After captivating audiences with her breakout role in Bridgerton, Nicola Coughlan, 37, has seemingly found her own real-life love story. The actress, who brought the character of Penelope Featherington to life in the hit Netflix series, has been linked to actor Jake Dunn, 24, in recent months, and their relationship seems to be heating up.
The couple was first spotted together in August 2024, but it wasn’t until October that they made their romance public when they were seen enjoying a cozy date night in London. The two were photographed strolling through the city, wrapped up in a warm embrace, sparking widespread speculation about the nature of their relationship.
Who is Jake Dunn?
Dunn, like Coughlan, is an actor, best known for his role in Disney+’s Renegade Nell, a historical drama set in 18th-century England. Playing the character of Thomas, one of the series’ villains, Dunn earned praise for his compelling performance, even though his character was known for being, well, “unlikable.”
Before making his mark on television, Dunn honed his craft at the prestigious Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, where he graduated in 2022. His stage credits include playing Betsy’s husband in Anna Karenina and Cassius in Julius Caesar. Dunn’s recent work includes appearances in several notable productions, and he will soon star alongside Ben Kingsley and Sex Education‘s Connor Swindells in William Tell.
How Did Coughlan and Dunn Meet?
While the exact details of their first meeting remain private, it’s clear that their connection developed over the course of several months. The couple was first seen together at the All Points East Festival in London in August 2024, where they were photographed enjoying the music and cozying up to one another. Coughlan, dressed in a white mini dress and studded ankle boots, and Dunn, in a casual open shirt and linen pants, looked very much like a couple as they shared a moment of laughter and affection during Mitski’s performance.
Coughlan and Dunn Make Their Romance Public
In October 2024, Nicola and Jake were photographed on a date night in London, further fueling speculation about their relationship. The couple was seen strolling hand-in-hand down the street, sharing intimate moments after leaving an Irish bar. In one particularly sweet photo, Dunn had his arm around Coughlan’s waist as they engaged in conversation, both looking relaxed and happy in each other’s company.
The couple’s low-key yet affectionate outing marks the first time they’ve been publicly photographed together as a couple. Coughlan wore a mustard cardigan over a black dress, while Dunn kept it casual in a baseball tee and green cargo pants. Their relaxed and natural demeanor made it clear that they are comfortable with one another—and their growing bond is undeniable.
Coughlan Shuts Down Previous Dating Rumors
Earlier in 2024, rumors circulated that Coughlan was romantically involved with her Bridgerton co-star, Luke Newton, after they were photographed holding hands at the season 3 launch event. However, Coughlan swiftly shut down the speculation, telling TIME in October 2024 that the two are just close friends.
“A lot of people really want me to marry Luke,” Coughlan said with a laugh. “We have this gorgeous friendship. We have such a love for one another and this experience that I’ll never have with someone else again. Isn’t it gorgeous that a man and woman can have that sort of relationship with one another?”
Despite the rumors, Coughlan’s strong bond with Newton seems to be entirely platonic. And now, her relationship with Jake Dunn has been publicly confirmed, showing that her romantic life is blossoming in a new direction.
A Look at Nicola Coughlan’s Dating Philosophy
Though Coughlan has largely kept her dating life private, she has occasionally opened up about her thoughts on relationships and the challenges of navigating modern dating. In an interview with Marie Claire Australia in September 2023, Coughlan spoke about the complexities of finding love in the age of dating apps.
“[It’s] good because we have a choice now, but then there’s that thing of the paradox of choice,” she explained. “We have too much choice, it’s not good. So, there’s probably good and bad things for both.”
Coughlan also revealed that she has one red flag when it comes to dating. “When guys want to do a joker impression… Just don’t. It’s an immediate ick and it’s never good. I know that’s very specific, but it’s just not for me,” she said, offering a candid and humorous insight into her personal preferences.
What’s Next for Nicola Coughlan and Jake Dunn?
As Coughlan and Dunn continue to navigate their relationship, fans are eagerly watching to see where their connection goes. Whether they choose to keep their romance private or share more moments with the public, it’s clear that the couple has a strong connection.
With her career on the rise and Dunn making his own mark in the entertainment world, both stars seem poised for exciting futures—both individually and as a couple.
For now, it looks like love is blooming for Nicola Coughlan, and her fans couldn’t be happier for her.
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