• Renée Zellweger reflects on workplace romance themes in the upcoming "Bridget Jones" film.
• She expresses skepticism about how characters would fare under today's HR regulations.
• After a six-year hiatus, she shares personal growth experiences during her break from acting.
• The new film, "Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy," is set to be released in February 2025.

Renée Zellweger, the beloved star of the "Bridget Jones" series, recently shared her thoughts on the evolving perceptions of workplace romance and her personal journey since taking a hiatus from acting. In a conversation with co-star Hugh Grant, Zellweger remarked that the romantic dynamics portrayed in the original Bridget Jones’s Diary may not hold up under the scrutiny of modern-day human resources practices. Reflecting on these themes, she stated, “I’m sure HR would have some stern rules down at the publishing house these days” [The Guardian].

She pointed out that any advances from her character's boss, Daniel Cleaver—played by Grant—would likely result in serious discussions about workplace conduct and possibly mandates for re-education. As the fourth film in the series, Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, approaches its release on February 13, 2025, Zellweger acknowledged that societal expectations regarding women have shifted since the early 2000s, noting, “I don’t think that women my age are imposing that on their daughters” [USA Today].

In addition to her thoughts on gender roles and workplace dynamics, Zellweger opened up about her six-year break from acting, revealing that she felt "sick of the sound of [her] own voice." Acknowledging that she needed time away to explore her interests and prioritize her health, she shared, “I built a house, rescued a pair of older doggies, created a partnership that led to a production company" [USA Today]. Zellweger's return to the screen with the upcoming film marks a significant moment in her career, particularly following her last role in the acclaimed biopic about Judy Garland, which secured her another Oscar. Her reflections on past and present give fans insight into her evolving identity as both an actress and a woman navigating the complexities of contemporary society.

For more on Zellweger’s thoughts and her upcoming film, follow the conversation in more detail in the articles from The Guardian and USA Today.