Bridgerton Star Adjoa Andoh Calls for More LGBTQ+ Storylines in Hit Series!

In the popular period series Bridgerton, actress Adjoa Andoh has earned a vast number of fresh admirers by portraying the captivating and influential Lady Danbury.

However, even before securing the Netflix role, Andoh had amassed a substantial career in various fields including soap operas, theater, and dramas. Now, he is also recognized as the voice of Channel 4’s Château DIY.

Originating from the picturesque Cotswolds region and wed to author Howard Cunnell, Andoh, aged 62, kick-started her professional journey while managing parenthood duties in the bustling Brixton district of south London.

She discusses with TopMob topics such as worldwide recognition, picking up bricklaying skills at a community center, the scarcity of art education funds in educational institutions, and the upcoming revival of Bridgerton.

How do you feel about the phenomenal success of Bridgerton?

It’s truly an honor to be in a position where… People express delight in watching period dramas with leading female characters and diverse ethnic representation. Some LGBTQ+ individuals have asked for more stories featuring their experiences, saying “We’ve had subtle hints; when can we see more of that?” Many people feel represented and connected by these portrayals.

And what do you tell them?

I won’t be led to a dimly-lit space by anyone! At the moment, I’m deep into filming the fourth season and all I can promise is more drama, emotion, and visual beauty ahead.

As a devoted movie enthusiast, I’d like to shed light on an innovative aspect of some early productions – color-conscious casting. In essence, this means intentionally choosing performers of color for roles. But why does this matter? It’s about representation and inclusivity, making sure that the stories being told reflect the diversity of our world, enriching our shared cinematic experience.

Enhancing storytelling, this new approach allows for a broader range of narratives, storytelling styles, and character types. It effectively broadens your potential audience as well. For instance, when I visit my family in Ghana, locals might rush over from across the street, thrilled about a costume drama set in Regency England. They connect with it uniquely due to this newfound method of storytelling.

Has it changed your life?

Over the course of my acting career, I’ve had the privilege of being part of popular shows like EastEnders, Casualty, and Doctor Who, which have made me quite recognizable to many people. However, with Netflix reaching audiences across the globe – from Thailand to America to Shropshire – the scope of recognition has expanded significantly. It’s a humbling experience to be recognized in such diverse places, knowing that I’m touching lives beyond my immediate surroundings. As I grow older, I find a sense of contentment settling in. Life, I realize, is a mix of unpredictable events and challenges, interspersed with moments of beauty. The gratitude I feel now seems to resonate at a deeper level, reminding me constantly of the blessings that have come my way.

In this series called “Château DIY”, we follow a group of daring British individuals as they embark on the challenging task of restoring grand chateaus in France.

Occasionally, I pause my work to exclaim, “Wow, that’s amazing, I’d love to create something like that.” If given another chance, I might have become an architect, and I do enjoy tinkering with DIY projects. The emotional dynamics between the couples and families are captivating too. After all, we all face challenges in our relationships, don’t we? It’s intriguing from various perspectives!

Would you consider purchasing and renovating a chateau on your own? Not a chance! While the French countryside where we shoot is stunning, and I’m quite fond of DIY projects, it’s a massive undertaking. I tip my hat to those who take it on every day.

Living in a squat during the ’80s in Brixton suggests that you likely developed quite a bit of self-reliance and resourcefulness, right?

Indeed, there were once charming Edwardian homes that had deteriorated and were used as squats. The council permitted us to renovate them, which turned into a communal effort with everyone contributing their unique talents, from glazing windows to bricklaying. An architect supervised us to ensure safety measures were followed, especially when dealing with potentially hazardous tasks like electricity work near water. This experience broadened my skills and knowledge, although I’m unsure if I could still perform those tasks today, I’ve certainly lost no fear of tackling such projects.

Are you recognized for playing leading roles at the Royal Shakespeare Company, the National Theatre, and Shakespeare’s Globe? What do you think about the current state of theater?

In some parts, West End theaters are experiencing a comeback, yet sadly, certain theaters are closing down. A single ticket could be equivalent to someone’s weekly grocery expenses. To ensure theaters remain relevant within our communities, it is essential not only to make them financially accessible but also to offer art and youth programs, as well as community events that cater to local residents.

Is it detrimental that some contemporary theatergoers disrupt performances with heckling or conversation? Could improving audience education help alleviate this issue?

Talking of schools, should there be more arts in the curriculum?

It’s crucial that we reinstate arts back into our educational programs. Arts are often viewed as mere decoration, but they play a significant role. We comprehend the world through narratives, and the Minister for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, strongly advocates for this perspective. I hope this administration maintains its commitment to this important aspect of education.

Instead of pouring substantial resources into infrastructure, it’s crucial that we now engage actively within the communities that have been deprived of youth centers, libraries, and local orchestras – areas where people are lacking these essential facilities.

Instead of loitering on the streets, kids prefer to engage in active activities. They crave attention and concern, especially when they’re late for choir practice or netball games. They need to grasp the concept of being a team player, showing empathy towards one another, and working together harmoniously. These are essential life skills. Although you might not become a member of a national orchestra, you will understand what it means to contribute to something that brings joy through music.

What are your thoughts on “Vengeance Most Fowl,” the Wallace and Gromit Christmas special from last year (where you provided the voice for the judge), receiving an Academy Award?

As a fellow Bristolian, I can’t help but feel a swell of pride when it comes to Aardman Animations. Being from this very city, their success feels like a testament to our creative spirit. Moreover, the fact that their work is family-friendly is something I truly appreciate, as it allows for shared, cherished moments with loved ones.

2025-04-04 10:36

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