Get To Know Simone Ashley: The 'Bridgerton' Season 2 Star's Family Finds Her Career 'Scary & Unsettling'

Set to play Kate Sharma, the elder sister of Anthony Bridgerton's intended high society bride Edwina, Simone Ashley has broken ground to become the first actress of Indian heritage in the series.

In season 2 of the drama series "Bridgerton," Simone Ashley, 26, will be the leading lady. She'll be taking over from Daphne, played by Phoebe Dynevor, who had an electrifying stint with the Duke of Hastings in season one.

While "Bridgerton" was praised for the diversity in casting, portraying biracial and black actors in some of the most prominent roles, the first season did not feature any actors of Asian descent.

In the first season, some of the main characters include Lady Danbury, played by Adjoa Andoh, a British-Ghanian, while Regé-Jean Page, who plays the Duke of Hastings, is British-Zimbabwean.

A PEEK INTO SEASON TWO

Ashley will play Anthony's love interest, and lucky for her, she is not new to playing kinky scenes. She also plays Olivia on the Netflix hit show "Sex Education," a highly relatable drama-comedy that chronicles a group of teens as they navigate their sexuality.

While fans are curious to know what the second season holds in store for them, they are hopeful that it will be as passionate and sweeping as the first season.

The executive producer promises that the season will be just as beautiful as the first. With Daphne, now married to the Duke of Hastings, the second season will focus on Anthony Bridgerton.

Initially, the stubborn bachelor has his eyes set on Edwina Sharma, but Kate vows to prevent her sister from marrying him. In an unexpected twist, Kate instead falls in love with Anthony.

PURSUING A CAREER IN FILM

Now famous for her roles in other films such as "Boogie Man," breaking the barriers was not an easy fit. Ashley was born in London, and as is common with Indian parents, hers wanted her to pursue a traditional career.

While she grew up in a household ridden with accountants, doctors, and engineers, Ashley always knew she wanted to be in the creative field. Becoming a doctor or a lawyer was never how she envisioned her future. She studied acting at the ArtsEd School in Chiswick.

She soon started landing roles in the industry. However, despite her showing a promising future in film, her family finds her career choice scary and unsettling, seeing as there is no guarantee or security. Ashley says her career choice is her parent's worst nightmare.