Renée Zellweger Returns as Bridget Jones in 'Mad About the Boy'

Renée Zellweger is set to reprise her iconic role as Bridget Jones in the highly anticipated fourth installment of the beloved film series, titled 'Mad About the Boy.' The upcoming movie,scheduled for a Valentine's Day 2025 release in the United States, will follow Bridget as she navigates life as a widow and single mother after the death of her husband, Mark Darcy.

Based on Helen Fielding's 2013 novel of the same name, the film will see Bridget, now in her 50s, raising two children alone while likely also exploring new romantic prospects. Behind-the-scenes photos show Zellweger in character, still wearing her wedding ring, hinting at the character's grief and heartache following the loss of her husband.

Hugh Grant, who played Mark Darcy's rival Daniel Cleaver in the previous films, is set to return, though his role may be limited. Grant confirmed Mark Darcy's death, stating,"It's based on trying to bring up two children alone, and then [it's] all mixed up in the Bridget Jones [style] comedy, so it's very sad, as well as very funny. It has me in tears. "backDame Emma Thompson will also reprise her role as Dr. Rawlings, while new cast members include Chiwetel Ejiofor and Leo Woodall.

The original Bridget Jones's Diary, released in 2001, was a global success, grossing $222 million at the box office. The film, which starred Zellweger as a 30-something singleton navigating love and career in London, spawned two sequels: Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004) and Bridget Jones's Baby (2016). Much of the filming for the series took place inbridgeiconic locations around London, including Bridget's flat in London Bridge, now estimated to be worth nearly £1 million.

'Mad About the Boy' will be directed by Michael Morris and produced by Universal Pictures with co-financing from Miramax.backSir Peter Jackson will serve as a producer. Zellweger, who has won two Academy Awards, including one for her leading role as Judy Garland in 2020, is poised to bring her signature charm and relatability to this new chapter in Bridget Jones's life.

As fans eagerly await the release of 'Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy,' the film promises to deliver a poignant and humorous look at the beloved character's journey as a widow and single mother. With Zellweger at the helm and a talented cast and crew behind the scenes, the fourth installment is set to be a worthy addition to the iconic film series.