The third season of Bridgerton delivered some surprising twists for the seemingly irredeemable character, Cressida Cowper. Jessica Madsen, who masterfully portrays this character, sheds light on an alternate ending that could have significantly altered viewers’ perception of her role.
Madsen’s Insight Into Cressida’s Fate
In a revealing interview, Madsen disclosed, We did shoot a different ending. I don’t know whether she is going to her aunt’s because we actually don’t see her aunt in the carriage. So, it could be that she’s off somewhere by herself.
This hint at a more open-ended conclusion leaves fans speculating about Cressida’s true destiny and potential return.
The Unseen Underbelly Of Cressida’s Journey
The journey depicted in Season 3 included some dark turns. Throughout Part 2, Cressida faced dire consequences after attempting to blackmail Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton. Despite this descent, Jess Brownell, co-showrunner of Bridgerton, spoke about maintaining narrative flexibility: I have definitely thought ahead for Cressida. I was very intentional about leaving the door open for her story.
The Lost Laternative Ending With Lady Cowper
An alternative ending was also filmed where Lady Cowper chose her daughter in a visually symbolic moment. Madsen elaborated on this, saying, [In the first ending we shot], Lady Cowper actually came to save her, and got in the carriage with her and they left together.
She even described the symbolic props used: I had a caged bird in my hair with a little door and Lady Cowper had the key.
A Window To Season 4 And Beyond
Brownell confirmed the deliberate choice to keep Cressida’s storyline open-ended to explore further dimensions of her character. This choice provides an interesting pivot point for the next season. As he explained: It felt like an ending for Cressida…we intentionally wanted to leave it so that we can tell a bit more story with Cressida next season.
Cultural Reflections Through Character Arcs
This exploration into Cressida’s complex narrative layers reveals how television can reflect broader societal themes and personal stories. Madsen herself has been candid about her own identity shifts and has openly shared about embracing various roles both on-screen and off.
Madsen’s journey with Cressida might be as tumultuous off-screen as it is on-screen. With more stories seemingly set to unfold, viewers are left wondering what future intrigues await the Ton’s unpredictable schemer.
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