Bridgerton’s Gay Star James Phoon Excited for Queer Storyline
James Phoon, a rising British star, joins the cast of Netflix’s hit show Bridgerton for season 3. He plays Harry Dankworth, Prudence Featherington’s new husband.
“Bridgerton puts diversity at the forefront,” Phoon tells PinkNews.
Phoon, an out gay actor with British and East-Asian heritage, is thrilled about the show’s promise to introduce an LGBTQIA+ romance in the future.
“These people existed – different races, gender identities, sexualities. The spotlight just hasn’t been on them.”
“Increasing representation is so important”
Phoon talks about becoming Harry, being part of the Featheringtons, and why more gay actors should play straight roles.
“Harry is an endearing, Regency himbo. He’s not the typical alpha male bachelor. He loves the idea of love and wants to be the perfect husband.”
“I wanted to make sure he was likable, with a lot of heart, even if he doesn’t always get it right.”
Phoon is excited about the potential queer story. “In the past, I felt there wasn’t a place for me in period dramas. But there were Chinese people living in Britain in the 1800s. It’s possible there were mixed-race children like me.”
Phoon appreciates the opportunity as a gay actor to play a straight role. “An actor doesn’t need to fit the reality of their character. Sexuality is just one fragment of who we are.”
The first 4 episodes of Bridgerton season 3 are streaming on Netflix from May 16. The second 4 episodes will be available from June 13.
