Simone Ashley Is Redefining the Modern Rom-Com Lead

Simone Ashley is stepping into her rom-com era with Picture This, a fresh take on classic romance infused with culture, humor, and heart. Growing up on British rom-coms like Notting Hill and Bridget Jones’s Diary, she longed to see someone like herself at the center of these glossy love stories. Now, she’s bringing that vision to life.

Her latest film, Picture This, soared to the top of Prime Video’s streaming charts upon release. The story follows Pia Jaswani, a passionate but struggling photographer navigating love, family, and fate. In the midst of wedding festivities, Pia finds herself reluctantly thrown into a whirlwind of blind dates—only to realize that her first love, Charlie, is never quite out of the picture. With a cast rich in South Asian talent, the film celebrates culture while telling a universally relatable story about love and self-discovery.

Beyond starring in the film, Ashley also takes on the role of executive producer, ensuring an authentic portrayal of her heritage without falling into clichés. Rather than playing into stereotypes, Picture This finds humor in its characters’ quirks, allowing them to shine in their own right.

Ashley has been a trailblazer in Hollywood, paving the way for better representation and embracing roles that break barriers. She first captivated audiences as Kate Sharma in Bridgerton, and since then, she has carved out a space where young women of color can see themselves in leading roles. From starring in an upcoming F1 film alongside Brad Pitt to working on her debut album, her ambitions extend far beyond the screen.

As she continues to take on new projects, Bridgerton remains close to her heart. Though Kate and Anthony’s love story took a backseat in season three, Ashley is set to return, promising more heartfelt moments—and possibly a new chapter in their growing family. While fans eagerly anticipate what’s next, one thing is clear: Simone Ashley is defining what it means to be a modern rom-com heroine, on and off the screen.