Renée Zellweger’s BAFTA Glow & Hugh Grant’s Playful Nod: A Bridget Jones Moment for the Ages

Awards season always brings its share of emotional reunions. Still, few moments have stayed as delightfully timeless as the brief on-stage crossover between Bridget Jones icons Renée Zellweger and Hugh Grant at the 2020 BAFTAs.

Even years later, the encounter remains one of those small but sparkling pop-culture snapshots—a reminder of why audiences still adore the duo’s easy chemistry.

After Zellweger earned her Best Actress win for her acclaimed turn as Judy Garland in Judy, the two stars shared a warm embrace backstage that instantly set social media buzzing. And Grant—ever the charming provocateur—kept the nostalgia going when he stepped onstage to present Best Film, slipping in a playful nod to one of Bridget Jones’s Diary’s most quotable scenes. It was the kind of winking callback fans love: affectionate, self-aware, and perfectly timed.

The reunion may have lasted only moments, but its impact has endured, resurfacing in highlight reels, fan conversations, and fashion retrospectives—especially as Zellweger’s red-carpet looks from that season remain among her best.

“First of all, well done, Jones,” he said, congratulating Renée for her win. “That was a very, very silly little dress, I thought,” referencing a scene in the 2001 movie, where Hugh’s character Daniel Cleaver seduces Bridget.

While attempting to undress her in the famous movie scene, Daniel says, “Now these are very silly little boots, Jones. And this is a very silly little dress. And, um, these are, f*** me, absolutely enormous panties.”

Renée Zellweger and Hugh Grant share a quietly charming moment in the kitchen during a scene from Bridget Jones’s Diary, highlighting the film’s signature blend of humor and heart

Fans immediately took to Twitter to express their delight.

Fans express their delight at the mini-reunion on Twitter

A Modern Classic: Renée Zellweger Glows in a Blush Prada Column Dress

Renée looked pretty in pink on the red carpet. Opting for her signature silhouette, the 50-year-old actress wore an off-the-shoulder Prada column dress. It featured a sweetheart neckline, a floor-grazing hem, and a nipped-in waist that highlighted her figure.

Renée Zellweger stuns in a custom pale-pink satin Prada off-the-shoulder column gown—styled with David Webb art-deco bangles, dyed-to-match Jimmy Choo pumps, and a softly swept updo—at the 73rd EE British Academy Film Awards on February 2, 2020 (Credit: Mario Mitsis / Adriana M. Barraza / Z.Tomaszewski / WENN)

Hairstylist Richard Marin styled her tresses in a chic updo, while makeup artist Dama Michelle Hamel gave her a soft, dewy look with QMS Medicosmetics and Pat McGrath makeup.

Stylist Petra Flannery rounded out Renee’s look with gold David Webb art-deco bangles and rings and Jimmy Choo heels.

Radiant in soft lighting, Renée Zellweger showcases the gown’s sculptural off-the-shoulder detailing, paired with glowy makeup and a romantic sweeping updo, highlighting the minimalist elegance of her custom Prada look

A Tailored Triumph: Renée Zellweger’s Sleek Tom Ford Oscars Luncheon Look

The previous week, Renée attended the 92nd Academy Awards Nominees Luncheon in Los Angeles. For the occasion, she kept it chic and sophisticated in a black-and-white Tom Ford suit.

It included a black velvet jacket draped over her shoulders and a white pleated tuxedo shirt tucked into her trousers.

Renée Zellweger brings effortless, modern polish to the Oscars 2020 Nominees Luncheon in a tailored Tom Ford suit layered over a crisp pleated blouse, finishing the look with black satin Tom Ford pumps featuring crisscross ankle straps and crystal-embellished pointed toes on January 27, 2020

She looked effortlessly beautiful with barely-there makeup, done by makeup artist Kindra Mann. Richard Marin styled her hair in a messy high ponytail.

Renée Zellweger radiates effortless elegance with a soft updo and natural makeup at the Oscars Nominees Luncheon

To complete the business-chic look, Petra Flannery styled her outfit with a massive David Webb ring and a pair of black satin pumps by Tom Ford.

These pumps feature crisscross ankle straps, crystal-embellished pointed toes, and a crystal accent on the 4-inch heels.

Renée Zellweger steps out in black satin Tom Ford pumps adorned with crystal-embellished pointed toes and delicate crisscross ankle straps

Renée Zellweger’s Style Legacy: More Red-Carpet Moments to Explore

Renée’s BAFTA appearances offer just a glimpse of the polished, quietly glamorous style she has refined over the years. Whether she’s embracing sculptural minimalism, stepping out in pastel couture, or elevating tailored classics with jewel-bright heels, her red-carpet choices consistently balance sophistication with ease.

For readers who want to explore her fashion journey more fully—including her most iconic pumps, award-winning gowns, and unforgettable press-tour looks—Your Next Shoes has curated a deeper collection of her standout style moments below.