Yerin Ha on Starring in "Bridgerton" and Growing Up Korean in Australia

Last Saturday, as midnight struck in Paris at the 19th-century Palais Brongniart, Australian actress Yerin Ha was departing a premiere event. She was wearing a blue satin Prada gown lined with crystals, an ensemble reminiscent of a fairytale.

A Rising Star in the Regency World

Ha’s appearance marked a significant moment: the premiere of Season Four of Bridgerton, the popular Regency-era series produced by Shonda Rhimes and based on the romance novels by Julia Quinn. The new season is set to return to Netflix next week. Ha takes on the lead role of Sophie Baek, described as a maid and the illegitimate daughter of a nobleman.

Her character is poised to become the love interest of Benedict Bridgerton, the second-oldest Bridgerton son and a character known for being a seemingly perpetual bachelor.

A Family Legacy

Prior to this role, Yerin Ha was largely unknown to a global audience. However, her passion for performance appears deeply rooted in her family history. She states, “I think in my blood I always wanted to be an entertainer.”

Her grandparents, Son Sook and Kim Seong-Ok, were prominent figures in the Seoul theater community during the late 20th century. Son Sook, in particular, achieved significant recognition, winning six Baeksang Arts Awards – often referred to as the Korean Oscars – for her work in film and television.

Ha credits seeing her grandmother perform in a one-woman show as the catalyst for her own decision to pursue acting professionally.

Did You Know? Yerin Ha’s grandmother, Son Sook, received six Baeksang Arts Awards during her career.

Expert Insight: The casting of a relatively unknown actress in a leading role within a globally popular series like Bridgerton signals a willingness to introduce fresh talent and potentially broaden the show’s appeal. This strategy could attract new viewers curious to see Ha’s performance and the unfolding storyline.

The success of Bridgerton Season Four could further elevate Ha’s profile, potentially leading to more prominent roles in future projects. It is also possible that the series will continue to explore diverse characters and storylines, building on the introduction of Sophie Baek.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Yerin Ha?

Yerin Ha is an Australian actress who plays Sophie Baek in Season Four of Bridgerton. Prior to this role, she was mostly unknown to a global audience.

What is Sophie Baek’s role in Bridgerton Season Four?

Sophie Baek is a maid and the illegitimate daughter of a nobleman who becomes the love interest of Benedict Bridgerton.

What is the background of Yerin Ha’s family?

Yerin Ha’s grandparents, Son Sook and Kim Seong-Ok, were prominent figures in the Seoul theater community, with Son Sook winning six Baeksang Arts Awards.

Will Yerin Ha’s performance resonate with audiences and establish her as a leading actress in the entertainment industry?

Yerin Ha on Starring in “Bridgerton” and Growing Up Korean in Australia