Renee Zellweger Celebrates 25 Years of Bridget Jones with Statue Unveiling

Oscar-winning actress Renee Zellweger, recognized for her role as the beloved Bridget Jones in all four films, graced the unveiling of a statue in Leicester Square on Monday, marking a quarter-century since the release of Bridget Jones's Diary. This occasion celebrated not only the character's cultural significance but also the affection surrounding the film series.

“It’s quite surreal. You never really anticipate something like this... it’s definitely a surprise,” Zellweger remarked to reporters during the ceremony.

The statue captures Bridget Jones with her hair pulled back, attired in a mini skirt while holding a pen and diary—an image fans of the series will instantly recognize. “She’s just adorable... really charming. Looks just like Bridget to me,” Zellweger added.

Created by author Helen Fielding over 30 years ago, the character of Bridget Jones first emerged in a newspaper column that detailed her romantic escapades and struggles. Fielding's original book, Bridget Jones's Diary, hit the shelves in 1996 and rapidly became a bestseller. Three subsequent books further investigated Bridget’s journeys through love and career.

The cinematic adaptation of Bridget Jones's Diary in 2001 featured Zellweger alongside Hugh Grant and Colin Firth, becoming an immediate classic. The series continued with Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004), Bridget Jones's Baby (2016), and the upcoming Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy (2025).

Fielding reflected on Bridget’s enduring charm, stating, “My daughter's generation connects with Bridget, which is incredibly meaningful to me as that rarely happens. I feel very fortunate, and yes, I take pride in Bridget.”

The statue is part of the Scenes in the Square trail, which celebrates legendary film figures through life-sized sculptures situated in Leicester Square—a central location for film premieres and cinema events. Launched in 2020, this initiative also showcases statues of iconic figures like Laurel and Hardy, Batman, and others.

This initiative is designed to honor characters that have influenced popular culture and motivated generations of moviegoers. The addition of Bridget Jones not only recognizes the character’s 25-year legacy but also highlights the films' ongoing appeal to both veteran fans and new audiences alike.

Bridget Jones continues to be one of the most relatable and cherished icons in modern pop culture. Through her witty and straightforward narration and unforgettable love and career misadventures, Bridget has connected with audiences across the years. The statue stands as a testament to her legacy and underscores the impact of Fielding’s creation, Zellweger’s unforgettable performance, and the films that brought Bridget to the silver screen.