South African actress makes surprise appearance on 'Bridgerton'
Masali Baduza made a brief appearance in the last episode of 'Bridgerton' but her character has a big role to play in future seasons...
SPOILER ALERT: Season 3 and potential upcoming plots mentioned
Season 3 of Netflix's much-loved series, 'Bridgerton', was filled with many twists and turns, but many South Africans did not see this major plot twist coming.
Local actress Masali Baduza made a surprise appearance in the final episode as John Stirling's cousin, Michaela.
Her appearance was brief, but there was nothing random about it. The season ended with John marrying Francesca Bridgerton. They prepare to jet off to his castle in Scotland.
John introduces Francesca to Michaela at the Dankworth-Finch ball. There is a clear spark between Michaela and Francesca.
If you have read the 'Bridgerton' books then you know what comes next.
MAJOR SPOILERS AHEAD
In Francesca's story, Michaela is actually a man named Michael. He has a close bond with Francesca and John.
However, when John dies two years after their marriage, a romance develops between Francesca and Michael.
Masali's cameo might have been short-lived, but she is set to have a major role in future seasons of 'Bridgerton'.
The added gender flip - changing Michael to Michaela - is sure to raise some eyebrows among fans of the books, but we have no doubt that executive producer Shonda Rhimes has a great story lined up for viewers.
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From The Woman King to Bridgerton, Masali Baduza is making sure that we're eating tew gewd! 🇿🇦💅 pic.twitter.com/lFqpSBn8nn
— NetflixSA (@NetflixSA) June 14, 2024
Who is Masali Baduza AKA Michaela Stirling?
Masali Baduza is making quite the name for herself in Hollywood. She starred alongside fellow South African Thuso Mbedu in the Viola Davis-led movie, 'The Woman King'.
Masali also appeared in the British drama series, 'Noughts + Crosses'.
She graduated from the New York Film Academy and holds an associate of fine arts (AFA) degree.
'Bridgerton' showrunner Jess Brownell revealed in an interview with Glamour magazine that she was blown away by the chemistry between Masali and Hannah Dodd, who plays Francesca.
"She’s absolutely fantastic. She is based in South Africa, and we flew her out the moment we saw her tape to do a chemistry read with Hannah. She absolutely nailed it. I remember the moment Hannah met Masali. After Masali left, she said, “Well, that’s her.” Hannah could feel it," she said.
Jess described Masali as an "incredible actress" who understands the weight and importance of her role.
"She’s really stepped into it with wonderful energy. I can’t wait for people to get to know her more. I’m just sad that people are only getting to meet her for those 10 seconds at the end of season 3 because she’s incredible."
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Main image credit: Instagram/Masali Baduza