Key Highlights
- Serena Williams was cast in a minor role on the hit show Bridgerton after dancing with executive producer Shonda Rhimes.
- The collaboration began as a fun Instagram video, where they lip-synced to “Never Knew Love Like This Before” by Stephanie Mills.
- Williams’ involvement is seen as a testament to her global influence and the respect she commands in entertainment circles.
- Bridgerton Season 4 premieres in January 2026, with Williams potentially joining the cast for the upcoming season.
The Dance That Led to Stardom: Serena Williams Joins Bridgerton
TV & Movies How Serena Williams Danced Her Way Into A Bridgerton Role It’s good to know the boss. by Stephanie Topacio Long Oct. 17, 2025 ANGELA WEISS/AFP/Getty Images
In one of the most viral moments from Super Bowl LIX, tennis legend Serena Williams showcased her dance skills with a crip-walk on Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.” Now, these moves have led to another high-profile opportunity. Williams will appear in an upcoming season of the hit Netflix series Bridgerton, according to executive producer Shonda Rhimes.
The Fun Behind the Scenes
Rhimes first reached out to Williams through a casual invitation on social media. The creator behind shows like Grey’s Anatomy and How to Get Away with Murder wanted to perform the “Stephanie Mills challenge,” which involves lip-syncing to the song “Never Knew Love Like This Before.” She asked Williams to join her for some backup dancing.
Williams enthusiastically accepted, giving a wholehearted effort in the background as Rhimes performed. “My girl @serenawilliams don’t play about @bridgertonnetflix!!” Rhimes wrote on Instagram, sharing how much fun she had with Williams during this impromptu collaboration.
Respect and Collaboration
This unexpected casting opportunity highlights the mutual respect between Williams and Rhimes. The tennis star has long been admired by the entertainment industry for her achievements and personality. Rhimes herself expressed admiration, stating that the Williams sisters are “amazing” in a recent interview with Bustle.
As part of this collaboration, Rhimes even hosted Williams at an event celebrating the 10th anniversary of Year of Yes, where they filmed their dance video together. This personal connection and enjoyment are evident from Rhimes’ social media posts: “I couldn’t have asked for a better night,” she wrote.
Looking Ahead
Bridgerton Season 4 is set to premiere in January 2026, potentially making it the earliest we can expect to see Williams join the series. Her appearance will add another layer of star power to the already popular show, which has become a cultural phenomenon since its release.
Williams’ involvement not only showcases her versatility but also reinforces her status as a global icon. It’s a clear sign that in today’s entertainment landscape, even the most renowned athletes can find their place in Hollywood.
About the Author:
Stephanie Topacio Long is a journalist for major news publications covering entertainment and celebrity news.
