As the fifth and final season of You unfolds on Netflix, fans are introduced to a new character who seems to be a perfect fit for Joe Goldberg’s world of chaos and intrigue: Bronte, played by Madeline Brewer. Known for her roles in Orange Is the New Black and The Handmaid’s Tale, Brewer brings her distinctive style and depth to the role, adding another layer of complexity to You’s twisted universe. But who is Madeline Brewer beyond her on-screen personas?
Madeline Brewer’s Rise to Fame
Madeline Brewer’s career trajectory is nothing short of impressive. She first gained widespread recognition for her role as Tricia Miller in the hit Netflix series Orange Is the New Black. Brewer’s performance as the vulnerable yet strong-willed inmate established her as a talented actress. From there, Brewer’s career continued to soar with roles in other Netflix originals, such as Hemlock Grove and Black Mirror.
It was, of course, her role as Janine Lindo in The Handmaid’s Tale that truly cemented her career. Her portrayal of Janine, a complex character who endures hardship with resilience, earned Brewer an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in 2021.
Introducing Bronte in ‘You’
In the final season of You, Brewer steps into the shoes of Bronte, Mooney’s latest employee. Bronte is an intriguing new addition to Joe Goldberg’s already twisted world. Described by Brewer herself, Bronte “likes romance novels, fairy smut, and internet sleuthing,” which gives her a quirky and distinctive personality that fans are sure to love.
Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley) is immediately captivated by her charm. According to Badgley, Bronte fits the archetype of the “manic pixie dream girl,” with her tattered cardigan, short skirt, Doc Martens, and dramatic bob. But it’s not just her appearance that draws Joe in – it’s their shared love for books and writing. Brewer explains, “Bronte’s very intrigued by him. They’re both big book nerds, writers, and enchanted by New York City, and Mooney’s specifically. Bronte reminds Joe of himself, in a way.”
A Familiar Face in the Industry
Brewer’s transition from playing Janine in The Handmaid’s Tale to Bronte in You showcases her range as an actress. She brings a fresh energy to Bronte, who, while outwardly carefree and curious, is also layered with deeper emotional complexities. Brewer, a longtime fan of You, expressed her excitement about joining the series, saying, “I loved it. I watched every season as soon as they came out.”
Madeline Brewer’s Personal Life
Away from the screen, Brewer has also been open about her personal life, including her struggles with mental health. The 32-year-old actress has been candid about dealing with generalised anxiety.
“I’ve told myself, ‘I’ll give myself one more month of auditions, and if this doesn’t work out, I’m going to return to New Jersey and become a yoga teacher,'” Brewer shared in an interview. Her persistence paid off, and today, she’s a rising star in the entertainment industry.
In addition to her career, Brewer is engaged to cinematographer Jack Thompson-Roylance, with the couple planning their wedding.
Looking Ahead
With the final season of You currently streaming, viewers can expect to see more of Brewer’s nuanced portrayal of Bronte. As the series builds to its dramatic conclusion, Bronte’s interactions with Joe Goldberg play a pivotal role in the narrative.
Expect to see a lot more of Madeline Brewer.
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