LONDON, Jan 29 (Reuters) - Renee Zellweger shared that playing Bridget Jones feels like reconnecting with an "old friend" as she and the cast of "Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy" gathered for the film's world premiere in London on Wednesday.

Arriving over two decades after "Bridget Jones's Diary" first captivated audiences, this fourth installment in the beloved series shows Bridget navigating life as a single mother of two, following the passing of her husband, Mark Darcy.

In this latest chapter, Bridget’s former flame and close companion, Daniel Cleaver, portrayed by Hugh Grant, also returns, bringing his own charm to the romantic comedy.

As Bridget grapples with balancing her career, motherhood, friendships, and her return to the dating world, Zellweger believes it’s her character’s raw honesty that continues to strike a chord with audiences.

"I think people see themselves in her struggles and vulnerability," Zellweger remarked on the red carpet.

She credited writer Helen Fielding for crafting a character with universal appeal, celebrating "moments that resonate across generations and experiences."

Bridget Jones cemented herself as a cultural touchstone with Fielding's 1996 London-set bestseller "Bridget Jones's Diary".

The book's diary entries, chronicling Bridget’s weight fluctuations, indulgences in wine and cigarettes, and romantic escapades, resonated deeply with readers. The novel spawned three follow-up books and a trilogy of films, including "Bridget Jones's Diary" (2001), "Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason" (2004), and "Bridget Jones's Baby" (2016).

In this latest adaptation, a now-51-year-old Bridget dives back into the dating scene and crosses paths with 29-year-old Roxster, portrayed by rising star Leo Woodall.

"There was definitely pressure stepping into this role," Woodall admitted. "But once I met Renee, everything changed—she’s radiant, kind, and incredibly generous as an actor. From there, I knew it would be a smooth experience."

Chiwetel Ejiofor also appears as a significant figure in Bridget's journey, taking on the role of one of her kids' teachers. Known for acclaimed performances in films such as "12 Years a Slave" and "Children of Men", Ejiofor said joining the franchise was an easy decision.

"Renee has done a remarkable job breathing life into this character. It’s rare to see something endure for 25 or 30 years," Ejiofor commented.

Director Michael Morris did not close the door on future stories for Bridget but emphasized that the decision ultimately lies with Fielding.

"Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy,” distributed by Universal Pictures, will launch in theaters worldwide beginning Feb. 12.