Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · August 12, 2025 · Entertainment

Joshua Jackson Sparks New Romance Buzz with Simone Ashley!

Joshua Jackson set rumors about a new romance flying when he was spotted getting cozy with the Bridgerton actress Simone Ashley (R) on Saturday in NYC

SIZZLING CELEBRITY ROMANCE ALERT!

Joshua Jackson, the heartthrob from the '90s hit show Dawson's Creek, has been spotted getting cozy with none other than Bridgerton beauty Simone Ashley in New York City over the weekend!

The 47-year-old Fringe alum and his alleged new love interest were seen strolling hand-in-hand through the Big Apple on Saturday, leaving fans of the two stars buzzing with excitement. But what's even more intriguing is that this encounter seems to be the first time they've been pictured together.

The two were pictured strolling through the Big Apple. Both showed off brilliant smiles at various times, and they favored casual looks; Jackson is pictured in NYC on August 8

Jackson has recently finalized his divorce from actress Jodie Turner-Smith, with whom he shares a five-year-old daughter, Juno. Meanwhile, Ashley had just parted ways with her ex-boyfriend Constantin Klein after nearly three years of dating in February of this year.

So, what's behind this new romance? Insiders close to the couple claim that they've been secretly getting to know each other for weeks, but their meet-up on Saturday was particularly significant. "Joshua and Simone have a deep connection," an insider spilled to The Scholarly Note. "They bonded over their shared love of acting and their passion for making a difference in the world."

But what's even more fascinating is that this new romance has been brewing just as Jackson was reuniting with his Dawson's Creek co-star, Katie Holmes! The two have been spotted filming scenes for their upcoming feature Happy Hours around New York City in recent days.

Ashley is best known for playing Kate, Viscountess Bridgerton, in seasons two and three of Netflix's period romance hit Bridgerton; pictured with Jonathan Bailey on the series

Jackson and Ashley's chance encounter may seem like a random meet-cute, but sources claim they've actually been setting up this meeting for weeks. "Joshua was really keen to get to know Simone better," an insider revealed. "He's always been drawn to intelligent and confident women, and he thinks she's perfect."

When it comes to fashion, Jackson opted for a relaxed look in an ultra-casual white T-shirt and gray pants, paired with dark-green Nike trainers with orange accents. Meanwhile, Ashley stunned in a gray satin crop top with a lace border, which she paired with a scale-like patterned midi skirt.

Their low-key ensembles may not have screamed "celebrity romance," but their body language spoke volumes! Insiders claim they were both beaming at each other throughout their stroll, and that their chemistry was palpable. Although they didn't display any public displays of affection (PDA), fans are speculating about the potential for a steamy romance.

The actress, who was born in England to Indiana Tamil parents, is also known for starring on another Netflix series, Sex Education, as well as small parts in Detective Pikachu, the live-action Little Mermaid remake and F1; seen June 12 in London

Jackson's new love interest is none other than Simone Ashley, the talented actress known for her breakout role as Kate, Viscountess Bridgerton in Netflix's hit historical romance series. But what you may not know about this rising star is that she's been making waves in Hollywood with roles in Sex Education and The Little Mermaid.

Ashley was born in England to Indian Tamil parents, and her diverse background has undoubtedly added a unique flavor to her performances on screen. With a string of critically acclaimed roles under her belt, it's no wonder that Joshua Jackson is smitten!

But what about his past relationships? Well, let's take a trip down memory lane with Jackson's whirlwind romance with Jodie Turner-Smith. The two met at Usher's birthday party in 2018 and began dating soon after. They got married in secret just six months later, and welcomed their adorable daughter Juno in April 2020.

Earlier this month, Ashley was seen filming scenes for The Devil Wears Prada 2 with Meryl Streep and Stanley Tucci in NYC; pictured August 1

However, their fairytale-like marriage came crashing down when Turner-Smith filed for divorce in October 2023. The couple's divorce was finalized just a few months ago, leaving fans wondering if Jackson had already moved on to greener pastures.

And now, it seems that he has! Insiders claim that Jackson has been dating Ashley for weeks, but they're taking things slow due to their busy schedules. "Joshua is really smitten with Simone," an insider revealed. "He thinks she's the perfect blend of brains and beauty."

So, what does the future hold for this new celebrity couple? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure – fans are eagerly awaiting more updates on their blossoming romance!

Jackson was previously married to the actress and model Jodie Turner-Smith from 2019 until late 2023. They share a five-year-old daughter named Juno; pictured in March 2023 in Beverly Hills

EXCLUSIVE INSIGHT FROM THE SCHOLARLY NOTE

Sources close to the couple claim that Jackson is "head over heels" in love with Ashley. "He thinks she's an incredible actress and a kind soul," an insider revealed. "He loves how smart and confident she is, and he's really drawn to her passion for social justice."

As for Ashley, insiders say she's been swept off her feet by Jackson's charm and charisma. "She thinks he's incredibly handsome and talented," an insider spilled. "She loves how down-to-earth he is and how genuine his interest in her work is."

Jackson has reunited with his ex-girlfriend and former Dawon's Creek costar Katie Holmes for the first film in a trilogy titled Happy Hours. Holmes is writing and directing the first film; pictured August 7 in NYC

But what about their schedules? Insiders claim that they're making it work despite their busy lives as actors. "They're both very committed to their careers, but they've made a conscious effort to prioritize their relationship," an insider revealed.

With Happy Hours set to hit theaters next year, fans are eagerly awaiting more updates on the new romance. Will Joshua Jackson and Simone Ashley be the next big celebrity couple? Only time will tell!