Eight books full of drama, romance, and scandals, centered around a large family in the British Regency period: the perfect formula for a new series. That’s what Netflix and Shondaland (the production house behind Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal) must have thought. At the end of 2020, the first season of Bridgerton premiered on Netflix, kicking off 2021 with a major hit for the streaming service.
Bridgerton is set in 1813 during ‘the season’, where young women debut in the London ton in hopes of finding a suitable husband. Preferably a man of higher rank or from an important family. Meanwhile, various scandals, which tarnish the entire family’s reputation, are attempted to be avoided. For everyone’s entertainment, there is the column of the mysterious Lady Whistledown, who publicly exposes all scandals and serves as the series’ narrator. Essentially, Bridgerton is a combination of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Gossip Girl, and more than a few “Shades of Grey”. And perhaps just a veiled harlequin series: a bit cheesy but delightful to watch!
The family Bridgerton
The Bridgerton family consists of mother Violet and eight children: Anthony, Benedict, Colin, Daphne, Eloise, Francesca, Gregory, and Hyacinth. Yes, indeed, the names are in alphabetical order. Why? Just easier to remember.
In this season, daughter Daphne debuts in the London ton, the oldest three brothers each have their own love affairs, and daughter Eloise (who, along with best friend Penelope, steals the show) plays detective in hopes of discovering Lady Whistledown’s identity. Multiple storylines connected by the Bridgertons, but it’s mainly Daphne’s relationship with the Duke that forms the main thread.
As a family of already relatively high rank, finding a suitable spouse for Daphne (Phoebe Dynevor) is of great importance. This season also sees the Duke of Hastings (Regé-Jean Page) visiting London during ‘the season’ to handle some matters left by his deceased father, but certainly not to find a bride. Thus, Daphne and the Duke make a deal: they pretend to be interested in each other so that Daphne attracts more attention from high-ranking, eligible bachelors, and the Duke can finish his work without too much attention from debutantes and their mothers. However, as is typical of a good romantic drama, this relationship does not remain strictly business, and they must overcome many obstacles.
Historically inaccurate, but who cares
Is it a typical costume drama? No. The drama is there, the romance is there, and the story is full of scandals, but unlike similar stories, Bridgerton is sexually charged, including the corresponding scenes. Bridgerton isn’t as spicy as Fifty Shades yet, but the writers aren’t far off. This makes the series not suitable for all ages.
Although Julia Quinn based some elements and characters in her story on truth, Bridgerton is not a historically accurate description of the Regency period. Several black characters make their appearance, whereas this genre was previously inaccessible to black actors. This is likely the result of Shondaland’s efforts to cast its other series as diverse and inclusive as possible. Thus, Bridgerton excels within the costume drama genre.
As for the costumes and sets, I’ve been told they’re not entirely accurate historically. But who cares. The costumes are gorgeous, and the sets allow you to immerse yourself in 19th-century London.
Yet, this costume drama is also heavily influenced by the 21st century. Lady Whistledown’s anonymous column acts as a social medium. She exposes all secrets and scandals, destroying several reputations in the process.
For the observant listener, 21st-century pop music has also been a major inspiration. During the many dance scenes, the orchestra plays classical versions of songs like Ariana Grande’s Thank U Next, Taylor Swift’s Wildest Dreams, Shawn Mendes’ In My Blood, Maroon 5’s Girls Like You, and Billie Eilish’s Bad Guy.
Season Two?
A second season has not been officially announced yet, but it will likely come. The series is based on Julia Quinn’s book series, with each book focusing on a different Bridgerton. Plenty of material for a second season (and a third, and a fourth, and a fifth…).
For fans of Pride and Prejudice (1995; 2005), Emma (2020), but also Gossip Girl (2007-2012), this costume drama is a must-see. But also for anyone who just wants to daydream and enter a 19th-century reality. And Bridgerton has additional perks. Firstly, the season consists of ‘only’ 8 episodes, perfect for binge-watching. And secondly, none other than Julie Andrews is the voice of Lady Whistledown! Enough reasons to get addicted to the Bridgerton family’s affairs, just like 63 million other households.
Until that second season appears on Netflix (and it will still take a while), there are plenty of other series and movies to watch and music to listen to. The first season of Bridgerton is now available on Netflix.
Bridgerton (2020 -) – Netflix
The eight close-knit siblings of the Bridgerton family look for love and happiness in London high society. Inspired by Julia Quinn’s bestselling novels.
Cast: Phoebe Dynevor, Regé-Jean Page, Jonathan Bailey, Julie Andrews, and others.
Executive producer: Chris van Dusen
Studios: Shondaland & Netflix
