Nicola Coughlan, the beloved actress behind Penelope Featherington in Bridgerton, has been making headlines recently for more than just her impeccable acting skills and sharp wit. Yes, Nicola Coughlan lost 28 pounds, and her weight loss journey has been both inspiring and eye-opening. From dealing with criticism to embracing her true self, Nicola’s experience is something many can relate to. Here’s how she did it and why it matters.
“I think people always want to put you in a box,” Nicola shared in an interview, and it was clear she wasn’t just talking about her career. In a candid conversation, she opened up about her relationship with her body over the years. “I was really skinny growing up, and then, because of a lot of health issues, I gained a bunch of weight.” This transformation wasn’t easy, but she decided to take charge of her health in a way that was empowering and true to herself.
The Beginning of Nicola’s Journey
Nicola’s journey to a healthier self was not about conforming to industry standards. She was quick to emphasize, “Bodies change, if I lose weight or gain weight, it’s nobody’s business.” Nicola’s aim wasn’t to become the typical Hollywood skinny; it was about feeling her best and regaining control over her health. By cutting down on processed foods and embracing a balanced diet that included fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, Nicola started feeling the benefits not just physically but mentally as well.
In fact, Nicola even tried the Keto Diet at one point. As she put it, “It was daring, and honestly, I wanted to see if it was something my body could adjust to.” She mentioned that the high-fat, low-carb approach helped kickstart her weight loss initially, but she soon realized that a more balanced approach suited her long term. For Nicola, this journey wasn’t about temporary fixes or extreme diets. Instead, she focused on finding what worked best for her body, and that’s what really made a difference.
The Emotional Rollercoaster
The emotional aspect of Nicola’s journey is as significant as the physical one. “There were days when I felt amazing, and then days when I thought, ‘Why am I doing this?'” she admitted. The reality of her career is that, as a public figure, the scrutiny is often relentless. Nicola faced online criticism and body-shaming throughout her time in the spotlight, and it only heightened after her role in Bridgerton.
“They said all kinds of things about me online,” she recalled, acknowledging how cruel people can be behind screens. But instead of letting the negative comments define her, Nicola found strength in her supportive fanbase and close-knit circle of friends. “I have a group of friends who have been there for me since the beginning, and they remind me of who I am. It’s not about the weight; it’s about the person,” she said.
Fitness with a Twist
When it came to her workout routine, Nicola found that mixing up her exercises kept her motivated. Rather than sticking to a strict regimen, she incorporated activities she genuinely enjoyed. From yoga to light weightlifting and even the occasional swim, Nicola’s workouts were more about maintaining her mental well-being than reaching a specific body size. “For me, exercising became less about calories burned and more about how I felt afterward. I wanted to be strong, not just thin,” she shared.
Swimming was particularly transformative for Nicola. Not only was it a great way to stay active, but it also gave her a sense of freedom she hadn’t experienced in a while. “In the water, I just felt weightless, like none of it mattered anymore,” she explained. Swimming, combined with her balanced diet, helped her lose 28 pounds—a number that has been buzzing in the media for months now.
Embracing Her New Self
After losing 28 pounds, Nicola says the biggest change hasn’t been her appearance—it’s been her mindset. She talks about a newfound confidence, one that isn’t dependent on the number on a scale. “I feel like I’ve taken my power back,” Nicola confessed with a smile. It’s clear that her weight loss was as much about mental growth as it was about physical change. She wasn’t seeking validation, nor was she aiming to fit into a predetermined mold.
“I’ve learned to value myself beyond the surface,” Nicola said. She no longer wants to engage with the constant discussions around her body. “All I care about is doing good acting, and if that means losing weight, gaining weight, or staying the same, that’s my choice. It’s personal.”
A Red Carpet Transformation: Nicola at the British Fashion Awards 2024
Nicola’s weight loss journey took center stage when she attended the British Fashion Awards 2024 at London’s Royal Albert Hall. Her appearance at the event drew widespread admiration, not just for her incredible look but also for her embrace of her new, confident self. Nicola presented the British Womenswear Designer of the Year award to the Dublin-born designer Simone Rocha, further underscoring her pride in Irish talent. Nicola’s stylish, form-fitting black gown with intricate embellishments made her a standout at the event, reflecting her evolved style and confidence.
Nicola’s presence at the awards, where fashion’s best gathered to celebrate achievements in the industry, showed her close ties to the fashion community. As she continues to make strides in her acting career, her status as a style icon is becoming increasingly evident. As she put it, “Fashion is not just about clothes; it’s about expressing who you are, and I feel more myself now than I ever have.” The event also saw memorable performances by artists like Debbie Harry and Wizkid, making it a night to remember.
Setting the Record Straight
One thing Nicola wants to make absolutely clear is that her journey is her own. She has been vocal about the challenges she faced, especially around the unrealistic expectations placed on women in the entertainment industry. Nicola has always tried to remain true to herself, and her latest transformation is no exception. “The whole conversation about my body is exhausting. I’m tired of people asking about it. Whether I lose or gain, I should not have to justify it,” she said emphatically.
This focus on self-love is evident in her day-to-day life. “I don’t want people thinking they have to follow in my footsteps or do what I did to feel good about themselves,” Nicola added. She encourages others to find their own version of healthy—one that makes them feel powerful and authentic.
A New Chapter in Her Career
With the third season of Bridgerton looming, Nicola is ready to embrace her character Penelope once more. “I love Penelope, I love who she is,” Nicola said, emphasizing that Penelope’s value was never about her size. And while Nicola has transformed physically, her commitment to portraying Penelope authentically remains unchanged. “Penelope is funny, sharp, and she’s got a heart of gold. That’s what I want people to remember, not her weight.”
It’s a powerful reminder that the real journey here is not Nicola’s physical change but her journey towards self-acceptance and mental resilience. Nicola Coughlan’s weight loss story is not just about losing pounds—it’s about gaining a whole new perspective on what it means to love yourself.