In a surprising turn of events, a familiar face from BBC Wales has transitioned from the newsroom to the silver screen, captivating audiences with a cameo in the highly anticipated fourth installment of the Bridget Jones franchise, “Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy.”
Dan Heard, a seasoned broadcast journalist hailing from Cardiff, found himself thrust into the glitz and glamour of Hollywood as he joined the star-studded cast of the film, which includes A-listers such as Renée Zellweger, Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, and Leo Woodall. Fans of the series have eagerly awaited this sequel for nearly a decade since the release of the third film back in 2016.
Describing his foray into acting as “surreal,” Dan revealed that the opportunity arose through a recommendation from a university friend working for a casting agency. The production team was on the lookout for real journalists to add authenticity to the film, and Dan was among the fortunate few selected for the role.
“It was a unique experience to be on set alongside such acclaimed actors and actresses,” Dan shared. “I had to keep the details under wraps, even from my own mother, until the film’s release.”
On a sunny Sunday in June 2024, Dan found himself in the heart of London, undergoing the transformation process in the makeup chair before joining his fellow journalist co-stars at The Royal Court hotel to film his scene. The sequence, a montage featuring reporters covering a breaking story, offered Dan a taste of the acting world, a departure from his usual journalistic endeavors.
“It felt strangely familiar yet exhilarating to be part of the filming process,” Dan reflected. “Dressed in my Wales Today attire and reciting lines as if delivering a news report, it was a blend of reality and make-believe.”
Despite his modest two-minute appearance in the film, Dan’s performance has garnered attention from friends, family, and colleagues following the movie’s release. Having adhered to a strict non-disclosure agreement, Dan managed to keep his involvement in the project a well-guarded secret, much to the surprise of his loved ones.
“My mum is in for a shock when she sees me on the big screen,” Dan chuckled. “It was both nerve-wracking and exciting to finally share my role with those closest to me.”
Recently, Dan and his partner attended a special screening of the film at the iconic Odeon cinema in Leicester Square, a surreal experience for the journalist-turned-actor. While the main cast members were absent from the event, the ambiance of the historic venue added an extra layer of magic to the evening.
“Standing in the same cinema featured in ‘Gavin and Stacey’ was a moment of serendipity,” Dan mused. “To see my work unfold on screen in such a legendary setting was truly unforgettable.”
As the credits rolled on “Bridget
