Movies

Simone Ashley Opens Up About Lack of Representation in Rom-Coms Before Starring in Picture This

BBG News

In an open discussion, Simone Ashley shared her feelings about a lack of representation similar to hers on the screen prior to her leading part in Picture This.

In the forthcoming romantic comedy, the actress from Bridgerton plays Pia, a photographer facing challenges in both love and career, as her ex unexpectedly re-enters her life.

During a conversation with Josh Smith on the Reign with Josh Smith podcast on Tuesday, Simone expressed her delight over the movie’s portrayal, acknowledging that such representation wasn’t present in her childhood experiences.

Simone shared, “When I was young, I aspired to be like Cameron Diaz. I admired her roles greatly, but the characters who looked like me were often just the supporting actresses or those who didn’t succeed. However, this wasn’t a reflection of my actual life as I’ve achieved victories in numerous ways.

She remarked: ‘I’d put it this way, the younger version of myself might have exclaimed something like, “wow, look at us making a romantic comedy, with an Indian woman as the main character!”‘

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I’ve often found myself yearning for characters on-screen who mirrored my experiences and identity. Now, with the introduction of Picture This, I can’t help but feel a glimmer of hope. In essence, this film is a beacon, one that I fervently wish will find its way into the hands of every brown woman, enabling them to triumph in their own unique ways!

She expressed her hope that she could inspire other women and young girls who resemble her to think, ‘It’s achievable’,” she stated.

Additionally, I spent my childhood years enjoying a variety of romantic comedies from the ’90s, including movies starring Julia Roberts, Anne Hathaway, and Cameron Diaz such as My Best Friend’s Wedding, among others.

In a heartfelt confession reminiscent of the beloved heroines from ’90s romantic comedies, I find myself mirroring their struggles. Just like Bridget Jones, my life has been a whirlwind of turmoil and unpredictability in so many ways.

I chose to be part of this film (Picture This) primarily to depict a person’s human aspect, while also celebrating their cultural heritage.

‘I think things would have just felt a bit more normal and accessible [for younger me].’

In this scenario, Picture This depicts struggling photographer Pia being given a prophecy: True love and professional achievement are destined for her within the subsequent five dates she arranges.

As her sister’s upcoming wedding approaches and relatives trying to arrange marriages, she encounters her former partner again, causing turmoil in both her romantic and work affairs.

In other parts of the conversation, Simone shared her experiences feeling out of place and undervalued when surrounded by groups of males.

She said: ‘I think a lot of the time [I have felt othered] when I’ve been in a room of men. 

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I embrace the versatility of femininity. When I choose to don my high heels, elongate my silhouette, and pamper myself with a polished manicure and meticulously applied makeup, it’s not about proving anything to anyone. However, in certain settings, particularly when surrounded by men, some may misconstrue this as a sign of inexperience or lack of intellectual prowess. In reality, my choices reflect self-expression and personal style, not limitations or capabilities.

In a gathering of males, I often find myself needing to speak more assertively and clarify my thoughts further, as well as suppressing the inclination to demonstrate my abilities – a behavior I strive to avoid, since I dislike having to prove myself, as it contradicts my personal convictions.

‘I find myself in situations where I think, “Perhaps I’m not up to the task,” when I enter a room filled with men. But each time, it’s a chance for me to prove myself and demonstrate confidence. This is my learning process, a journey that requires me to walk into such rooms and lead, despite the moments of self-doubt. Sometimes I succeed, and sometimes I question my abilities.’

In the upcoming phase of her life where she is focusing on a music career, Simone has been cast in a romantic comedy. Moreover, she recently announced that she is entering a period of being single.

Last month, it was disclosed that she parted ways with her boyfriend, Tino Klein, who is the head of an Austrian company specializing in organizing ice races, after being together for three years.

It seems like the actress is expressing her difficulties through songs on her upcoming first pop album.

The actress born in Surrey expressed: “At times, I believe a song serves as storytelling, and tunes penned from emotional turmoil can unexpectedly transform into an emotionally charged dance hit.

She mentioned: ‘One of my compositions carries the imprint of heartache. There is a piece I’ve created, originating from a space of heartbreak.’

Over the weekend, the skies were particularly gray as I worked on my composition. However, when we ventured to the recording studio, the sunlight emerged, and with some time and perspective, that once gloomy tune transformed into something incredibly uplifting.

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2025-03-12 19:48

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