Katie Leung Shares Insights on Araminta’s Relationship with Sophie and Adding Depth to Her Stepmother Character in Bridgerton Season 4

SPOILER ALERT: This article reveals details from Part 1 of Bridgerton Season 4.

Actress Katie Leung, known for her role in the Harry Potter series, portrays the complex character of Araminta Gunn (formerly Li) in Season 4 of Bridgerton. Araminta embodies the wicked stepmother archetype in the Cinderella-inspired narrative involving Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha) and Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson), drawing from Julia Quinn’s novel An Offer From a Gentleman.

Once married to Viscount Li and mother to two daughters, played by Michelle Mao and Isabella Wei, Araminta initially appeared as an unassuming figure. However, she soon devolves into a bitter antagonist who burdens Sophie with endless chores and responsibilities. Unbeknownst to her at first, Araminta enters a marriage complicated by a secret: the Earl of Penwood’s illegitimate daughter, connected to a deceased maid.

Araminta’s actions inadvertently push Sophie towards a reunion with Benedict in the countryside after Sophie is forcibly sent away. Understanding Sophie’s motivations, Araminta realizes that Sophie’s attendance at Lady Violet Bridgerton’s Masquerade Ball is due to Benedict’s interest.

“You do still see those glimpses of Araminta making that decision and discovering that there is the option that she probably hadn’t considered before,” Leung commented on her character’s evolving dynamic with Sophie. “In a way, she still, in very small amounts, did care for Sophie, or felt like she was her responsibility.”

Leung hinted at more revelations about Araminta in Part 2 of the series, discussing key moments that highlight the character’s depth.

DEADLINE: Araminta is a major antagonist, but how did you find her humanity to create a multi-dimensional character?

LEUNG: Her impact is significant, even when she’s not present, contributing to the separation of Benedict and Sophie. At her core, she grapples with personal struggles, unveiling moments where she experiences betrayal. Exploring this complexity allows actors to delve deep into their characters, and I was fortunate to do that with Araminta.

DEADLINE: Regarding your pivotal scenes, such as her first encounter with Sophie and the funeral scene…

LEUNG: I thoroughly enjoyed these scenes. The flashback segment was shot later in the process, and it was crucial to contrast Araminta’s current state with her earlier joy, shattered by betrayal. Seeing that split-second transition was vital. The funeral scene, too, was layered; while manipulative, I believe she genuinely thought she was helping Sophie. The costume in that scene was one of my favorites.

DEADLINE: That veil was stunning!

LEUNG: Right? It added an extra touch.

DEADLINE: Will we see her in different colors in Part 2?

LEUNG: Yes, while I think they maintain darker tones, there may be moments of color beyond black.

DEADLINE: Araminta’s actions, like hiring maids from other households, appear to serve the greater good…

LEUNG: Absolutely! She takes pride in empowering the working class, even if her reputation suffers. Despite the complaints from the maids, they should recognize the benefits.

DEADLINE: How did you approach the scene where Araminta confronts and fires Sophie?

LEUNG: This scene was challenging but essential. I aimed to ensure Araminta’s motivations were clear. The stakes were high as she weighed manipulation against truth. The final version took a more straightforward approach, but it was rewarding to tackle such a pivotal moment with Yerin.

DEADLINE: As Part 1 concludes with Araminta and her daughters moving next to the Bridgertons, what can fans expect in Part 2?

LEUNG: Fans should anticipate more drama and intrigue, complemented by the character Varley, who will play a significant role in the unfolding cat-and-mouse dynamic.

(L to R) Isabella Wei as Posy Li, Katie Leung as Lady Araminta Gao, Michelle Mao as Rosamund Li in episode 401 of Bridgerton.
Liam Daniel/Netflix

L-R: Isabella Wei as Posy Li, Katie Leung as Lady Araminta Gun and Michelle Mao as Rosamund Li in Season 4 of Bridgerton.
Liam Daniel/Netflix