Warning: Spoilers ahead
Netflix’s hit series Bridgerton has been given the green light for seasons 3 and 4, with production expected to begin next year. Whilst Regé-Jean Page will not be returning, the Bridgerton family will be returning in full flair and grandeur. So grab your dress, tailor your suit, and join us in the Ton for a year of extravagance and romance.
Netflix partnered with Shondaland in October 2018 to produce what has become an extravagant world of intrigue, romance – and a global sensation. Interwoven with lust and jealousy, this adaptation of Julia Quinn’s novels has become the epitome of modern television, leaving viewers yearning for more.
“Quinn introduces readers to the aristocratic Bridgerton family, offering tales of love, marriage, and heartache”
Bridgerton is a television adaptation of Julia Quinn’s best-selling series of the same name. Set in Regency London in 1813, Quinn introduces readers to the aristocratic Bridgerton family, offering tales of love, marriage, and heartache. In 8 novels, Quinn takes us on a journey from the eldest Bridgerton child, Anthony, to the youngest, Hyacinth.
The Duke bids us farewell
Bridgerton producers made the formal announcement that Regé-Jean Page, who plays the Duke of Hastings, would not be returning to the show, leaving fans shocked and disheartened.
“It’s a one-season arc,” Page said: “It’s going to have a beginning, middle, [and an] end.
“I get to come in, I get to contribute my bit, and then the Bridgerton family rolls on.”
But it isn’t all bad news. Just one week later, Bridgerton producers announced there would be a third and fourth season… take me to the Ton!
Dearest readers, this author brings a most exciting announcement… pic.twitter.com/sV0QiYcn8z
— Bridgerton (@bridgerton) April 13, 2021
Bridgerton first blessed our screens on 25 December 2020, reaching 63 million households within 28 days of its debut. Based on Julia Quinn’s bestselling book series, viewers can expect to see a total of 8 seasons, each delving into the lives of yet another Bridgerton sibling – whether adaptations of all 8 novels will come to pass is another question.
An Offer from a Gentleman
What can we expect from the third series?
Quinn’s third novel explores the romantic endeavours of Benedict, the second eldest brother of the Bridgerton family.
Benedict falls for two women in this book: a “radiant vision in silver” at a family ball and an “oddly familiar beauty dressed in housemaid’s garb.” Unknown to Benedict, both women are in fact the same: Sophie, the daughter of an earl, is forced to live as a servant in her stepmother’s house, sneaking away to attend his family’s ball – now, doesn’t that sound familiar?
Make no mistake; Julia Quinn based this novel on one of the most charming fairytales out there… Cinderella.
The majority of Bridgerton‘s cast will return for its third season, with the character of Sophie yet to be cast by producers.
One thing Bridgerton fans are waiting in eager anticipation for, however, is the return of Genevieve Delacroix; the seamstress featured in season 1. Julia Quinn pays no attention to this seemingly insignificant character in her novel, however, leaving fans wondering whether this is the plot twist we have all been waiting for.
Our return to the Ton
Executive producer Shonda Rhimes said: “From the first time I read Julia Quinn’s delicious Bridgerton series, I knew these were stories that would captivate a viewing audience.
“Betsy and I are thrilled to have the opportunity to continue bringing the world of Bridgerton to a worldwide audience.”
Vice President of Global TV at Netflix, Bela Bajaria, added: “Bridgerton swept us off our feet. The creative team, led by Shonda, knew the material and delivered a beautiful, emotional, romantic drama for our members.
“They have some exciting plans for the future, and we think audiences will continue to swoon for this show.”
“With hidden romances, lavish balls, and family feuds, this is set to be a series to remember”
Netflix is currently filming its second season which will explore Lord Anthony’s romantic endeavours, taking a step away from the much-loved Duke who blessed our screens for eight episodes in season 1.
Whilst Bridgerton‘s upcoming seasons will certainly strike a different tone to that of its first season, it is expected to be just as extravagant. With hidden romances, lavish balls, and family feuds, this is set to be a series to remember.
Madeleine Raine
Featured image courtesy of redcharlie on Unsplash. Image license is available here. This image has in no way been altered.