[@alexx5064]

she also was hardcore gunning for her own sex scenes and I live for that. get your bag and your sexy debut girl

[@angelinamikkili4806]

I love how you talked about how men must do the "chasing" and women who pine after men, especially plus-size women, are looked down upon. I can't help but think that if the genders were reversed, people would love Polin a lot more, because its two seasons of pining coming to fruition. There are so many stories in media where the man pines for years and when he finally gets the girl, the couple is loved (off the top of my head, Damon and Elena from TVD, Hook and Emma from Once Upon A Time, literally any Korean drama). Personally, I look forward to seeing Penelope as a main character. Her relationship with Colin and Eloise are one of the more interesting ones in the show and I'm excited for it. Great video! Can't wait to see your takes on other shows as well!

[@indedgames4359]

Tbf penelope was a Main character for 2 seasons already. Its more the Main love story abd its like colin asked. Friendship is the best foundation for love isnt it? He Loved her already. Now he relises how much. People tend to forget tropes ar based on Real thibgs. Ther hate it becaus they can Not see them for themself

[@morlenenolwazidube7286]

the way i wasnt excited about s3 bc i hate? (still debating after this trailer i guess) colin for her but this trailer genuinely made me excited bc i love LOVE her as the main character woah.

[@maciedixon3983]

Colin Is an amazing husband and once his dumb ass realizes he loves her. He’s acruelly very good for her. He’s just a dumbass prior to this

[@indedgames4359]

Becaus you dont understand his character.

[@Nyjae8]

@@indedgames4359exactly

[@aahana4931]

idc about any of them i just love nicola 😋i am seated for her

[@CJPDeQueen]

Pen is the CO-/JOINT lead of this series as it's called Bridgerton for a reason so she wouldn't be a MAIN character if she wasn't attach to one of the MAIN family.

[@MasonPerry7]

How I see Penelope, is that she has the potential to be Lady Danbury type character if she sharpens what wits her wardrobe, and her eye and became the most terrifying person in every room she entered. Which is what she seems to be doing in season 3

[@valeriedefarias]

Honestly, I’m hoping they make some steamy scenes for Penelope and Colin (if both actors are comfortable with it) So far, the show has made some amazing intimate scenes between the main couples. I think it’d be good to display a woman who’s body is outside of societal’s beauty restrictions, enjoying herself and sharing this type of intimate moment.

[@AJsGameCorner]

Sorry, you lost me a bit at "ruined Ms. Thompson's whole life" - Ms. Thompson made her own decisions, got herself into a bad situation, tried to trap an unknowing man into marrying her so she could pass someone else's child off as his, and still ended up married pretty well to someone who treated her with decency and respect.

[@fatladysings77]

And her son has the estate and title he would have had if George had married her, so she's better off. Also, if she had not outed Marina as having been with child all along, Colin would have been forced to marry her by people assuming he knocked her up. But I will agree with this creator that, even as a Pen fan above all, that she made bad choices even if her intentions were good. I wish she'd made more of an effort to expose Marina's plot to someone --such as Violet or Anthony before dropping the LW bomb. But as Pen is a teen girl with low self esteem, I doubt she thought they would listen to her. But everyone listens to Lady Whistledown. As for exposing Eloise as a political radical... She agonized over it and cried over it. I do wish she had gone to El and they had decided together what to do. Still, I don't think El was ruined by being called a political radical. If she kept going to rallies, that would have been found out even without LW. Also, El seemed quite proud to wear her rebellion. If she hadn't found out it had been Pen that exposed it, she very likely would have made peace with that and even enjoyed it keeping her off the dance floor.

[@AJsGameCorner]

@@fatladysings77 I agree she could have handled it better, but as a young teenager no one listens to outside of her alter ego, I get it. Also, people seem to completely overlook the fact that the only reason she exposed El was to protect her from being targeted by the Queen. Could she have gone and made a plan together with her? Absolutely. But again, she was young and terrified for her friend. It was a bad decision, but it was made out of love, not malice.

[@iri02802]

Yeah I thought the same. 🙂

[@B.B.H2.0]

I just realized that the reason I love and relate to Pen so much is because of how much alike we are. Minus the LW activities. We were both labeled as the DUFF (designated ugly fat friend) in our friend group in my case. Instead of fat, I was labeled ugly. We were too kind for our own good. We neglected our own needs just to be accepted by the ones we love. I also had a crush on one or two of my guy best friends just not for nearly as long Pen. I try to emphasize with the other main leads as well but I fall short because if Pen who has less opportunities and prospects than the Brigdertons can shake up society and thrive why cant they with all thier advantages. They clearly aren't using their resources properly.

[@samf.s.7731]

And when he goes to see her she lets him know that he shouldn't chase after her. She's married. He should go after Pen. You can crap on Marina all you want, but it was a matter of life or death for her. The man she loved passed away and she couldn't even mourn him properly because guess what? Worrying about being pregnant and being destitute with her baby was the primary concern.

[@Rosula_D]

I feel so lucky because in my country, where media products usually suck, we somehow got an unexpected REAL PLUS SIZE woman as the romantic lead in the early 00s. And she didn't just get the only happy romantic ending out of all the main leads, but she got with the hottest, ~bad boy, brooding but sensitive guy. That show changed my life as a teenager and it's still considered a classic to this day. I wish more girls had this kind of media exposure because the usual releases offer little to no positive portrayal of plus size women. Even DUFF was ridiculous for trying to persuade viewers that Mae Whitman was some kind of fat.

[@singingstar999]

What show is that? I’d love to watch it!

[@Rosula_D]

@@singingstar999 I think that if you search the title "Eisai to tairi mou" (You are my soulmate) you might find some episodes with English subs. But beware, that show came out in the early 2000s and it's very much a product of its time.

[@xXDrenaXx]

Yea, what show?

[@Rosula_D]

Huh, not sure why my previous comment disappeared. The title of the show is "Eisai to tairi mou" (You are my soulmate) and it's from early 00s Greece.

[@gabrielapetrilli9852]

@@Rosula_D Ooh another plus sized show suggestion to watch. Thank you 🙏 another one I would suggest is My Mad Fat Diary. It’s so good and so real. I must warn you though, It’s a real tear jerker in the best way.

[@AlisAnnPage]

One thing that they changed from the books to the show that mildly infuriates me is the 'I would never court Penelope' scene from Colin. In the show, he says it almost jokingly to his buddies at a party, which makes it seem that he is making fun of her on purpose to look good. In the books, he's out on a walk with his brothers, and they're teasing him that , now that they're all settled, its Colin's turn to be harassed by their mother about marriage, and they bring up Penelope as a possible match since she's always around. His statement is made out of frustration and exasperation at the teasing of his brothers, and also because he doesn't want to get married at all, it wasn't necessarily a slight against Penelope personally. I think the way they did it in the show was a disservice to Colin, who cherishes their friendship and wouldn't say something like that in public. Also, they change the way that Pen reacts to the statement. In the show she runs off crying. In the book, she hears the statement, and they all turn around and see her there and know she heard them. They try to apologize, but she brushes them off, shows a little backbone and acts like she is unaffected. It is the first time we get a hint that she is something other than a wallflower, and the way she handles it even though her heart is breaking shows how strong she is. (PS. a Stone is 14 lbs, or 6.35 kg)

[@ninaschaumann8096]

I agree with your point, but I also like the fact that Colin gets to be confused and sad, because Pen isn't talking to him. This is probably the first time she shows that she's hurt by his actions, so he finally gets a reality check (and realizes how much she enjoys her company). Another thing: In the scene with Colin and the other men, I'm hoping he said it because he wants to help Penelope find a husband (like he does in Season 3), so by saying to them "I'm not in the way, go for it", as well as the fact that he is like "no, we're just friends??". I agree that the tone was weird, sounding like he was joking and saying "What do you think, I would never court someone like HER", and that was the way Pen interpreted it. But he has so much respect for her, so I don't think that was his intention.

[@isabelfornos6589]

YES!! i’ve said this i don’t know how many times 😭 it’s more dramatic on Bridgertons part. In a way, her confronting him and distancing herself from him is also like her having a backbone and being strong. I wouldn’t have minded him saying that in from of his friends in such a grandeur way if we would’ve seen more scenes with Violet pressing him to dance w Penelope (S. 1&2) and suggesting Penelope. Along with the teasing of his brothers, I think that would’ve been more fun to see.

[@inhobiswinecellar9571]

Ok so overall would u say the books are better than the show. Rllh want to read them but I have like 200 plus books on my tbr list 😅

[@AlisAnnPage]

In some ways yes, others no. For example, the queen is not in the books, and I love her addition to the shows. I feel like they made Anthony into an ass in season 1, which I hated. And Lady Whistledown isn't revealed until the 4th book, which I preferred. Overall I would say that the books have a different feel. More traditional regency romance and less of the modern touches that make the show unique.

[@psychedelicpegasus7587]

I think an aspect you overlooked was the behaviour of Pen's family, the scandals that put dents in the Featherington family's reputation, and how that can have had an impact on the way Penelope herself is perceived (or overlooked) by the Ton. Her mother and sisters are ridiculous at times and good at putting themselves forward (even when it's not appropriate), so it makes sense that the youngest, and quietest, daughter would be overlooked. Also, the two men in the family, the heads of the household, were a gambling addict and a scam artist. Since Penelope is very shy, only people she really trusts learn about how intelligent, witty and insightful she is so I think it will take Pen gaining the confidence to put herself out there and for a suitor who isn't prejudiced by past rumours and scandals (so someone new to the Ton). I can't wait for the new season! ❤🎉

[@mochiieekim]

Personally, I'm not rooting for Colin. I just tend to have a painful eyeroll every time he is around and i would love to see her with a new person who treasures her so deeply it eliminates colin. Still. very much excited for this season. side note: The part you mentioned that Penelope could easily attract a man as a plus size, there was a creator (Can't remember the name) but they mentioned that Lord fife, yes the bloke,might have been an admirer. You can kinda notice him in the background in some scenes observing her.

[@maciedixon3983]

He’s gonna have to make amends and he does cherish her. He’s just an idiot and he will have to grovel for the idiocy he said and he’s gonna feel awful about it. All the bridgerton men while amazing do some really stupid shit. 😂

[@KikeNavarrete68]

Well that’s not gonna happened, the couples are stablished in the books

[@eme.261]

​@@KikeNavarrete68-- Please control yourself and refrain from spoiling details of the story for non- book readers. It's a very unattractive character trait to take pleasure in robbing others of the fun of discovery as the show unfolds. Also, considering how Shonda Land has been tweaking the stories, you have no idea which characters will be utilized to add depth to the individual romances.

[@happydaze7976]

​@@KikeNavarrete68truth ❤❤❤❤

[@happydaze7976]

​@@eme.261did you not see the Netflix promo interview with Shonda, the show runner, Julia Quinn and the cast? Its all out there already. A few tweaks but no character changes from the books..

[@prayingbanshee]

Your understanding of Penelope’s character was refreshing even if I don’t feel as hard (I guess) as you do about her actions in the show against Marina and Eloise. But I do agree with the rest of your opinions, in particular about the portrayal of Penelope in the books vs the show. The show did so much better… and god, that’s such a strange thing to write because how rare is that? Anyway, the trailer was all I could ask for, our leads are looking incredible and I can’t wait to see them shine and finally find each other. Thank you for sharing!

[@darkmage4648]

Penelope is the best character in the series. She took the unfavourable hand dealt to her and then she didnt fold.

[@majeda_a]

exactly. she's certainly one of the more interesting characters in the show. i feel her journey is way more prevalent than most of the other bridgerton siblings even in the first two seasons when she's not technically the lead.

[@T_Cup]

So true bestie, and sorrows, sorrows, prayers to anyone who thinks otherwise

[@Pillowlips77]

In the show yes, although the best character in the Bridgerton world is about to arrive 🤭 (Sophie Beckett)

[@yarjona9981]

In the book Colin comes back from his travels to find a slim Penelope. I’m happy it’s not the case here…. And I’m a flaca. Hispanic slang for thin girl.

[@darkmage4648]

Noo... he came back to a Penelope who looked more womanly. Like she hadn't hit her growth spurt, but had grown into herself.

[@yarjona9981]

@@darkmage4648 Yeah…. Read it again.

[@earlonaweary9155]

The book says she's "pleasantly plump". I think she just lost her baby fat.💁🏽‍♀️

[@PolinFan]

penelope was plus sized the whole book

[@soukeynaadeleseck]

She lost two stones….

[@phronsieone]

In “Anne of Green Gables”, Diana Berry is considered the most beautiful girl in the area. She was plump. Plump enough that skinny Anne wishes she had dimples in her elbows like Diana’s. Through most of history, plump was considered beautiful.

[@oddurmaz]

I'm really glad that they didn't put her on an extreme diet and make her lose lots of weight etc for her leading season. Thank god!

[@hdeak01]

I think the actress that plays Penelope is beautiful. I don’t think the costumes they put her in the first 2 seasons didn’t flatter her at all. Now the costumes in this new season, she looks like a grown up and is beautiful!

[@cherishoneal9108]

I think the unflattering outfits is symbolism of how Penelope is seen to others.

[@BearToonStudios]

I always thought of it as the idea that Penelope’s mother doesn’t see her daughter as a grown woman. I always saw her wardrobe as her mother clinging to the idea that Pen is still a little girl. Because she always seemed to dress her like a little girl, not an adult looking for a husband. The new look is more adult. That being said her mother is still not really involved in helping her get a husband, she actually seemed to think the idea that pen wanted a husband to be laughable. Like you can’t get a husband you’re still a child, mentality. And to her pen will always be a child.

[@LeBasfondMusic]

The actress who plays Penelope is so beautiful. It's wild to me they tried to set her up as the "DUFF" because she's so lovely and charismatic.

[@SA-xt1gd]

“Made a profit out of there ignorance” I love the way you worded that!

[@Heidi-by5cb]

Lord D seems like a nice, handsome attractive man with title but i think there's going to be more to him than these previews show. It's going to be great to see colin become jealous of Penelope spending time with him but he's not going to be a serious threat to Colin by the end of the season. Penelope and Colin are end game but the drama is going to be interesting to watch.

[@PolinFan]

also he’s only in 3 episodes according to imdb. he’s not in part 2 at all.

[@bandana85]

I'd love to address two things, based on the show and trailers we have been getting. First - i really dislike Eloise, and don't get me wrong, i fully understand the character needs to grow and mature. I'm also almost convinced that she actually valued and respected the lovely and unique bond she has with Pen. However, she's just cringe. While Pen is already fully formed so to speak, attractive, witty, kind and caring, strong and cunning, Eloise is so much up her own a** it's infuriating at times. Eloise tries to go so much against the grain, but ends up just making a fool of herself. She needs to realise she needs to step up in her friendship with Pen and pronto. Secondly, i want to see Pen hit it off with a different suitor who is worthy of her hand. And Collin to suffer just a little bit, so he realises he needs to become better for Pen, not the other way round. Penelope is believed to be that happy cheerful wallflower who is just there for others' amusement, when in fact she is (in my opinion) like a siren almost - beautiful, radiant and oh so charming, but sharp and intelligent. Basically, seson 3 please make Collin work for it😂

[@RenaissanceRockerBoy]

Eloise feels out of place bc she is so painfully 2010s buzzfeed feminist girl boss and it's just a bit cringey. Kate has a strong attitude but Eloise is just kind of insufferable.

[@saramm3765]

I also love that she's shorter than the rest of the seasons main females. After last season when the shorter sister got taken for a ride and her taller sister ended up being the one lusted for this season is justice for the short gals.

[@brendadotter4433]

I just want to say two things: 1) Thanks for such a thoughtful video, and 2) Thanks for pronouncing "ton" correctly!💖💖👏🏽👏🏽

[@simplyjoe2757]

As a big women it is my exerience that the eyes of the men that " I catch" don't seem to be interested in me for any good reason or thing thus far. But I do love this series the story lines are great and I love the characters and costumes. GREAT JOB YOU GUYS💐

[@hydrangeagal3341]

I will be honest- me and my friends are so excited for season 3 because she looks like us. I’m only getting into Bridgeton now because of Penelope

[@isabelfornos6589]

One of the most rewarding parts of the book is just the openness that slowly comes together from both parties. Penelope finally shows her true self, she doesn’t hide anymore. She allows herself to not think of who she could be, but step into it. Colin, on the other hand, encourages it. Penelope admits several times that his easy, kind demeanor and long standing friendship provided a safe space to open up and push herself to where she never thought she could go. This ends up pooling into Colin himself and they’re two completely different more mature and complex characters by the end of the book. She steps into herself and he in turn-is completely enamored by it. It’s slow, throughout the book, but the more her facade breaks the closer he gets. Even their first kiss scene, he is the one who even starts up the subject!

[@MindiB]

The diversity of this series’ casting makes me happy, especially because it is just. . . there, treated as a non-issue; like, of COURSE the cast is diverse, just like humanity! Duh! The actors were clearly chosen for their talent (and, yes, their beauty!) without a fixation on boringly outmoded stereotypes of “attractiveness” grounded in whiteness and thinness. Nicola is gorgeous and I am thrilled to see her take center stage. ETA: And, IMO, it is entirely appropriate that Colin has “glowed up” for his featured turn. It’s called punching up! In fiction and, sadly, IRL, it is women almost exclusively who have been expected to meet certain visual standards to be considered worthy of “leading lady” status. (It is sad to me that “Jane Eyre” is still something of a unicorn among romance novels with its expressly unbeautiful heroine.) I am perfectly content to allow the men to feel similar pressure going forward. Luke Newton is looking newly fit, and I’m here for it.

[@amydelaney644]

that is one thing that I am enjoying with the series is that, she is now receiving attention without having to lose weight first...the book indicated that she lost 2 stone (24 pounds). It's nice that they have it so that Colin looks at her in that way without having to conform to the thinner norms

[@mecohano]

Though in the books that was weight lost (and not deliberately) between her first and second seasons “out” in society, years before she and Colin get together. Her weight has no impact on her popularity or lack thereof, and doesn’t manifest as a source of deep-rooted insecurity at all in the books. Rather, her family’s unpopularity, lack of great fortune, and unimpressive social connections leave her her wallflower-ness a solid final obstacle. I always liked that the driving force behind hers and Colin’s growing friendship is that she starts showing up in her full actual personality even when other people than Eloise are around. He falls in love with her, not some sudden revelation of her physical beauty in better couture.

[@mmichelle4082]

UH no Miss Thompson ruined her own life, and Pen prevented her from ruining Collins, Miss Thompson still has all the comforts and protection she was trying to marry Collin for in her marriage to Sir Philip Crane but even more, her children will have the Crane last name like there actual father, her son will inherit, she is titled as Lady Crane, she runs her own household. Sir Crane had to grow up and take responsibility while Collin is like she said, still a boy. AND she didn't really ruin Eloise's life either, I mean if she printed what Eloise actually was doing then yes, since Eloise was going there to meet with Theo under the guise of some excuse, since Eloise herself said she needed to know if Theo was thinking of her too, so it was more about him then the betterment of ones mind. With that, if Pen wanted to ruin her life for real she could have written that Eloise was secretly meeting up with a guy which would have ruined her and her family completely, this meeting with political parties will be forgotten and forgiven. Also, in season 3, Eloise better not whine and complain about not being able to do anything because she is a woman, look at Madame delecroix and Pen. Eloise is able and capable she has the resources to hire someone to teach her more but instead she whines about it all.

[@biancamariavalenti8050]

I think both Colin and Pen didn’t want to ruin their friendship Not to mention Colin initially saw her as just his friend and his sister’s best friend so maybe he thought it would be awkward trying to court a friend since in the season 3 trailer he asks Violet if she believes a foundation for love could be friendship.

[@ishita8486]

yes. thank you for mentioning that as a bigger woman you cannot attract men. My bff was quite large and THE most popular one in the group. She still is. And I too was slightly on the heavier side and perhaps not the quintessential men but did attract enough attention from the popular men.

[@stacym735]

I struggle with this, and here is why: Penelope is almost otherworldly beautiful. and downright sexy. She is kind, thoughtful, smart, observant, talented, and brave in her own way. She is certainly nobody's "DUFF" (gawd, what a vile thought!). *Anyone* would be lucky to have her as a friend, a lover, or a wife. AND (maybe I need to pull on my flame-proof britches for this) I guess we're supposed to celebrate her being on the home stretch toward her final destination - "Polin" - but I just can't. Colin has been SO careless with her, for so long, in so many ways... good lord (when speaking of women, he told her "You Don't Count"?!). It's like the writers are undermining all of her above-mentioned amazing qualities, just by NOT having her tell Colin to kick rocks, the end. But let's not forget, another nasty stereotype of Big Beautiful Women is that they're supposed to grateful for crumbs off a pretty person's table.

[@KatBaumgarten]

At first i thought that Penelope being a flawed person took away from her character, especially after the whole thing with Marina. It wasn't until season 2 that I realised *why* she was flawed like that and I started to see her character on a whole new light. I'm glad ahe breaks out of the mold in every way and I'm so excited for HER season

[@saracarlson-kringle]

I will paraphrase a quote from 'The Count of Monte Cristo' : Their neglect becomes [her] ally.

[@emeraude15]

I find the stereotype of "low self-esteem plus-size woman" sooo ridiculous... I mean, come on! As overweight women, we HAVE to develop thicker skins because everybody in our life will judge or comment or insult our physique at some point. My boyfriend had never really been attracted to curvy women before me, he liked my charm and confidence so much he just "didn't realize" I was plus-size until date number 2 or 3... Anyway, I have high hopes for this season and am excited to see penelope's arc!

[@elisa4620]

True. But for Penelope her lack of confidence comes more from emotional abuse and neglect. At no point does she seem to feel bad or ashamed of her body. And that's nice 👏

[@jeanannrockett2720]

I love the show but was so Disappointed by the book. I only read the first one and all the cool parts from the show were absent. No POC. No gentleman antics, no common people (Madame Delacroix), and all the other characters were just paper dolls with no thoughts or emotions. Eloise’s character was especially drab. I adore Eloise on the show. So basically Shonda is the true creator of this amazing show that are “loosely based” on the novels by Julie Quinn.

[@Melody_Oks]

There’s a little story I want to share to cheer up the girls insecure about their weight being the thing that pushes away man: I kinda was that girl! I feel you! I was about 70-80kg, 1.7 meters since 15 and never changed. And I was extra shy, had extra low self esteem, frightened of the idea ending up alone, cause OBVIOUSLY no guy was ever attracted to me because of my self-esteem. How I know that? Well, it all changed since the moment I decided to stop following the suggestions of the society to hide myself and felt worthy of flirting, going out and wearing whatever I want even if it didn’t fit really. That was the moment I felt confidence and suddenly I was surrounded by male attention. So, just feel confident and remember that your figure has nothing to do with relationships. And btw, the opportunity to attract a man should affect your confidence too!!!

[@fuyutsuki32523]

I...think Pen is the ginger cat and Colin is the Husky cause his goofy, wander around but no one could really control him. You know how friendly the ginger cat could be but they could also be sensitive at the same time. And in my imagination, Colin is just accept Pen near him, snuggle with him while taking the sun bath. Sometimes he came to her, he seemed that not really care about Pen but no one can harm his feline "friends" even though maybe someone just higher their voice to Pen. Now Pen try to find a cuddle buddy and Colin is like "Nah I am the one who could be your fluffy mat and THE ONLY CUDDLE BUDDY" lol

[@HomerPaley]

I'm sorry, I disagree... 1) Penelope did not ruin Marina's life. Pen knew of Marina's plan to deceive Colin into marriage and cautioned her against it several times. Marina's actions were callous and manipulative, especially compared to how Colin treated her. Colin even acknowledged that he would have married Marina if she had been truthful about her pregnancy. Pen only exposed Marina as a last resort. 2) Pen did not ruin Eloise; in fact, she helped her. Similar to Marina, Pen cautioned Eloise about the dangers of getting involved with Theo and attending radical gatherings several times. Despite warnings from both Pen and Theo, Eloise was too stubborn for her own good and got in trouble with the Queen. Pen as Lady Whistledown revealed the lesser of two evils (the radical gatherings) to shield Eloise from the Queen's wrath.

[@elisa4620]

THANK YOU FOR SAYING THIS 👏👏👏 Tired of people exaggerating her mistakes! Marina got lucky in the end so she would have been ruined but that would have been the consequences of her actions. Colin didn't deserve to be entrapped by her ruse. And Éloïse was hardly ruined. She's still here and no one avoids her or talk badly to her. I wished the show had addressed how Pen tried to talk privately before but no one would listen and she was desperate she did it at last resort. At least Colin gave her some room to explain herself so it's better than nothing at all. But for Marina she should have tried talking with Violet and Anthony. They would have listened to her. Of course she did know it because no one ever listened to her. But she should have tried.

[@emilyvillager]

Great video!!! ❤ One thing I never noticed was the wardrobe clashing with her for the first two seasons, thats such a good detail! I'm equally nervous and excited for the next season, I really hope her romance is handled well

[@ambberhill1090]

Julia Quinn was quite disrespectful to Penelope about her looks in her book, even in the show the only person who shows interest in her was looking for an estate manager, not a wife to love. He didn't even have the interest to fight for her hand

[@elisa4620]

I think that Lord Deblin was very respectful of Pen. He was respectful of her opinions, of her tastes. He genuinely appreciated her and cared about her. He was also honest with her and expected the same from her. On paper he was exactly what she was looking for. Even better. But he was not in love and not looking for a love match. While Pen was still in love with Colin. So no, he didn't fight for her hand. But he didn't lashed out on her either. He respectfully stepped out because he saw that Colin did love her back and wished her she could get her happy ending.

[@mildredmelusine6970]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, it impacts the way I see myself as a fat woman and helps counteract the horrible things my ex said to me when he explained why he thought I was no longer worthy of love.

[@jmboyd65]

A "stone" I believe is 20lb, or yes, around 12 kg. And yes, having been voluptuous my whole life, I had no problem attracting partners. In fact, I believe most people want some extra pounds on their lovers-- it's just society and media who shame bbp and those who love them.

[@andraste6746]

A stone is 14lbs or around 6kg

[@NocciolaGelato00]

I love how mary's theme is playing in the background 😮‍💨❤️

[@haileyy1793]

Genuinely, I have never thought about Penelope being the “DUFF” of this show. I thought she was quirky because she was considered young and wanted nothing more than to be with her friend and to have her hopes of being Lady Whistledown one day come true. After everything that happened, the thought of also becoming a spinster sets in and now she’s wanting more for her life instead of staying naive and oblivious to societies rules. She’d love to have a man who sees her for her instead of being friend zoned every second of an interaction. She’s growing into a woman. I’m tired of looks and weight being the only thing people see in a person especially actors. I’d say everyone who I have watched on Bridgerton has so much potential as an actor/actress.

[@DevlinIdell]

I think Nicola is a very beautiful woman, and I'm envious of her seemingly flawless complexion and skin.

[@eibyssis]

2:00 And i cant forgive the writers for doing this with penelope character and now this thing with eloise and cressida?????

[@goodnessanittenyor]

But I think that was the point for the build up in season 3

[@chenisejenkins1786]

From the scenes that I saw of Eloise and Penelope, it always seemed that Eloise dominated the relationship and used Penelope as a scapegoat to dump all her inner turmoil on, and it irritated me. Her becoming friends with Cressida after the stuff she did to Penelope, simply because "she was there" when Eloise was in her emotions, just further fuels the fact that she never saw Penelope as a genuine equal or friend, in my opinion.

[@MononokeLynn]

I want Colin and Pen to end up together, but oh boy do I want him to suffer for it - I want angst, looks l of longing from him, and all the emo feelings of a slow-burn can give!!!

[@KatBaumgarten]

Nicola using her irish accent to play the servant is so cute to me i love her so much

[@oOVanillaMelOo]

I also was afraid that her weight would be a point of discussion throughout the serie but after seeing season 3..... my goodness is she just a vision!! She's shines like an actual diamond, she's absolutely beautiful and I'm so glad that her weight is never discussed! It's her fashion, yes, but that something she can change (and she does), it's her approach when discussing with other people, it's her motivation. This show is doing an incredible job and the actress is something else! 😍

[@DonniTom]

As a very plus size woman. I am shocked that Nicola is considered plus suzed.

[@--julian_]

for Hollywood she is

[@Vanessamnms]

Totally agree. She is mid-sized at best.

[@zurzakne-etra7069]

the thing is, I don't think shes even plus sized? she's just really short, so she looks plus sized. I doubt she's bigger than a size 10-12 tbh. In that promo vid with Simone, she only looks slightly bigger, and simone is extremely thin so...

[@AlexandraM689]

​@@zurzakne-etra7069 But because she is so short it's more noticeable, if she were taller it'd be a different story

[@kimherdman6171]

Agree

[@VidWatcher01]

I went off on some people in a Bridgerton FB group for dogging Pen/Nichola's weight regarding the steamy scenes including another big girl dogging her.

[@PolinFan]

wow, this just made me more glad they’ve upped the spice since season 2! i need her to get a lot of sex scenes, not because i personally like them but because seeing a plus sized leading lady is revolutionary. there is not only one kind of diversity, body diversity needs to be explored too. the fact they were so comfortable talking about her in that manner proves we’re still so far away from fat women being seen as equal to their skinny counterparts.

[@lilialemus3368]

It's not that Penelope lost weight and Colin was suddenly interested in her because she lost the weight years before they got together. No, what interested Colin was her new confidence because all Colin notices about her appearance is that her dress' color suit her now. While he liked her before, he fell in love because she was more open about her opinions when she used to not be, that he got to see the true Penelope. When she came out in society she was cripplingly shy that she barely had any presence and she was so hard on herself on Wistledown, so it's no wonder that no one wanted to court her.

[@Tccevalgrl-197]

I wasn’t aware of that term until I saw the movie The Duff, but it very accurately describes my experience as a teenager with my two best friends at the time. They were never anything but supportive and protective and sweet. But there was this male mutual friend who called one friend beautiful, one friend gorgeous and I was designated as cute. I absolutely hated that word at the time. I wasn’t remotely interested in that male friend, btw. And looking back now I know that I was definitely attractive, but about 30 lbs heavier than the others and more of a tomboy. A jeans and t-shirt person. Tbh I am much “curvier” and fluffy now than I was then. Just saying I identify with and empathize with others out there.❤

[@beatpirate8]

i root for penelope so much! she is so gorgeous and beautiful and smart and talented and i cant get enough of women like her!

[@KikeNavarrete68]

In the show Penelope is not gonna loose weight

[@goodnessanittenyor]

I love that for her, I think it gives a message of you don't need to loose weight to be worthy of love

[@wolphcall]

I think Penelope’s extreme shyness needs to be taken into account when it comes to attracting someone. It’s difficult, at best, to attract someone when you are uncomfortable talking to people.

[@joannecash7243]

So enjoyed hearing this by a true fan. Some of these folks mispronounce words and names, and clearly know only what they’ve been told.

[@claire6258]

This is such a well-expressed video-essay. Thank you. ❤

[@Elliecharlotte]

It disappoints me that they got Colin to buff up for this season. If it’s supposed to be all about body positivity, why the double standard?

[@lionfish2201]

I think part of it is his growth journey into becoming a man. He’s been traveling and isn’t the naive boy who wanted to marry Miss Thompson. Also, there’s definitely a glow-up each season of the main characters. Penelope didn’t have to lose weight, but she did get a hair/wardrobe boost.

[@72586jejones]

You are complaining about an attractive, buff man? Now I have heard it all.

[@Elliecharlotte]

@@lionfish2201 yeah I get what you’re saying. But if Penelope’s glow up could be just through clothes why does Colin’s have to be through changing his body? If Pen had lost weight/toned up for the season there would have been outcry. I just feel a bit bad for Colin, not that getting in shape is any bad thing at all but if he were a woman it definitely wouldn’t be considered okay that this is the form his glow up took?

[@goodnessanittenyor]

I get what your saying but I think the reason they did that is for Colin to seem more manly and more desirable for the woman so when (hoping this happens) Colin defens her in front of everyone people will be shock that a man like "him" could like someone like "pen"

[@Elliecharlotte]

@@goodnessanittenyor interesting, yes i guess that makes sense 😊

[@katerynasirko1832]

I was disturbed by how weirded out I was by the love scenes. Penelope is roughly my size and height, and I have had sex with slim tall handsome guys, but I think I kinda dissociate during sex and feel awakward picturing myself doing it. It's a bit funny how, like Penelope, my arms are too short to reach some parts of my partner's body, or how I don't bend as much, but it's so messed up that I have been taught to treat it as negative and unsexy, to the point where I watch a scene like this and it feels weird and unbelievable, even though I myself have had the same experience. I was also really excited for those love scenes, rooting loudly the way men root during a football match. There were nany emotions happening at once)

[@jenm1]

fwiw, i'm a smaller woman and thought those scenes were just as lovely as Daph & the Duke/Kanthony

[@katerynasirko1832]

@@jenm1 thanks! I agree that the scenes are lovely! I am just deeply saddened how deeply brainwashed I was into believing that bodies like mine are not sexy; to the point where I am clearly excited and turned on by Penelope's sex scenes but I also feel awkward and a little ashamed for liking it that way because it reminds me of how my body must look like during sex and I don't feel like my body is sexy. It has nothing to do with Nicola, though, she is STUNNING and I love her so much!

[@natalieadon1015]

I had youtube on autoplay and didn’t see the title so when at the beginning you were talking about addressing the elephant in the room i thought you were going about her character going ruining her friends reputation (maria & eloise) and was surprised that some think her weight would make her unattractive

[@shadn]

Unrelated but I love your voice

[@lucamolta]

The transformation is aesthetic in her fashion and presentation because her mum would control her dressing and because she was yet to let go of her fears and insecurities and step into the light to be seen. Colin didn’t see her because he’s always known her as his friend since they were young and he’s trying to become this nan seperate from his past confused self. But also maybe she was not ready to be fully seen. Also the boy is clueless.

[@mgkaller]

I like this analysis, but the clips going backwards is really distracting.

[@Hathor17]

This part, and most marriages at least in America feature either a plus size man or woman, size does not affect your ability to marry. It effects your prospects and who you marry, so to the young folks I will say if you are not the "ideal" body size or look, make sure folks are marrying you for the right reasons. As for the show, it is super true to life in that plus size folks are often overlooked until your personality eventually shines and is irresistible..

[@goddessartemis85]

Shonda Rimes has really elevated the series. it's so disappointing to read the books after watching the show. There's far less intrigue and fairly little social commentary. I'd love to see Shonda take on Tessa Dare's Spindle Cove series.

[@wildcatghoulette1822]

I always said that Pen’s Mom did not do her any favors by how she had her dressed. And boy howdy, after seeing Nicola as Pen in the greens and blues of the season 3 costumes, I was beyond correct. Neither TV/Book Mrs. Featherington was good to Penelope.

[@BriannaLaunza]

I think season 3 is going to even the playing field for them. Pen is going to focus on finding a husband that is not Colin and he, in turn, is going to fall head over heels. I’m excited to see how they’re going to play it 😊

[@nika-pt2pl]

I cannot even tell you how much I relate to this. After having my first child I thought I looked awful and I had zero self confidence.. I had this idea that once I will manage to get some of the weight off all my issues will be gone. Guess what.. I've lost 90 pounds and I felt like I've been scammed. It did nothing to how I felt about myself I was still full of insecurities

[@LizardsLore]

I honestly love the show much more than the books.. I honestly tried to get through the books but… *sigh* there’s too much about them that isn’t for me. The show tho? Blowing me away. I still have my criticism and you’ve said quite a few that I very much agree with here. New follower gained ❤

[@mar_dma]

10:06 I wish I had this type of confidence because it’s super hard for me to attract men, they all just want to be friends 😂

[@deborahtheexplorer]

Hahaha girlie it takes time & took me time as well 😝🫶🏽 but stay beautiful and taking care of yourself trust me, they’ll come

[@slieb91]

As a plus size woman my self i absolutely love pen i see my self in her so much and her getting the perfect match gives me hope for the future that i will find a boyfriend that loves me as much as Colin loves pen

[@floralfancy7814]

I watched a video where someone hypothesized that the Featheringtons would have their downfall and Penelope would fall back down the ranks, with Colin breaking up with her after finding she is Lady Whistledown. I really hope things don't turn out too tragic for Penelope though.

[@cynthiamarquez3370]

It is the tameing of the Shrews...you must get the older ones married first

[@joanejustjoane3331]

I'm most curious how they will deal with his comment about "never courting Pen". Will he explain it, and will it sound like a ridiculous excuse, or perhaps something protective and endearing? (fingers drumming in anticipation)

[@eleniantoniou534]

Nicely said.

[@KneadfulThings]

Just a question, why are the clips rewinding?

[@alifishies]

Still can't believe the actress is 37. I thought for sure she was somewhere in her 20s

[@queenbigb]

I asked this question on the official trailer video. Is it sexist for Luke to have to hit the gym but Nicola doesn’t…

[@suli__.]

you know people have different body types right

[@AW-xc1xc]

Nicola literally posts pictures of herself working out, I don't know why you've got the idea that she doesn't

[@majeda_a]

no

[@fatladysings77]

Nic was working out as well, with what time she had, which was minimal. She filmed two other projects while filming season 3. Men legit lose more weight and gain muscle with far less effort than women do. Just bc Colin looks more conventionally gym fit doesn't mean they both didn't work to look their best.

[@marcoslightspeed5517]

​@@fatladysings77then why can't they put double the effort?

[@caarline654]

Okay now i know we are not saying tik tok started Black Cat / Golden Retriever talk. That's been in fandoms for at least a decade

[@melancholicpeaceencapsulated]

WE HAVE THE SAME NAMNME AND ITS PRONOUNCED THE SAME WAY! ❤

[@jenm1]

I find it curious that there's a conflict with Colin not noticing her romantically until S3. I know in those times age of majority was like 12, but maybe he just wasn't interested in a child since he was older than Daphne and Pen was Eloise's age.

[@if7363]

Fuller body at the time was seen as beautiful and as a sign of good fertility

[@abbysteranko474]

In my opinion, I think that Lady Danbury is going to take Penelope under her wing and show her how to be a flower, not a wildflower, no more. (No hate.) In my opinion, Francesca is better than Eloise in every way, shape, and form. (No hate.) Is it just me thinking that the every last clip in the trailer is the end of the last episode of the last clips of s3 part one? 🤔 I think the picture with Lord Debling puts his hand on Penelope waste is because they see Colin puch someone. The last picture of Dubling with Penelope I think the reason why she turned her hand is to make sure everyone is watching special Colin.

[@kerstinschwarz5222]

actually i can kinda believe the attract no one thing ^^; i for myself am not ugly but was never asked out or approached in my 30 years even when i was a teen/young adult and thinner....

[@RozenMaiden25]

If pollin had kids wood they use brigerton naming rules or featherington naming rules cus if they had a son i head canon there name wood be Percy

[@Lafeolamom]

nichola is a goddess

[@rgirl1243]

1stone=14lbs so in the book she lost 168 pounds. So, in the book they did the she lost a lot of weight and then was noticed thing. I like her the way they are doing it in the series.

[@PolinFan]

she did not loose 168 pounds. she lost 2 stone which is equal to 28 pounds 10 years before her and colin got together. he made that comment about never marrying penelope after she lost the baby weight, so he didn’t “suddenly”notice her. she still is plus sized when they get together. i hate this misinformation.

[@AlexandraM689]

​@@PolinFanI wouldn't say plus size but healthy weight with a fuller figure aspect to it

[@saul.t.2.969]

I think it’s interesting in life it’s still okay (not according to me) to fat shame, so Nicola on the set of. Rodger ton is ALWAYS the best dressed, like channel, etc…

[@MoondogMadness]

💖💖💖

[@grayb7420]

No question this actress is stunning but in the book if I recall that character lost a lot of weight before gaining Colin’s attention. I too enjoy a plus sized person in the lead role but the book perpetuates the myth you must lose weight to get the man you want.

[@PolinFan]

nope that’s not how the book goes. she lost 28 pounds (baby fat) 10 years before her and colin got together. they knew each other during those 10 years and he still didn’t return her feelings. it was only until she became a spinster, and they started spending more time together he fell in love with her personality. penelope was still plus sized when her and colin got together.

[@lauriehaggith6297]

I don't don't think she's so called big. She's short and big busted. Love the actress !

[@oyaami1874]

I really dont like Penelope, i think they did her a disservice by introducing the whole Marina storyline. However, if we judge her according to the series I think she is as scary as baby reindeer. She lies to her friends and family, follows Collin around, interferes in his life, spies on people, bribe their servants and is prepared to use blackmail.

[@girlm0ss97]

i know the show is not historically accurate but it's so odd to me to see Penelope as the "DUFF" or the fact that her weight is used against her because she was the beauty standard of the time (it was literally a sign of wealth) everyone else is just too skinny not just for the regency era but even for the modern day