Bridgerton Star Looks Totally Different in ‘Scandalous’ New Period Drama Based on a True Story
Bessie Carter, the actress who charmed audiences as the often-bemused Prudence Featherington in Netflix’s sensation “Bridgerton,” is poised to unveil a completely new on-screen persona. Stepping away from the corseted world of Regency England, Carter is set to star in “Outrageous,” a forthcoming period drama rooted in a truly scandalous true story from the 1930s. Early glimpses of Carter in this new role reveal a striking departure from her “Bridgerton” appearance, promising a captivating performance and a deep dive into a fascinating and controversial historical narrative.
Trading Regency Ribbons for 1930s Intrigue
In “Bridgerton,” Bessie Carter embodied the endearing awkwardness and societal aspirations of Prudence Featherington, one of the three Featherington sisters navigating the complexities of the marriage mart. Prudence, with her distinctive red hair and penchant for somewhat questionable fashion choices, provided moments of both humor and vulnerability within the opulent backdrop of the Ton.
Now, Carter is immersing herself in the world of the Mitford sisters, a real-life group of aristocratic English siblings who captivated and scandalized society in the interwar period. “Outrageous,” a six-part drama, will explore their intricate relationships, their diverging political ideologies, and the various controversies that surrounded their lives. Carter takes on the role of Nancy Mitford, the eldest sister, a sharp-witted novelist and socialite navigating a landscape of evolving social norms and looming political tensions.
The Real-Life Scandal of the Mitford Sisters
The story of the Mitford sisters is inherently dramatic and undeniably scandalous. Their lives were marked by both privilege and profound personal and political divides. From their unconventional upbringing in a large aristocratic family to their later notoriety, the sisters became figures of public fascination and, at times, intense criticism.
Their individual paths diverged dramatically. Some, like Nancy, became celebrated writers, while others, most notably Unity and Diana, became deeply involved with fascist ideologies, even becoming admirers of Adolf Hitler. This stark contrast in beliefs and allegiances created deep rifts within the family and made them a subject of intense public scrutiny during a pivotal period in history. “Outrageous” promises to delve into these complexities, exploring the personal motivations and societal forces that shaped their extraordinary and often shocking lives. The series is inspired by Mary Lovell’s acclaimed biography, “The Mitford Girls,” ensuring a foundation of historical accuracy for this compelling adaptation.
A Visually Arresting Transformation
The initial previews of Bessie Carter in “Outrageous” showcase a remarkable visual transformation. The flowing gowns and elaborate hairstyles of the Regency era have been replaced by the sleek silhouettes and shorter, more modern hairstyles of the 1930s. Carter, now sporting a chic, dark bob, embodies the sophisticated yet often politically charged atmosphere of the era.
This change in appearance is more than just a costume shift; it signifies Carter’s immersion into a completely different character and historical context. The 1930s, with its burgeoning social changes and the ominous rise of fascism, provides a stark contrast to the more contained world of “Bridgerton.” Carter’s new look hints at the complexities and potential turmoil her character, Nancy Mitford, will navigate.
What Awaits in “Outrageous”
“Outrageous” is poised to be a captivating period drama that goes beyond the romantic escapism often associated with the genre. By focusing on the true story of the Mitford sisters, the series promises to explore themes of family dynamics, political polarization, social change, and the consequences of individual choices against a backdrop of significant historical events.
Bessie Carter’s portrayal of Nancy Mitford, a central figure in this complex family, is highly anticipated. Known for her wit and literary talent, Nancy navigated a world of both privilege and personal challenges. Carter’s ability to convey both strength and vulnerability will be crucial in bringing this multifaceted character to life. The ensemble cast, featuring Joanna Vanderham, Shannon Watson, Zoe Brough, Orla Hill, and Isobel Jesper Jones as her sisters, further heightens the anticipation for a nuanced portrayal of this extraordinary family.
A Bold New Direction for Bessie Carter
For Bessie Carter, “Outrageous” represents an exciting new chapter in her acting career. It offers her the opportunity to shed the skin of Prudence Featherington and demonstrate her range and depth as a performer. Stepping into the shoes of a real historical figure like Nancy Mitford presents a unique set of challenges and rewards, allowing Carter to explore a more mature and complex character within a dramatically different historical setting.
This role has the potential to significantly broaden Carter’s audience and showcase her versatility beyond the confines of the “Bridgerton” universe. Fans who have come to know and love her as Prudence will undoubtedly be intrigued to see her take on such a contrasting role in a drama with significant historical weight and scandalous undertones. “Outrageous” promises to be a must-watch for those interested in compelling character-driven narratives and a glimpse into a fascinating and often overlooked period of history.
The Enduring Appeal of True Scandal
The enduring appeal of stories based on true scandals lies in their ability to reveal the often-hidden complexities and contradictions within human nature and society. The story of the Mitford sisters is no exception. Their lives, filled with both glamour and controversy, offer a compelling lens through which to examine the social and political currents of their time.
“Outrageous,” with Bessie Carter at its center, promises to tap into this enduring fascination. By bringing the scandalous true story of the Mitford sisters to the screen with a talented cast and a compelling narrative, the series has the potential to captivate a wide audience eager for historical drama with a compelling edge. The stark contrast between Carter’s beloved “Bridgerton” character and her new, more intense role only adds to the intrigue surrounding this highly anticipated series.
