Netflix’s Bridgerton season 3 captivated audiences once again, drawing in new fans to the Regency-era romance series. Each season, based on Julia Quinn’s novels, follows a different couple navigating the challenges of finding love in a high-society setting. The latest season, released in 2024, delved into the story of Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton, shedding light on Lady Whistledown’s role in their complex relationship.
If you’ve already binge-watched the latest season and are eager to know what’s in store for Bridgerton season 4, we’ve got you covered. From the release date to the new lead couple and returning cast members, here’s everything you need to anticipate the upcoming season.
Don’t forget to explore other exciting shows and movies on Netflix this month and discover the five most outrageous aspects of Bridgerton.
Warning: Spoilers for Bridgerton season 3 below
When Will Bridgerton Season 4 Be Released?
Bridgerton season 4 will consist of eight episodes, split into two parts:
- Part 1 premieres on Thursday, January 29, 2026
- Part 2 will be released on Thursday, February 26, 2026
Mark your calendars as the show is exclusively available on Netflix. You can subscribe to Netflix starting from $6.99/£4.99 per month on their website. Here’s the official date announcement:
Who Is the Next Bridgerton Lead Couple?
Netflix has confirmed that season 4 will be based on Julia Quinn’s third Bridgerton book, An Offer from a Gentleman. This season will focus on Benedict Bridgerton, portrayed by Luke Thompson, who had a significant subplot in the previous season.
Benedict’s exploration of his free-spirited nature and his first experience with a man in season 3 sets the stage for his character development in the upcoming season. In the book, Benedict’s love interest is Sophie, a character we have yet to meet on screen. Their story unfolds at a masquerade ball, drawing inspiration from the classic Cinderella tale.
Showrunner Jess Brownell hinted at the upcoming season, saying, “Season 4 will explore the juxtaposition between traditional romance and the harsh realities of society.” Actor Luke Thompson and Yerin Ha, who plays Sophie, shared insights into their characters’ journeys, promising a nuanced and compelling storyline ahead.
What Else Could Happen in Bridgerton Season 4?
Besides Benedict’s story, Bridgerton season 4 will also delve into other intriguing subplots that may lead into the next season. Francesca Bridgerton, the sixth sibling, played a pivotal role in the previous season, with her character evolving significantly.
Francesca’s pursuit of a quiet life and her unexpected marriage to Lord John Stirling hinted at a serene future. However, the introduction of Michaela Stirling, John’s cousin, promises to shake up Francesca’s world. The gender-swapped character from the book When He Was Wicked introduces new dynamics and challenges for Francesca to navigate.
With a focus on LGBTQI+ representation and the exploration of complex relationships, Bridgerton season 4 is poised to captivate audiences with its blend of romance and reality. Stay tuned for more updates on the upcoming season!
Switching up the typical London setting for a majestic castle in Scotland would provide a refreshing change of scenery and add an intriguing subplot to complement Benedict’s storyline.
Francesca was accompanied by Eloise in their journey to Scotland, where Eloise has emerged as a significant supporting character in the series, particularly for Penelope and Colin.
Escaping her comfort zone, Eloise ventured to Scotland with Francesca and John, seeking new experiences and a break from her usual routine. Brownell revealed to The Wrap that Eloise, known for her feminist beliefs, is currently uninterested in romance, preferring to focus on other aspects of her life.
According to Jess Brownell:
It’s possible that she will eventually open herself up to love, but there are still some personal growth opportunities we want to explore with her before she reaches that point.
Therefore, while Eloise may offer support to Benedict, her own romantic endeavors are likely to be placed on hold for the time being.
Based on the novels by Julia Quinn, the series comprises eight books, with Netflix having only adapted three so far (along with a prequel focusing on Queen Charlotte). This leaves plenty of material for future adaptations and numerous adventures for the members of the Bridgerton family.
What unfolded at the conclusion of Bridgerton season 3?
The pivotal moment in the latest season of Bridgerton was when Penelope revealed her identity as Lady Whistledown not just to the Queen but to all of society.
Her true identity began to unravel when Cressida falsely claimed to be the infamous gossip columnist in hopes of gaining a reward and escaping an unwanted marriage. Penelope tried to refute the claims but was caught en route to the printer shop by her fiancé, Colin.
Feeling betrayed by her deception, Colin reluctantly agreed to marry Penelope to salvage his reputation, but their initial days as a married couple were fraught with tension.
As Cressida delved deeper, she uncovered Lady Whistledown’s true identity, leading to Penelope being blackmailed and scrambling to navigate the ensuing chaos. Colin’s attempts to intervene only exacerbated the situation.
Ultimately, Penelope chose to come clean about her alter ego and the reasons behind assuming the persona of Lady Whistledown. Her decision was met with pride and support from her husband, family, and friends, allowing her to continue writing under her true name rather than a pseudonym.
In a flash-forward, it was revealed that Penelope and Colin had a son, who inherited the title of Lord Featherington to carry on the family legacy. Meanwhile, Kate and Anthony embarked on a journey to India to visit Edwina, expecting their first child before departure. Additionally, Violet explored a potential romance with Lady Danbury’s brother, Lord Marcus Anderson.
Which cast members are set to return for Bridgerton season 4?
The following actors and actresses will reprise their roles in the upcoming season:
- Luke Thompson as Benedict Bridgerton
- Jonathan Bailey as Anthony Bridgerton
- Simone Ashley as Kate Sharma
- Luke Newton as Colin Bridgerton
- Nicola Coughlan as Penelope Bridgerton
- Victor Alli as John Stirling
- Adjoa Andoh as Lady Danbury
- Lorraine Ashbourne as Mrs. Varley
- Masali Baduza as Michaela Stirling
- Hannah Dodd as Francesca Stirling
- Daniel Francis as Lord Marcus Anderson
- Ruth Gemmell as Violet Bridgerton
- Florence Hunt as Hyacinth Bridgerton
- Will Tilston as Gregory Bridgerton
- Martins Imhangbe as Will Mondrich
- Claudia Jessie as Eloise Bridgerton
- Emma Naomi as Alice Mondrich
- Golda Rosheuvel as Queen Charlotte
- Hugh Sachs as Brimsley
- Polly Walker as Portia Featherington
Julie Andrews will also return as the voice of Lady Whistledown.
Regé-Jean Page and Phoebe Dynevor’s absence in season 3 as the Duke and Duchess of Hastings makes their return for season 4 unlikely.
Check out the initial set photos below:
Who will portray the new characters in Bridgerton season 4?
The upcoming season of Bridgerton will introduce several new characters, with one of the notable additions being Sophie, Benedict Bridgerton’s love interest. According to Variety, the role of the iconic Lady in Silver will be portrayed by Yerin Ha, known for her role in the Halo series on Paramount+.
The character’s name has been changed from Sophie Beckett to Sophie Baek, incorporating a Korean surname as a nod to Ha’s heritage (via Netflix). Ha expressed, “A name is the first piece of identity you share with the world, and that’s why a name change can be so impactful.”
The series creators describe Sophie as “brave, resourceful, and wary of trusting others” (via Collider).
Netflix has officially confirmed Ha’s casting, welcoming her to the Bridgerton family with a special video:
Other confirmed additions to the cast include:
- Katie Leung as Lady Araminta Gun, a twice-married and twice-widowed mother of two daughters navigating the marriage market. Described by Netflix as fabulous, discerning, blunt, and determined to maintain her social status
- Michelle Mao as Rosamund Li, Araminta’s elder daughter.
The character Posy Li in Bridgerton is described as a beautiful, vain, and eager to please her ambitious mother. She is determined to seduce Benedict, adding an intriguing dynamic to the series. Isabella Wei plays the role of Posy Li, who is portrayed as chatty and more friendly than her sister Rosamund.
Netflix has exciting news for Bridgerton fans as the series has been renewed for seasons 5 and 6 simultaneously. While it’s unclear which novels will be adapted next and when the new seasons will premiere, viewers can look forward to more drama and romance in the future episodes.
Stay tuned for updates on the upcoming seasons of Bridgerton and immerse yourself in the captivating world of high society and scandal.
