Granny pants and situationships: Lessons Bridget Jones taught me in my 20s

Bridget Jones is a character that has become a beloved figure for many, especially among young women navigating the complexities of their 20s. Since the release of the original book, Bridget Jones's Diary, in 1996 and the subsequent film in 2001, Bridget has been a source of laughter and relatable experiences. Her journey through awkward dates, career challenges, and the quest for self-acceptance resonates with many, making her a timeless icon. Recently, Yasmin Rufo and Noor Nanji from BBC News spoke with several women in their 20s about the life lessons they learned from Bridget. Sophie Gwillym, 28, from Cardiff, Hannah Booth, 25, from Chester, and Sophie Tyler, 27, from Yorkshire, shared their thoughts on how Bridget's experiences mirror their own. Yasmin and Noor, both lifelong fans of the franchise, also chimed in with their reflections. Yasmin recalls discovering Bridget in the summer before high school when she snuck a copy of the book from her parents' bookshelf. She found it to be a guide to adult life, even if much of it went over her head at the time. Noor's introduction to Bridget came from her English teacher, who criticized the film's premise. However, after watching it with her sister, Noor fell in love with the character. Sophie T remembers watching the first film at a sleepover with her best friend, giggling at the adult themes that they didn't fully understand. The lessons Bridget teaches about love and relationships are particularly relevant for today's young women. Noor shared that her experiences in her 20s mirrored Bridget's obsession with the wrong kind of men. She learned that it is essential to seek out healthy relationships and that self-worth is crucial. Yasmin pointed out that Bridget's way of coping with heartbreak—sitting on the couch in pajamas, eating ice cream, and listening to sad music—still resonates today. While technology has changed, the feelings of heartbreak and obsession remain the same. Sophie G emphasized that Bridget's imperfections make her relatable, reminding us that we should embrace who we are rather than conform to societal expectations. Initially, Bridget believed that she needed a man to feel complete, but as her story progressed, she learned to appreciate the value of good friendships and self-love. Hannah noted that Bridget teaches us to recognize the importance of respectful partners and to avoid those who are unfaithful. She also highlights the need for vulnerability and setting boundaries in relationships. Sophie T reflected on the pressure to conform to societal standards of beauty and success, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance. Yasmin loves that Bridget's chaotic nature appeals to Gen Z, suggesting that if she were a young woman today, she would embrace modern trends and music. Noor added that it is okay to have off days and to not take life too seriously. However, some critics argue that Bridget's story may not be entirely relevant in today's world. Yasmin pointed out that Bridget's obsession with calorie counting and her struggles with body image may feel outdated. Noor agreed, noting that the lack of diversity and some sexist jokes in the earlier works do not align with today's values. Despite these criticisms, many still find Bridget's story relatable. Sophie G believes that if Bridget were created today, some aspects of her character might change, but that would detract from her charm. The importance of friendship is another significant theme in Bridget's story. Noor emphasized that having a close circle of friends is vital during challenging times, just as Bridget had her friends to support her. Sophie T shared that her friendships mirror Bridget's, as they often gather to share their experiences and support one another. Yasmin added that it is essential to have friends who will be honest and help you make good choices in life. Lastly, Bridget's experiences in the workplace offer valuable lessons as well. Sophie T mentioned that she often thinks of Bridget when meeting new people at work, recalling the iconic scene where Bridget awkwardly introduces her friends. Noor reminded everyone to proofread emails and to be cautious in professional settings. Sophie G encouraged taking risks and trying new things in one's career, while Hannah emphasized the importance of ambition and purpose in life. In conclusion, Bridget Jones remains a character that continues to inspire and teach valuable lessons to young women today. Her journey through love, friendship, and career challenges resonates with many, making her a timeless figure in popular culture.