Martins Imhangbe: On Bridgerton, the big screen and his London local
The rising star, who played opposite Regé-Jean Page in Netflix’s smash hit Bridgerton, opens up about life in the capital and among the Regency bon ton
It’s safe to say Bridgerton has been a record-breaking TV series. When it debuted on Christmas Day 2020, the Regency-era romance became Netflix’s most-watched show in history, racking up 625.49 million hourly views. Based on Julia Quinn’s novels, Shonda Rhimes created a racy series that delves into the love lives of the Bridgerton siblings and the era’s high society families, otherwise known as ‘the ton’.
When the second season came along in March 2022, it smashed records again, garnering two million more views than the original. In the words of Lady Whistledown — Bridgerton’s omniscient, scandalous narrator — the series is incomparable.
It’s been a whirlwind for all the actors involved. Phoebe Dynevor, who stars as Daphne Bridgerton, has become one of the most in-demand actresses in Britain. Regé-Jean Page, the Duke of Hastings, has been pegged as the next Bond. For Martins Imhangbe — the actor who plays strapping young boxer Will Mondrich in season one and establishes himself as a reputable business owner come season two — it’s been quite the journey, and one that he can’t wait to continue.
When he’s not practicing his uppercuts in the ring or serving neat bourbon in Will Mondrich’s bar, Imhangbe spends his downtime in the capital. Born in Nigeria, he spent his early childhood in Greece before his family moved to south east London. It’s in the capital that Imhangbe first made a name for himself as an actor, studying at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and going on to star in the capital’s theatre productions.
We caught up with Imhangbe to talk upcoming roles, London haunts and to try and tease out a Bridgerton season three spoiler or two…
Unfortunately I can’t reveal much as that would ruin the fun! But I am very excited about what’s in store for Will and his family this season.
They both offer very unique experiences for an actor. I love the process. Being able to spend time with a character and really getting to grow with them is one of the things I really enjoy and appreciate about being a regular on a TV series. With stage, I really enjoy the live and direct contact you get with the audience, that collective energy in one space is euphoric and so much fun. Having the opportunity to be able to do both is a blessing.
My colleagues. It’s a very fun ensemble; all the creatives work extremely hard and at the same time there is still a sense of joy and pride, which is inspiring to be amongst.
I attended youth art centres like Second Wave in Deptford and [had] a space where I [could] create collaboratively with other people. I also had very supportive drama teachers who were able to offer me guidance. This inspired me to pursue a career in acting and fuelled my self-belief and determination.
It changes all the time. Right now, I would love to do an action-packed film [with] lots of stunts and cool experiences. Or a story which shines light on humanity in a positive and impactful way.
Hopefully in Nigeria with my family.
Organising a Christmas dinner or getting together with my friends and family. Also helping out [in] the community, either by volunteering or giving back.
Although it’s technically a pub, Skehans in Nunhead does some of the best Thai food in London. It’s got a pool table and a nice outdoor space, perfect for a Sunday with friends watching the footy and having some Pad Thai.
One of my favourite bars is the Social in Peckham, it’s the perfect spot for meeting up with friends. It is so close to the station and just [has] a really good vibe, especially in the summer.
I really love having fresh flowers in the house or sending people flowers as thank yous. It’s a really lovely gesture and my favourite place is Sage Flowers. They make the most amazing arrangements and are very local.
I’m also quite into cycling, so I like to visit Condor Cycles. They have a really great team and always help you find what you’re looking for.
Over the years, my local high street has become a hugely integral part of mine and my family’s life and growth within our community. For me, the value of shopping local means I’m investing in the future of these incredible independent shops, and it gives me the opportunity to support them (as they have supported me).
There are so many personal milestones I’ve celebrated with my local shops and small businesses over the years; they really are the DNA of our local communities. I’m thrilled to be a part of the American Express Shop Small campaign again, which is celebrating 10 years this December.
Find more recommendations from Bridgerton’s Martins Imhangbe and other insider tips for the festive season in ‘The Little Blue Book of Sharing’ at americanexpress.com
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