Bridgerton has taken the western audience by storm, and left them with appreciation for the people of color and Indian actors who have played big roles for the success of the seasons.

Decades have passed with few roles given to South Asian actors in Hollywood despite over 4 million Indians residing in the United States. With new series involving characters who are people of color, there seems to be hope for their future in Hollywood.

“Hollywood should definitely continue incorporating more Indian culture and I do think there was slow progress, but now that shows like Bridgerton and Never Have I Ever exist, there seems to be much more progress and continuity which I think we can all admire and get inspired from,” said Bhavya Yanamandra (‘23).

Within Bollywood itself there has been a stigma built around darker skinned Indians, better known as colorism, and with Hollywood appreciating these features, there is praise from people who have long felt these injustices.

“After seeing Bridgerton there seems to be a brighter light for South Asian actors, specifically for darker skinned actors who have been looked down upon in Bollywood itself. Seeing aspects like earrings made out of gold and bangles that are passed down hereditarily being worn for one’s weddings help the Indian culture showcase itself around the world,” said Ananya Niranjan (‘25).

The two South Indian Actresses have portrayed many aspects of their cultures into the second season of Bridgerton, creating fans to gush over many of the scenes.

“They [Simone Ashley and Charithra Chandran] both portrayed royalty very well and have intertwined Indian roots in it as well such as putting Haldi before marriage as part of rituals and calling their dad “Appa”. It’s those little things that really makes me feel like I’m also appreciated and my culture is as well,” said Yanamandra.

Alongside Bridgerton, shows such as Never Have I Ever and movies such as Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham have had a positive impact in incorporating Indian culture into the Hollywood scene. 

“Since Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham is such a famous Indian movie, it has spread a little into American and western culture. There might be more opportunities for South Asians to get recognition here in Hollywood,” said Sid Mane (‘23).

Though diversity being incorporated into Hollywood movies and TV shows is a long time coming, there is a major change happening in the 21st century. 

​​“I think naturally as our [South Asian] population and position in American society continues to grow, our voice will continue to increase along with it. Especially in this climate of social justice and equal representation, I think we can expect to see more of this,” said Adi Lankipalle (‘23).