Film icons in London’s Leicester Square
Today, two-time Academy Award® winner Renée Zellweger saw her beloved character brought to life in a brand-new statue, as Bridget Jones became the latest icon to join the acclaimed Scenes in the Square trail in London’s Leicester Square. The dynamic new sculpture was unveiled by Zellweger alongside co-stars Sally Phillips, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Leo Woodall, celebrating the newest chapter in the franchise, Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy. Director Michael Morris and Working Title co-chairman Eric Fellner also attended the ceremony, as fans gathered to witness this milestone moment. Bridget Jones’ creator, Helen Fielding, was present to see her iconic heroine become part of London’s cultural landscape.
Renée Zellweger shared:
“I may have been born in Texas, but London has always felt like a second home to me. It’s an honour to know that the mark Bridget has left on the city of London will now be everlasting. I’m grateful to have played a part in that.”
A New Landmark in Leicester Square
Located in the heart of London’s entertainment district, the statue captures Bridget Jones in her signature, perfectly imperfect charm. She now stands proudly alongside other cinematic legends including Harry Potter, Batman, Wonder Woman, Paddington, and Mary Poppins. This marks the first time a romantic comedy character has been celebrated as part of the Scenes in the Square trail, underscoring Bridget’s lasting influence on modern British cinema.
A Cultural Icon from Page to Screen
Bridget Jones first captured hearts through Helen Fielding’s groundbreaking novel Bridget Jones’s Diary, before making her film debut in 2001. With her relatable flaws, sharp humour, and unforgettable terminology—from “Smug Marrieds” to “f***wits”—Bridget redefined the romantic heroine for a new generation. Unlike the traditional Jane Austen-type ingénue, Bridget was bold, chaotic, flawed, and authentic, sparking a cultural shift in how romantic stories were told.
The franchise, produced by Working Title Films, has gone on to earn $900 million worldwide, becoming one of the most successful British film series in history.
Celebrating 25 Years of Bridget Jones
The release of Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy in January 2025 by Universal Pictures, StudioCanal, and Miramax marked a triumphant new era for the franchise. Directed by Michael Morris, the film became an instant hit, bringing Bridget’s journey full circle and paving the way for this celebratory statue unveiling—perfect timing for the 25th anniversary of the original film.
Helen Fielding on Bridget’s Lasting Legacy
Author Helen Fielding expressed her joy at seeing Bridget join Leicester Square’s prestigious line-up:
“For Bridget to be honoured as a British icon alongside Paddington Bear, Mary Poppins and Admiral Lord Nelson (alright, he’s down the road a bit!) is a huge thrill. I hope Bridget’s Mummy Pants will ensure a sleek silhouette for this exciting statue unveiling. Let’s all raise a glass of Chardonnay to being ‘just as you are.’”
About Scenes in the Square
Launched five years ago as a free public attraction, Scenes in the Square celebrates a century of film history and Leicester Square’s legacy of iconic movie premieres. Supported by Westminster City Council and run by Discover Leicester Square, the trail continues to expand—most recently adding Daniel Kaluuya’s character Chris Washington from Get Out. Bridget Jones now proudly joins this star-studded collection.
What Need to Know
– A new bronze statue of Bridget Jones has been unveiled in London’s Leicester Square, placing the beloved character among other legendary film icons.
– The unveiling celebrates the 25th anniversary of the first Bridget Jones film, released in 2001.
– Renée Zellweger, who portrays Bridget, and Helen Fielding, the author who created her, attended the ceremony.
– The statue is the newest addition to the Scenes in the Square trail, a popular public attraction honouring 100 years of cinema history.
– The franchise’s latest film, Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy (2025), follows Bridget’s life as a widow and single mother after the death of Mark Darcy.
