Bridgertons is shifting its strategy. The popular Netflix saga created by Shonda Rhimes is not following the book order as before. The third season centers on a central love story that brings together Colin Bridgerton, played by Luke Newton, and his close confidant Penelope Featherington, portrayed by Nicola Coughlan, in a narrative recast by the actress.
Consequently the fourth novel from the legendary Julia Quinn, Seducing Mr Bridgerton, is headed to television before the third book of the lineup, I Give You My Heart, featuring Benedict Bridgerton, the series family member brought to life by Luke Thompson. The first two seasons focused on the saga’s eldest siblings, Daphne Bridgerton, embodied by Phoebe Dynevor, and Anthony Bridgerton, played by Jonathan Bailey, with their respective arcs involving a charismatic duke and the flirtatious Kate Sharma, portrayed by Simone Ashley.
Penelope’s secret identity
The decision underscores the prominence of Penelope Featherington, the best friend of Eloise Bridgerton, acted by Claudia Jessie. The reveal of Penelope’s hidden persona raises the stakes and steers the friendship toward a potential romance with Colin Bridgerton. Yet Eloise often notes that Colin still regards her as a sister, a dynamic the show intends to evolve gradually.
As reported by Variation Jess Brownell, who stepped in after Chris Van Dusen stepped back at the start of production, the time has come for Colin and Penelope to be explored more fully. Brownell noted tense moments between the two in past seasons, especially during the last cycle when Colin began to sense Penelope’s feelings but did not fully acknowledge them. The plan is to shift the focus and allow a new, richer arc for both characters this season.
The fourth season will also introduce broader representation within London high society during the Regency era, including more black and Indian characters. One Bridgerton brother is expected to undergo a transformation in his personal portrayal, signaling ongoing changes in the ensemble.
Francesca will be recast with Ruby Slavens stepping in, as previously noted. The actor will no longer appear in the Bridgerton project following a role in another Netflix series, Lockwood & Co. and will be replaced by Hannah Dodd in the part.
The creative leadership behind the series is undergoing a transition as Chris Van Dusen passes the baton to Jess Brownell. Van Dusen remarked in an interview that Bridgerton holds a special place in his heart and that his decision to move on is rooted in a desire to recapture the magic in future projects. He spoke candidly about this shift during a chat with RadioTimes in March, reflecting on the studio’s evolving plans for the beloved period drama.