Bridgerton’s Nicola Coughlan reveals she was ‘terrified’ to film sex scenes on new season of the Netflix drama

She replaced Phoebe Dynevor as Bridgerton’s protagonist and, like her predecessor, will appear in a number of steamy and risky sex scenes.

Nicola Coughlan, 37, who was cast as Penelope Featherington for the third series of the Netflix bonkbuster, revealed she was “terrified” to film the intimate moments with co-star Luke Newton – because She’s Irish.

The third series, the first part of which airs on May 16, will see Ms Fetherington pursue Colin Bridgerton, played by Mr Newton, 31.

As Irish women still tend to have a reputation for being prudish, Ms Coughland told the Six O’Clock Show that she initially thought she couldn’t do the steamy scenes.

“I’m so excited, I can’t wait,” she said. “It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Luke Newton, who plays my love interest, is so wonderful.

“And even my wig has been improved. This season is really funny and romantic, they incorporated a lot of romantic comedy elements.

“And it’s not one to watch with family. Take from it what you will.

“It was terrifying. I’m an Irish girl, and any Irish girl would feel like she couldn’t do that.

“And then I went and realized it was my job, so I would do better.”

“I had a great partner, and it was terrifying, but really liberating. I was exhausted by the end.

The third series of the hit Regency romance, which follows the eight Bridgerton siblings as they try to find love, will continue the love story of Penelope and Colin.

Phoebe Dynevor, 28, starred in the period drama’s first season – which saw her take part in several sex scenes with actor Rege-Jean Page, 35.

In the season two finale, Penelope overheard Colin’s sarcastic comments to the other gentleman about him and decided to finally let go of one of her long unrequited feelings for him.

Penelope decided to take a husband in season three, who will hopefully allow her to continue her double life as Lady Whistledown, a gossip source who writes newsletters about social news.

On the other hand, Colin returns with a new swagger but is disheartened to find that his close girlfriend Penelope, who still likes him, is giving him the cold shoulder.

Colin is desperate to repair his relationship with Penelope and offers to help her build her confidence to find a husband.

When her lessons begin to pay off for her, Colin must decide if her feelings are friendly or something more.

Speaking to The One Show on Wednesday night, she said the romance scenes had prompted her to ask for a PG version for her parents to watch.

“It’s a very action-packed season,” she said.

“I got to see some last night and I was bouncing off the walls with excitement.

“She (Penelope) did her time, she waited, it was time for Penelope.

“I asked for a PG version for my family because I don’t. Plus, after seeing it last night, I really don’t do that.

“Watch it with your mother if you want, I won’t watch it with mine.” I’ll have to get him a separate Netflix account.