In a surprising turn of events, the beloved Bridget Jones series has returned with its latest installment, "Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy." This film reunites the original cast, including Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth, and Hugh Grant, while introducing fresh faces such as Chiwetel Ejiofor, Leo Woodall, and Isla Fisher. Directed by Michael Morris, this sequel to 2016’s "Bridget Jones's Baby" explores the life of a widowed single mother navigating new romantic relationships and parenthood. Despite the stellar cast, the movie bypassed traditional theatrical release in the United States and made its debut on Peacock. The franchise, based on Helen Fielding's books, continues to captivate audiences with its humor and relatable characters.
A New Era for Bridget Jones
In the enchanting autumn of 2025, "Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy" graces streaming platforms, marking a significant moment for fans of the series. Set against the backdrop of London, the story unfolds as Zellweger's character finds herself juggling motherhood and romantic pursuits. After the tragic loss of her husband, Bridget now faces the complexities of dating again. Her heart is torn between Roxster, played by Leo Woodall, a much younger man, and Scott Wallaker, portrayed by Chiwetel Ejiofor, a teacher at her children’s school. Meanwhile, she maintains a close friendship with Hugh Grant’s Daniel Cleaver, a recurring love interest from previous films.
The film, directed by Michael Morris, serves as a direct sequel to "Bridget Jones's Baby," which was released in 2016. Unlike its predecessors, this latest entry did not receive a theatrical release in the U.S., instead premiering exclusively on Peacock. For those eager to revisit Bridget’s world, the platform offers an affordable subscription starting at just $29.99 per year. The rest of the series can be found on Max, available either as part of a bundle with Disney+ and Hulu or as a standalone subscription.
Based on Helen Fielding's novels, the Bridget Jones saga began in 1996 with "Bridget Jones's Diary," followed by "The Edge of Reason" in 2001. The subsequent books, "Mad About the Boy" (2013) and "Bridget Jones’s Baby" (2016), were adapted into films in reverse order. Each book captures Bridget’s humorous yet poignant journey through life’s challenges, making them timeless classics for fans of contemporary literature.
From the pages of Fielding's books to the screen, the Bridget Jones series remains a cultural touchstone, resonating with audiences who see themselves in Bridget’s struggles and triumphs. As the series evolves, it continues to offer a heartfelt and hilarious exploration of modern life, love, and family.
As a journalist, I find the transition of this beloved series from print to screen particularly fascinating. It highlights the enduring appeal of Bridget Jones and the universal themes of love, loss, and self-discovery that resonate across generations. The choice to premiere "Mad About the Boy" on a streaming platform also reflects the changing landscape of film distribution, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and convenience for today’s viewers. Ultimately, this new chapter in the Bridget Jones saga promises to delight both longtime fans and newcomers alike, proving that some stories are truly timeless.