Australian actor Yerin Ha has discussed the challenges and triumphs of playing Sophie Baek in the record-breaking Netflix series "Bridgerton". In an interview with Business Insider, the 28-year-old detailed her experience joining the established cast, filming intimate scenes, and her character's unique journey as a maid who falls for a Bridgerton son.
Ha's portrayal of Sophie, the illegitimate daughter of a nobleman, has been central to the fourth season's plot, which focuses on her romance with Benedict Bridgerton, played by Luke Thompson. The season's narrative hinges on the social class obstacle between them, a departure from the nobility-centric love stories of previous seasons.
Controversial Proposal and Viral Reaction
A key plot point that sparked intense online debate was Benedict's proposal for Sophie to become his mistress at the end of Part One. Ha described reading the scene as "emotional and infuriating," comparing it to "being asked to be your fuck buddy" and labelling it "an absolute red flag moment."
"I've been surprised by how viral it's gone online," Ha stated regarding the fan reaction. "The debate is quite intense." She expressed initial curiosity about how the character of Benedict could redeem himself after such a proposition, noting that overcoming obstacles is central to the show's drama.
Navigating Intimacy and Agency On Screen
Ha admitted to being "super nervous" about filming the series' signature intimacy scenes, citing the daunting prospect of having her body discussed by a global audience. "It's the first time I'm exposing myself in that kind of way," she said.
She overcame her fears by framing the scenes as a narrative of deep passion and mutual rapture between the characters, ensuring they never felt "gratuitous or token." She credited co-star Luke Thompson as a trusted scene partner and noted that levity on set helped during filming.
The show's depiction of Sophie's sexual agency—where she tracks her cycle and clearly communicates her boundaries with Benedict—resonated with Ha. "A man who actually respects a woman's boundaries... is very, very important to be shown on screen," she emphasised, connecting it to broader themes of self-worth.
Embracing Queer Narratives and Future Struggles
Addressing the show's inclusion of queer love stories, Ha praised "Bridgerton" for showcasing diverse forms of love. She explained Sophie's quick acceptance of Benedict's past relationships with men and women as stemming from her own life of being misunderstood. "Love is love at the end of the day," Ha said, encouraging viewers to welcome such stories with an open mind.
While the season ends with Sophie and Benedict united, Ha speculated on potential challenges for Season Five. If Sophie were to become nobility in the London house where she once worked, Ha believes the character would "really struggle" to undo 16 years of ingrained habit.
"I think she would still serve food for people, or take flowers from people," Ha mused, hoping the show would continue to explore the "downstairs world" and Sophie's relationships with former colleagues like her friend Hazel.
Difficult Scenes and Career Acceleration
Ha identified emotionally exposing confession scenes and the first-ever "Bridgerton" prison sequence as particularly challenging to film. She stressed the importance of serving the story's intention over personal nerves.
The role has significantly accelerated Ha's career, elevating her to a new level of recognition in Hollywood. She joins a list of "Bridgerton" cast members, including Phoebe Dynevor and Jonathan Bailey, whose profiles have been dramatically raised by the show.
The second part of "Bridgerton" Season Four is now streaming on Netflix. Scripts for a potential fifth season have been distributed to cast members.