Simone Ashley Was Recognized In Time's 100 Next List, And I'm So Here For This South Asian Representation

    "The way Simone delivers confidence onscreen — not only as a South Asian woman, but just as an actor — was so empowering to see in Bridgerton."

    If you're anything like me, you're absolutely obsessed with Bridgerton. And you already know that Simone Ashley was the best part of Season 2!

    She brought so much passion and humor to the role of Kate Sharma, and I can't wait to see what she does next.

    And I'm not the only one who thinks so. Time just announced their 100 Next — which recognizes rising stars from around the world — and Simone made the list!

    A closeup of Simone

    Talk show host Lilly Singh wrote some beautiful words for Time to commemorate Simone's achievements. "Is this where I get to talk about my obsession with Simone Ashley? Great, because I have nothing but love for her," Lilly wrote.

    "The way Simone delivers confidence on screen — not only as a South Asian woman, but just as an actor — was so empowering to see in Bridgerton."

    Simone in Bridgerton having tea

    "She has such an impressive range, I feel she’s one of those actors you can put in any scene, and she’ll make it her own and steal the show. That alone makes me extraordinarily excited for the rest of her career."

    "When we met at a Netflix shindig, we immediately connected and that budded into a friendship that is still growing. She’s already in the perfect position to make major moves, but if she were ever to ask me for advice, I would tell her to continue searching for projects that excite her and motivate her. Simone is exactly the person to push the boundaries and take representation to a whole new level. I will be cheering her on!" Lilly concluded.

    Woohoo! A talented woman of color being recognized for her work? We love to see it!