Bridgerton Season 4: Perception and Optics in the Tale of two Babies

Bridgerton's previous problems with perception and optics in relation to the character of Kathani 'Kate' Bridgerton, continue even before she has had any official promotional still released of her for season 4. In this case it relates to the production's treatment of Edmund Bridgerton, the baby of Kate and Anthony, and Elliot Bridgerton, the son of Penelope and Colin, specifically in how they have chosen to present these babies in promotion - or not. Whilst Elliot was seen in season 3 we did not have a name for him, in contrast Kate was roughly 5-6 months pregnant when the showrunner decided it was a good idea to send Kate and Anthony on a 6 month journey to India to have their baby (realistically he would have been born on the ship). Noting this fans of both couples had been highly anticipating season 4 in the hopes of seeing Edmund and Eliot, the introduction of the babies for the season has been vastly different. Both of these babies should be treated equally, however, the reality is that this has not happened in the lead in to the two parts of season 4, in fact the show has resolutely ignored Edmund whilst giving more attention than some feel warranted to Elliot, something that again raises questions around the show's treatment of the character Kate, and the show's commitment to diversity. 

Image Credit: Netflix

When looking at the official Instagram accounts there is an obvious disparity in how this show perceives and views the two offspring of these couples. Almost 40 days out from the release of part 1 an official announcement of Elliot's name was made on official social media sites, including a behind the scenes photo of Nicola with the baby, since there there have been multiple posts about Elliot which included behind the scenes photos or video, in addition the Netflix UK & Ireland official account, and the Netflix Australia & New Zealand official account have also posted multiple posts dedicated to Elliot. As I write this we are just over four days out from the release of part 2 and the official sites have not posted a still of Kate from the season, let alone any formal announcement introducing Edmund like they did for Elliot over a month out from release. The claim of some fans that it is to prevent spoilers is null and void when Kate was pregnant at the end of season 3 (so we know she had a baby), the 'heir' is mentioned in episode 1 of the new season (so we know it is a boy), and we have seen the baby in the trailer for part 2. The canon name for Kate and Anthony's first born is Edmund, and there is no reason for the show to change that (and leaks for part 2 confirm his name is Edmund in the show), so nothing would be a spoiler for the marketing team to provide an announcement and some photos like they did for Elliot. 

Image Credit: Netflix

Further adding to this uneven portrayal and validating the negative perception of the show are allegations from leaks that in part 2 Kate is not seen holding Edmund, in fact the leaks allege that only Violet (the grandmother) and Penelope are seen holding Edmund, this is especially insidious of the showrunner and production, because the symbolism of a mother holding her baby is significant. A mother holding a child in terms of visual storytelling is an often used signifier of nurturing and selfless love, key themes surrounding Kate in her season, and by having Penelope hold Edmund instead of Kate the production have reassigned these values to her. Whilst I am sure some will not view this as a big deal (often some fans say to 'chill it is just a TV show), this actually is a very important factor in how the audience interpret the characters, and by reassigning this visual cue of maternal love to Penelope over Kate for Edmund the audiences perception could shift in the way that they view these characters, and instead not see Kate as fully inhabiting th erole of a selfless, nurturing mother instead seeing that in Penelope only, feeding into a pattern of media representation where white characters are allowed to embody traditionally positive traits while women of colour cannot. Assuming these leaks are true, this is a deliberate choice by the showrunner, the writers and the director to strip an important visual signal of motherhood from Kate and give it to Penelope, further sidelining her character and framing Kate as an outsider in the Bridgerton family. 

In anticipation of some potential comments, it is important to note that as a Grandmother Violet is also a key carer for Edmund, and her holding Edmund is not as diminishing to Kate's role as the mother as it is having Penelope step in as if she is a replacement for Kate. 

Image Credit: Netflix Screenshot

The promotion clearly favours Penelope and Colin, and their white family, over Kate and Anthony's mixed race family as Kate and Edmund are not being prioritised in the same way that Penelope and Elliot are. Whilst this may seem like a minor issue to some it raises larger questions for viewers about what this show prioritises, and just how strong their commitment to being truly diverse and representative is, they are sending the message that whiteness is the priority, and (in this instance) South Asian representation is peripheral and unimportant to them. This also raises questions as to how the production may treat its current East Asian lead in future seasons, will she also be pushed to the periphery and will it be a situation where Sophie will also not be considered a true Bridgerton as Kate is not? Or will she gain better treatment and representation in future seasons? 

Bridgerton Production: More Spin Off Speculation

Last year I wrote about a possible second spin off after a post on Tom Verica's instagram re-ignited talk of a second spin off from Bridgerton.  Again Tom Verica has waded into the discussions around spin offs, this time at the Part 1 premiere for Season 4 where he confirmed that they were in discussions about some more spin offs, this time about characters the viewers already know.  This has again brought about the talk of possible spin offs into the fandom, I will not go over all of my previous speculations, you can read them here, however, I will look at one other possibility, and re-visit another popular choice for a spin off, and look at recent comments regarding it.  

Image Credit:  Netflix

Will and Alice Mondrich: 

Is it possible that one idea in discussion is a spin off that focusses on Will and Alice Mondrich? This could be a more popular choice than first appears as many fans are frustrated with how little they bring to the main show, but do like them as characters.  A spin off focussed on the Mondriches has the potential for rich storytelling depending on how it is approached. Will's career as a boxer, how he became friends with Simon, their struggles in the early part of their life, all contain opportunities for a spin off limited series.  The problem with Shondaland is that this story requires nuance and it is doubtful if the current creative team are up to the task. 

Image Credit: Netflix

Lady Danbury: 

With hints in part 1 of the latest season that Lady Danbury could be leaving the main show it has been suggested that there could be a spin off of Lady Danbury.  This could be told in two timelines with Lady Danbury returning to her homeland while having flashbacks to her childhood and early years in her abusive marriage.  While this sounds good in theory it is hard to know if it would resonate with the viewers who generally were not happy with the darker themes in the Queen Charlotte spin off (out of the main show and this it has the lowest viewership numbers).  From all accounts Lady Danbury's story would be darker than that of Queen Charlotte, however it has been suggested that it coud also lead into Hyacinth's season if Lady Danbury were to return to London with her daughter and grandson, Gareth.  But for a brand that began as a romance would the darker themes of Lady Danbury's story play well to the viewers?  

Image Credit: Netflix

Kate and Anthony: 

This is a spin off that has been discussed widely since season 2 aired, it is a popular choice for a spin off in the fandom, and with Anthony and Kate having been sent to India in season 3 it leaves open a wide range of potential for storylines that could explore Kate's past, and maybe show us a wedding that many fans have been craving to see. Despite this being one of the ideas with the most potential, it is also the most unlikely as it does seem that the production has some issue with Kate and Anthony, also it is the one spin off idea that Shonda Rhimes has ruled out definitively. Adding into the mix is a recent interview with US Weekly where Julia Quinn said that neither Jonathan Bailey or Simone Ashley would make themselves available for a TV show, though whether Julia was speaking on behalf of the actors or trying to make an excuse that would put the blame on them instead of production is not absolutely clear, though I suspect the latter. 

It should be noted that being 'in talks' about a spin off is not the same as a spin off happening, so it is a case of wait and see what Netflix does with regards to this. In the meantime fans will continue to hope for a spin off that is about their faves, but with the limited success of the Queen Charlotte spin off will Netflix see any of the current characters a viable option for one? 

Bridgerton Season 4: Episode 3 'The Field Next to the Other Road'

This episode starts where the previous episode left off with Sophie and Benedict on their way to London after departing Cavender's place. As it begins to rain Benedict diverts to My Cottage.  Despite Benedict having caretakers, the Crabtrees, there is no-one at the cottage, and as Benedict doesn't have a key Sophie breaks in via a window and they are able to enter the cottage, which - as Sophie states - is a little misleading since it is more of a country mansion than a cottage.  

Image Credit: Netflix

After getting a fire started, Benedict shows Sophie to a guest room telling her that she can wear any of the clothes, which are old clothes of his sister's that are inexplicably left at his place.  During the night Sophie is woken by Benedict crying out, and it turns out he is injured worse than he said, and it seems to have gotten infected causing Benedict to have a fever.  While Sophie is tending to Benedict's wound he hallucinates that she is the Lady in Silver - his subconscious showing him the truth in his delirium. The night passes with Sophie spending it in a chair beside Benedict's bed, and in the morning they are woken by the return of the Crabtrees.  

Image Credit: Netflix

During the episode Benedict and Sophie are isolated, and spend it in their own bubble at My Cottage as Benedict recovers from his injury and the resulting infection and fever. This is the first time since season 1 episode 6 that the main couple have been isolated away from the Ton. From a storytelling point of view this isolation works to develop their relationship without the distraction of the class divide, though we get moments of Mrs Crabtree playing the role of the wise mentor to both Sophie and Benedict reminding them each of their place in society and bringing them back to reality from the fantasy world they are inhabiting. These conversations with Mrs Crabtree emphasise the theme of this season of power imbalances, and the opposing sides of a fantasy versus reality.

At My Cottage we get snippets of information about both Benedict and Sophie as they grow closer, we learn Sophie is well educated in languages and art, meanwhile Benedict no longer considers himself an artist saying it is soething he dabbles in, calling back to season 2 when he felt like a fraud after finding out Anthony paid for his place at the Royal Academy.  Even though we saw some of Benedict's sketches of the Lady in Silver last episode, in this episode we see Benedict at his easel sketching the outline for a painting, implying that he is feeling inspired to paint again after talking about his art to Sophie. This idyll doesn't last long and soon Benedict is recovered enough to return to London, we see Sophie get changed back into her maid's outfit, and Benedict and Sophie depart My Cottage for London, ending the episode.

Image Credit: Netflix

While Benedict and Sophie are at My Cottage, life continues back in London for the Ton. We learn via Lady Whistledown that Sophie's departure was months prior, and her departure began the maid wars, as Lady Whistledown tells us that Araminta required four maids to replace her.  To get the additional staff she requires Araminta is poaching servants from other households by offering them more money, causing a domino effect of other households poaching servants from their friends and neighbours and so on.  In the Featherington Household Varley tells Portia that she has been offered another position for more money, which Portia believes she has declined. Varley requests an increase in her wages, however, Portia says that financial constraints means she is unable to as she would have to increase the wages of the other staff as well. Portia does give Varley her old gowns before replacing them with new gowns, something that Varley does not appreciate.  

Image Credit: Netflix

Elsewhere in the Ton we learn that Hyacinth is taking finishing lessons, and Violet has enlisted Eloise to chaperone her, giving Eloise the choice to either join society and talk to suitors or chaperone Hyacinth.  During the lessons Eloise shows that perhaps she isn't so keen on the spinster lifestyle after all, something that is highlighted when she is excluded from an outing with Penelope & Colin and Francesca & John because she is not married.  Eloise's isolation and sense of being an outsider is compounded when she walks in on Francesca and Penelope talking, and they immediately quieten on her arrival.  

Francesca spends much of the episode seeking to understand what the pinnacle is. After asking John why he thinks they aren't with child yet, and if he thinks she should be doing something, John tells her that he had heard that women are more likely to conceive if they reach their pinnacle.  This sets Francesca on her journey to discover what the pinnacle is as she does not know (despite lying to John that she was reaching her pinnacle). In this quest Francesca has a number of awkward conversations, first with her mother, then with Penelope to try and find out what the pinnacle is. 

Highs: 

• The My Cottage scenes, these were a breath of fresh air being out of London and in the country with time that allowed us to see and get to know Benedict and Sophie. This was reminiscent of Simon and Daphne at Clyvedon in season 1. 

• Sophie's gowns. Much has been said of the costuming choices in season 3, and some of the costuming choices for season 4, however, seeing Sophie in gowns that are more in line with season 1 and season 2 costumes was a real boost of seratonin

• Stockings! I don't mean generally either, it was so great to see Penelope wearing stockings in the Carriage Scene 2.0. I was not impressed with the fact she never wore stockings in season 3, so I am glad they remembered she is meant to be a lady. 

• The Lake Scene. Do I need to say more? We had a definite throwback to Anthony getting dunked, if a little more on display for Sophie than what Kate had.

Lows: 

• The caricature of Queen Charlotte that now exists in the space of her character from S1 and S2. This is hinting at a problem that Jess Brownell is facing with wanting (or having) to keep the character in the show but not actually knowing how to use her, and now she has become some caricature of what she was. 

• Violet and Marcus. I am just not feeling this storyline, and I am not sure what it is that isn't quite hitting with me, but I just feel that it is missing the mark a bit. 

• Having so few family scenes is starting to be missed a lot, this is no longer feeling like a show with a family at its heart. 

Bridgerton Season 4: Episode 2 'Time Transfixed'

Time Transfixed

Written by: Azia Squire

Similar to Episode 5 of season 2 this episode opens with memories, this season it is Benedict remembering his time with the Lady in Silver which is a call back to Kate remembering her time with Anthony in season 2. As we see Benedict sketching the Lady in Silver and remembering the Masquerade the shot morphs into a rewind of Sophie, taking her back to Penwood House just before the Ball.  

Image Credit: Netflix

This episode begins with introducing Sophie and allowing the viewers into her life, we learn about how she ended up at the Masquerade Ball, but also what her life is like with the Penwoods.  The flashbacks of Sophie give some context to her life, and hints at her past, telling the viewers that she is the illegitimate daughter of Lord Penwood and a Maid.  What is also established is Sophie's relationship with other servants in the Penwood House, those that know who she is, they are her cheer team and the ones that support her.  

Image Credit: Netflix

But this episode is not just about getting to know Sophie, Benedict is still obsessed with the Lady in Silver as he is sketching her while he is attending to business with Hatch, which leads to him beginning his search for the Lady in Silver, enlisting Eloise and Penelope's assistance.  The search has Benedict crossing paths with Rosamund Li, and showing us her determination on the marriage mart, and her determination to marry Benedict for the connection to the Bridgerton Family. 

Image Credit: Netflix

It is not until Violet gets involved that Benedict crosses paths with the Penwood ladies again, showing a patience and kindness to Posy that she doesn't seem to get from her mother and sister.  It is here that Sophie, witnessing Benedict's call on Posy, seems to begin falling in love, as she notes his kindness to her step sister.  It is at this call that Benedict inadvertantly, and unknowingly, gives away Sophie's secret to Araminta, leading to Sophie being removed from the household, not before the viewers learn that Sophie has been working as a maid without being paid  

Image Credit: Netflix

The episode ends with Benedict and Sophie crossing paths again at the home of Philip Cavender, the son of Sophie's new employer. This is Benedict's hero moment, but Sophie is not some damsel in distress, as we see Sophie save another maid from attack and becomes the target of the men, which is where Benedict steps in to save Sophie, but again inadvertantly getting her fired again.  The episode ends as Sophie leaves with Benedict, who has promised to find her a new job. 

One of the themes for this season that is emerging is that of power dynamics in relationships.  Not only do we see this played out with Sophie, but also between the Queen and Lady Danbury.  The Queen forbids Lady Danbury from leaving, reminding her that Lady Danbury is a subject, while Lady Danbury had thought of them as friends.  I have mixed views on this storyline however.  Despite the storyline being a parallel to that of the main storyline with the imbalances of power in relationships I feel that it could have been executed better, or perhaps utilised other characters, such as Violet and Mrs Wilson. 

Highs: 

• Sophie's relationships with the other servants in Penwood House, and her interactions with Posy
• Araminta.  I have to say she is a wonderful villain, and I hope their is no redemption for her.  Katie Leung is embracing the role wonderfully.  
• Posy and Rosamund.  These two are so different, and played so well by Isabella Weir and Michelle Mao, I am really liking their scenes.  Despite Rosamund being a bully and mean girl, the portrayal of Rosamund is done so wonderfully that you can't help but like her despite her meanness.  Posy is a delight, and so wonderfully innocent, I can't wait to see scenes with Posy and Hyacinth, I think they can be great friends, if Bridgerton will keep Posy in the show.  
• Seeing Sophie wear a shift under her stays.  
• The flashbacks for Sophie.  This is something that should have been done for Kate in season 2, and the fact it was missing left a lot of unanswered questions and lack of context for a lot of Kate's motivations.  Doing this for Sophie gives context to her storyline, her past, and her character development.  

Lows: 

• There was a lack of scenes that included the whole family, we got some one on one scenes with Benedict and Eloise, and Eloise and Hyacinth, but not to have the whole family in one scene gives the feeling that this season (as with seaosn 3) is losing the heart of the show and what made it good. 
• The need of the writers to bash us over the head with the 'Penelope Bridgerton' lines.  We know that Penelope is a Bridgerton, but I must question why they feel the need to make sure the viewers know this, it doesn't give great optics when they have done everything to remove Kate from the family and make it clear that Kate is an outsider and not in the inner circle.  
• The writers have let down the show a bit with the characterisation of Eloise.  There is so much to explore of the character from season 1 and season 2 that they have just abandoned, instead turning Eloise into some caricature of the spoiled rich girl.  

Mixed: 

• Makeup. After criticism of the heavy makeup from last season the team was changed, however, it isn't all for the better.  While some of the characters have good, and appropriate, makeup (Sophie), some is still looks heavy (Penelope), and others is just bad.  Eloise looks washed out in a lot of scenes and I am not sure if this is the makeup or the lighting, but it just does not do anything for the character or the actress.  

Bridgerton Season 4: Kate and Anthony Baby Speculation

In episode 1 it was confirmed that Kate and Anthony had their baby in India and it was a baby boy (whom I will call Edmund) who is now Anthony's heir, but the glimpse of Kate and Anthony with a baby in the part 2 teaser trailer has led to some speculation that they may be returning for India with two babies.  

So why is there speculation that there could be two babies when we only saw one baby in the teaser?  There are two main factors that are making some fans believe this: 

1. During the run of Richard II Jonathan Bailey responded to a fan question about the baby with the question 'which one?', something that led many to believe he meant Kate and Anthony had two babies. 
2. In an interview during press for Picture This, Simone Ashley teased that Kate and Anthony were returning with a surprise in season 4. Many fans thought that the surprise might be a second baby, mostly because one baby wouldn't really be a surprise since Kate was visibly pregnant when they left for India. 
3. The final thing that has fuelled speculation of a second baby for Kate and Anthony is the glimpse of them and their baby in the part 2 trailer. The baby looked to be 6-8 months old, maybe a month or two older (I have heard 9 months), which is a bit younger than the baby playing Elliot looked to be.  

Others have said that the baby is Edmund, and the only baby for Kanthony, so what is the situation? We will of course know more on 26 February, but for now I have provided two theories on where we might stand with a baby (or two) for Kate and Anthony. 

Image Credit: Screenshot from S4 Part 2 Teaser

The Edmund Theory: 

It has been said by some on Twitter that this baby is Edmund, and that they don't have two.  But the age and appearance of the baby makes it a little confusing as Edmund would be older than Elliot, however, this baby looks younger.  Remembering that it was widely discussed that there was a scene cut from part 1 of Anthony and Kate with their baby, so what if this is the scene that was cut? Theorising that this may have been the scene cut, was it meant to be at the beginning of the season? If so is it possible that this scene is in India, (I have been told that it was originally going to be included in episode 1, though this is unverified until the original scripts are available), and shows Kate and Anthony with Edmund discussing returning to England?

This is all speculation and theorising, but based on some of the information available on Social Media it appears that this is meant to be Edmund, so them being in India with Edmund is the only possible explanation. Which leads to the question, how will this scene fit into part 2 if this is the case. Has Jess just forgotten that Edmund is meant to be older than Elliot? Or is there another possible explanation? 

What if this scene is as speculated above, a scene of Kate and Anthony in India with Edmund discussing a return to England? Is it possible that in Part 2 they do a quick flashback for Kate and Anthony, then show them returning to England with an older Edmund? I remember seeing somewhere that the casting agents were allegedly casting for a Toddler as well, I have been unable to find a copy of the casting notice to know what the casting notice said exactly, but if they were also casting for a toddler, then this theory of a flashback before Kate and Anthony arriving in London could have some merit. 

Another wrinkle in the theory above is that some fans on twitter have said that the bed looks like it could be the bed from Aubrey Hall, which would negate the idea that this baby is Edmund and there is only one baby for Kate and Anthony due to the age of the baby.  

Baby Number 2 Theory: 

Another theory is that there are two babies and this is baby number 2, either Miles or Charlotte, (or a second baby with an Indian name). This theory is partially based on the three reasons given in the opening paragraph, but also the age of the baby (as discussed above).  The baby looks to be several months younger than the baby we saw playing Elliot in the first episode, suggesting that perhaps Kate and Anthony have had a second baby while in India.  Another interesting nugget that may potentially give a hint to a second baby is this article posted by Shondaland for the release of the trailer.  In this article they talk about the usual Bridgerton siblings - and a new baby... or two.  Now, this could be referring to Elliot and Edmund, but as Elliot was in season 3, it could also be hinting at a second baby for Kate and Anthony.  To revisit the speculation that the glimpse in the season 4 teaser is at Aubrey Hall could we first meet Kate and Anthony at Aubrey Hall with Edmund and his little brother or sister, rather than them returning to Bridgerton House straight away?  

Whether it is one baby, or two, I hope that we see Anthony and Kate as parents more than once. 

Bridgerton Season 4: Part 1 First Thoughts

I know I have already put up my review of the first episode (which can be read here), but now that I have seen all of part 1 I thought I would do a brief overview of my general thoughts. 

Image Credit: Netflix

The Good

• Yerin Ha. She is a dream and is the perfect Sophie. I can't wait to see Sophie's story continue.
• The Chemistry between Yerin and Luke Thompson fits Benedict and Sophie's story so well. While the chemistry between them is different to that of Simone and Jonathan in season 2, and doesn't come across as charged, I think it is a great fit for the story they are telling.
• The Penwood/Li family.  I know Araminta and Rosamund are meant to be the villains, but they were so well cast, and I just love Michelle Mao as Rosamund.  As for Posy, what can I say, she is adorable, and Isabella Wei is so wonderful bringing a wide eyed innocence to the role. 
• The increased focus on the leads.  Not since Season 1 has it felt like a season put the main spotlight on the main couple, but also it is not since Season 1 that we have had a season that is as close to the boook as this one is. It almost feels like if they stick with the book plot it works well.  Of course this season is not perfect, but it does feel a lot better than the previous season. I hope that it continues into part 2. 
• Sophie's costumes. It is something when the best costumes are a maid's!  But it is not just her maid costumes, but also the dresses she wore at My Cottage, what we saw was something that felt like the Bridgerton of Season 1 and Season 2, they were understated and simple, something that fit the story well.  Overall the costumes this season appear to be toned down from last season, which is a move in the right direction.  
• Flashbacks for Sophie. Flashbacks is something that was missed both with giving more context to Kate and her situatioin in season 2. Seeing the flashbacks for Sophie really helped with fleshing out her character and giving context to her story and situation. 
• The Maid Wars and Servants storyline, is a nice addition to the Bridgerton world, and works as it ties in with the main story, unlike some of the subplots. 
• Makeup on the lead.  I think that the make up we saw on Sophie was well done, and fit her role and position, it will be interesting to see what they do with it after she becomes a Bridgerton and is no longer working as a maid.  I will note that SOME of the other characters also had much better makeup than in the previous season, but as per below some did not. 
• No more gauze fingerless mittens, and seeing Penelope actually wearing stockings, was a vast improvement over S3 where Penelope was wearing no stockings (not even prostitutes went without stockings) and was wearing fingerless mittens that looked like gauze wrapped around her hand.  

The Bad

• The lack of full family scenes was noticeable, as was the absence of Kate and Anthony.    My hope is that this is remedied in part 2 and with Gregory back, and the return of Kate and Anthony, we will see the return of the family dynamics we all love. 
• The constant reference of Mrs Bridgerton, Mrs Colin Bridgerotn, or Penelope Bridgerton, to ram home that Penelope is now a Bridgerton, was not only not subtle, it highlighted that this show sees Penelope as a Bridgerton (and wants everyone to know this) whilst Kate is mostly not referred to in a manner that positions her as a Bridgerton (once or twice in S3, and not at all in part 1).  This differentiation in how the show presents the two women who married into the Bridgerton family is obvious, and gives us the sense they are hitting us over the head about Penelope, while wanting the viewers to forget that Kate is both a Bridgerton, and the Viscountess.  
• Makeup on supporting characters.  Most notably the make up on Penelope and Alice felt much heavier and more noticeable than on Sophie, and some of the other characters.  Penelope's makeup in episode 2 really stood out, she was at home but had a full face of heavy makeup and noticeable lipstick.  Unlike some fans I will not comment on the makeup seen on Kate in the teaser, because without context I don't feel it can be judged.  In contrast to the heavier makeup on Penelope and Alice, Eloise's makeup had her looking washed out in a lot of scenes, which aged her a lot.
• CGI, especially in episode 4.  There was some very obvious, and badly done CGI in epsiode 4 which takes the viewer out of what is happening onscreen and distracts from the story.  

Overall this was a good start to the new season, I am looking forward to how it goes in part 2, but based on part 1 I can see this displacing season 1 as my second favourite season.  

Bridgerton Season 4: Benedict Finding his Purpose

A few days ago I did a post on the difference between the Heir Presumptive and the Heir Apparent, and how that relates to Bridgerton.  In that post I explained how Benedict was the Heir Presumptive, but he has since been displaced due to the birth of Kate and Anthony's son, (whom I will call Edmund). I believe that this is something that should be playing a part in season 4 as Benedict regains his purpose in life, and navigates no longer being Anthony's heir. 

Image Credit: Netflix

Over season 1 and season 2 Benedict developed his art and explanded his social circles to include more artists. In the background of Benedict discovering himself was always the knowledge he was Anthony's heir, this was very much a part of season 1 when Benedict realised he might have to take over if Anthony was killed in the duel against Simon. By season 2 Benedict was exploring his art more, and looking at taking it further by applying to the Royal Academy, this sense of moving forward and away from responsibilities could have been prompted by Anthony's decision to marry, which could lead to him gaining an heir and releasing Benedict from the responsibility. However, by the end of season 2 Benedict had become disillusioned due to Anthony's intervention, and he felt that his place in the Royal Academy was bought and not earned, leading Benedict to give up his art. Ideally this should have been the shift into Benedict's season, but the production had a different idea, and come season 3 we saw Benedict straddling two senses of self, the first as he filled in for Anthony finding some purpose in running the estate, but also we saw him experimenting in his personal life, setting him up for how he starts season 4. 

Image Credit: Netflix

In the advanced screening of episode 1 (which will be released in an hour or so as of writing this), we see Benedict moving further from duty and purpose towards a lifestyle of reckless behaviour and self indulgence. This change for Benedict is something that could have been prompted by the birth of Edmund, who is now Anthony's heir. Benedict has been displaced as the heir to the Viscountcy by the birth of Edmund, and while he may not have wanted to be the next Viscount, his displacement will have impacted him as he has lost his place in the world. Violet makes a comment about Benedict's behaviour over the previous month, this is a timeframe that likely coincided with when the family received word of Edmund's birth, confirming to Benedict that he was no longer Anthony's heir, this is reinforced by Benedict reminding his mother he is the second son. Benedict reminding Violet he is the second son is said with frustration, and perhaps a little bitterness, because for him it is a reminder that his place in the world for the last 10+ years, as Anthony's heir - no matter how unwelcome it was - is now lost, but I think this could also be a catalyst that helps him to return to his art.  

Image Credit: Netflix

From stills released it is shown that Benedict starts to sketch again after he has met Sophie, as the Lady in Silver, and while she is the one that inspires him, and becomes his muse, it is possible that he becomes more open to looking at art again for his path in life due to the birth of Edmund. 

We can only speculate on how much, or little, Benedict's sense of self and purpose in life is tied to his position as the second son, the heir until the birth of Edmund, as this is not something I feel the show will explore too deeply. It is possible that Benedict, has felt a sense of duty while acting on behalf of Anthony, but has confused this with a sense of purpose, leading to him losing sight of who he is.  The birth of Edmund, and then meeting Sophie has given him the freedom, and the inspiration, to return to discovering what his true purpose in life is, and allowing him to become his true self.  

Heir Presumptive vs Heir Apparent and how it applies to the Bridgertons

This was originally a much longer post, however, I have made the decision to split the original post and make it two posts, turning this one into a much shorter post. I will post the second part of this prior to the release of season 4.   

Note: For the Purpose of this post I am making the assumption that the show has kept Edmund as the name for Kate and Anthony's son.  

About a month ago I saw a comment on Reddit referring to Benedict as Anthony's Heir Apparent, but this isn't quite right, and I realised there are some in the Bridgerton fandom that don't understand what these terms mean.  Benedict was Anthony's Heir Presumptive, not his Heir Apparent, so ahead of season 4 let's look at the difference between an Heir Presumptive (Benedict) versus an Heir Apparent (Edmund) using Benedict and Edmund as examples.  

Image Credit: Netflix

An Heir Presumptive is someone who is an heir, but can be displaced with the birth of a closer eligible (usually male) relative. In the world of Bridgerton when Anthony became the Viscount, on the death of Edmund, Benedict's role in the family changed as well as he became the heir presumptive to the Viscountcy. As Benedict would be displaced when Anthony married and had a son, he would only be known as an Heir Presumptive, even if he eventually inherited and became the Viscount. If Anthony never married, Benedict would remain the Heir, but he would always be the Heir Presumptive as there would always be the possibility of Anthony marrying and having a son.  

Image Credit: Netflix

This leads us to the term Heir Apparent that was mistakenly applied to Benedict. An Heir Apparent is someone who is an heir with an absolute claim, meaning there is no way that a closer eligible relative could be born and displace the Heir.  In the Bridgerton world Anthony was the Heir Apparent to Edmund as his eldest son, and likewise Edmund (Anthony's son) is now the Heir Apparent to Anthony, because even with the birth of more sons to Anthony and Kate Edmund can not be displaced as the Heir.  

As in my note at the top of the page this was originally going to lead into a longer post, that was going to look at how Benedict's journey could be seen through this idea of the Heir Presumptive vs the Heir Apparent and what the birth of Edmund could mean for him, but I have separated that original post into two.  

Bridgerton Season 4: Episode 1 'The Waltz'

Spoiler warning:  Please note that this review will contain spoilers from the first episode of Bridgerton Season 4 which releases on 29 January 2026.  

The Waltz

Written by:  Jess Brownell

Fans were given a preview of the first episode of season 4 during the first premiere held in Paris almost 2 weeks ago.  Again the feel of the show is very different under Jess Brownell as showrunner compared to the first two seasons, and even more so for this episode as it is the first episode not to begin with the presentation of a Bridgerton.  

The episode begins in a Downton Abbeyesque way by following the servants as they prepare for the return of Francesca & John, and Eloise, from Scotland.  However, the beginning also gave us a quick check in with the main Bridgertons we will be seeing this season, as well as a quick update to let us know that Kate gave birth to a boy, (whom I will refer to as Edmund as we have not officially been told his name), whilst setting up the story for Benedict.  

We learn that Benedict has been partying a little too hard, and has seemed aimless - particularly over the month prior to the beginning of this season, as with previous male leads we see him in casual liaisons near the beginning, it will be interesting if that continues after he meets Sophie.  There is one point where Benedict appears to resent being the 'second son', whether this is connected to the birth of Baby Edmund as Anthony's heir, and thus displacing Benedict as the heir, it is hard to know, but is definitely a possibility.  As with Anthony in season 2, and Daphne in season 1, Violet's focus for this season is on ensuring Benedict and, (as we later learn), Eloise get married.  Whilst the beginning of the season is about setting up Benedict for the season, unlike in season 2 with Kate, we don't get an early introduction to Sophie as the main female protagonist.  For those that are unaware of Sophie being the main love interest, and her story, I think the way she was introduced will be a surprising reveal, as long as the set up is expanded upon for her storyline and Jess Brownell doesn't fall into the trap of seaosn 2 in failing to provide a well executed story arc for her.  

For this season the main set piece is the Masquerade Ball, which takes up most of this first episode.  This is Violet's ball, and we learn that Violet has taken over the hosting of the first ball of the season from Lady Danbury, something that I find problematic for a couple of reasons, not least of which is that the ball is hosted in Bridgerton House, which is Kate and Anthony's house, which lends to the perception that this production does not view Kate as the Viscountess Bridgerton and rightful Lady of the House for Bridgerton House. This is reinforced by having the writers refer to Kate and Anthony as 'Anthony and his bride' during the ball when talking with Araminta, this is immediately followed up with her saying 'Penelope and Colin'. 

Image Credit: Netflix

The ball acts as a way for many characters to provide information of future intent, or set up potential future storylines, mostly circling Queen Charlotte, Lady Danbury and Penelope, in addition to setting up the love story. Lady Danbury informs the Queen of her intent to leave and visit her ancestral lands, thus setting up the possibility of Lady Danbury being written out this season, and perhaps have her place at the side of the Queen to be taken over by Penelope, who has provided the Queen with information on members of the Ton. 

Image Credit: Netflix

The main part of the ball is the meeting of Sophie and Benedict. Sophie is not introduced properly, we see her putting on her mask prior to the ball at the end of a monatage showing the main characters getting ready for the ball, and then we see her briefly arriving in a carriage and being addressed as My Lady. At this point, like Benedict, the viewers don't know who she is, but unlike Benedict the viewers are aware she does not belong, and that she sneaked into the ball. After the ball, as Sophie arrives home we learn that she is a maid to Araminta and her household. However, very little is known about her. I found this way of introducing her as interesting, and for someone who was unaware of the story, it would have been a surprising reveal. 

Image Credit: Netflix

The season is starting well with this episode, it showed a good dynamic and good chemistry between the leading pair, and the potential for interesting storylines, if the writers wish to make it so. The only black mark for this episode was the erasure of Kate as Viscountess, that the writer (who is also the showrunner) was unable to have any character say her name was, in my opinion, very telling about how much this showrunner cares for the Bridgerton family. The worst line relates to this, where Mrs Wilson says she was glad The Viscountess gave birth in India, which says a lot without saying much about how this production appears to view the Viscountess. 

Image Credit: Netflix

Highs: 

• The main couple, they were funny, sexy and had a great dynamic. 
• Our first look at the Li Family / Penwoods. The short amount we saw them onscreen was magical, they bring a different vibe to the show, and I am certainly looking forward to seeing them going forward 
• Seeing the glimpse into the servant's world. Controversial, but I think that the Bridgerton servants presented a better option for side stories than characters who don't connect into the Bridgerton family, or main story, or those that are forced into the stories in an unnatural way

Lows: 

• The lack of Kate and Anthony in the first episode was noticeable
• Not having any Bridgerton family moments, it is feeling less and less like they are a family, and more like they are characters existing in a workplace - perhaps this is what Shonda means when she calls Bridgerton a workplace drama? This is no longer about a family, but rather she sees the Bridgertons as nothing more than colleagues co-existing. 
• The erasure of Kate as a character by Jess Brownell 

On the Fence: 

• The Mondriches. I am still unclear what storytelling importance these characters have, and I do feel that Jess Brownell is not using them in the best way possible. She was so keen to make them part of the ton that she missed on how they could be incorporated into the show in the best possible way. I will see how their story progresses in the rest of the season. 

Bridgerton Season 4: Is Early Promotion Missing the Mark?

Early promotion for season 4 began just before Christmas with a 12 days of Bridgerton promotion that promised exclusive videos, never before seen photos and even giveaways.  The takeaway from many fans was that there would be something new from season 4 each day, however, what they got was definitely less than the expectation.  This promotion started promisingly with an in-character promotion video of Benedict and Sophie, the new stills on day 2 were soured a little with a still of Penelope forced in ahead of the still of Sophie. By day 3 expectation was high for new stills or character promo to introduce the new characters, however, the merchandising collaboration fell short of expectations, and hopes, of the fans.  With more stills and a short video of Jess talking about S4 with vague references to the main story was again a little disappointing for the fans.  

Video Credit: Netflix

Day 7 delivered the expected in-character promotion video of Penelope and Colin Shondaland and Netflix reinforced negative perceptions on their commitment to diversity and representation when that was followed by an announcement of the name of Penelope and Colin's baby, and a behind the scenes picture of Nicola Coughlan with the baby. This had some questioning why a white baby gets an announcement when the mixed babies have not, and this is not helped by the fact that we still have yet to see Kate and Anthony's baby on screen - or any evidence that we will see him onscreen.  Most fans believe that we could have waited until the release of the season to find out the name of the baby, just as we did with Daphne and Simon's baby in season 2, but for whatever reason Shondaland and Netflix decided a self important 'baby announcement' was required, reinforcing the view that for them only the white characters matter.  

The Netflix tie in promotional spots with the NFL during the 12 days of Bridgerton promotion also was a bit of a miss for the Bridgerton team, this was cringe to a lot of people, and made very little sense as a cross promotion considering Bridgerton is a show set in Regency England, not modern day United States.    

Image Credit: Netflix

As mentioned above there were stills released during this 12 Days promotion, including long awaited solo stills of the leads, but the aforementioned positioning of a still of Penelope in the middle of stills of the leads, and ahead of the leading lady, was not received as well as they may have expected outside of the Polin fandom.  This positioning showed that they either lacked awareness in their efforts to promote Penelope, or were uncaring of the optics of positioning a white woman whose season is over ahead of a woman of colour who is the season's leading lady.  This looks bad for a show that is claiming to be diverse and representative, as the message they were sending was that the white season 3 lead was of higher importance than the Korean lead for the season they are promoting.  

Image Credit: Netflix

However, there were some positives with the announcement of the season 4 world premiere in Paris, and the trailer being released.  

But the issues with the early season 4 marketing do not stop there.  On New Year's Day they released a 'family' promotion showing the Bridgerton family cast members giving their character's New Year Resolutions.  The issues that many saw with this promotion was about who wasn't included, as opposed to who was.  

First it was noted that neither Wil Tilston nor Jonathan Bailey were there to round out the Bridgerton siblings, suggesting that they don't value those they have given smaller storylines too.  But additionall it was noted that Nicola Coughlan was included in the promotion, and while Penelope is a Bridgerton, her inclusion led to questions why she was the only 'spouse' to be included.  Hannah Dodd was in the promotion, but Victor Alli, who plays her husband John, was not.  As mentioned there was no Jonathan Bailey, which means Simone Ashley was also missing.  If this promotion was meant to be 'family only' then why include Nicola and not Wil at the very least, but preferably Wil and Jonathan?  But if this promotion was meant to include spouses then why wasn't Victor at the very least included, or (again preferably) Victor and Simone?  If the promotion was not meant to be the siblings and spouses, or the siblings only, then why not include Yerin who is the season's leading lady?  Essentially this promotion on New Year's Day was a 'terribly white' promotion (to steal a phrase from Adjoa Andoh), and has done nothing to alter the negative perceptions held about Shondaland and Netflix.  

It should also be noted that there still has yet to be a 'passing of the baton' from the Season 3 couple, and most likely will not be, something that was one of the first promotional clips done for season 3.  This again raises questions as to why did the gay man and dark skinned South Asian woman have to 'pass the baton' while the straight white couple do not have to?  Of course promotion is just beginning, maybe this is still coming, but considering they have begun the character introductions this week I highly doubt it.