Renée Zellweger has played one of her generation’s most iconic British characters, Bridget Jones, in four movies. But fans who grew up watching the Cold Mountain star in the rom-com films seemed surprised to find out that the actress is not,

The “Bridget Jones” franchise is long beloved by fans, due in extremely large part to Renée Zellweger’s portrayal of the title character. So, yes, the actress was a resource director Michael Morris turned to a lot while making the fourth film — and there was one particular insight from the Oscar winner that he says unlocked the whole thing.

Actor Renée Zellweger opens up about what she likes about playing the relatable title character Bridget Jones in the beloved franchise — a role she stepped into when the first movie was released in 2001.

Don Arnold/WireImage Renée Zellweger got candid about how she related to Bridget Jones' new chapter in Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy. "She felt familiar in so many ways. I think I've recognized her because I understand what she's been through,

There came a moment when Renée Zellweger (55) had to pause for her own mental health. From 2010 to 2016, she distanced herself from the deceptive Hollywood lights to focus on herself and return as an improved version of herself.