Bridgerton Seasons 5 and 6: Julia Quinn Reveals the Upcoming Leads
Bridgerton author Julia Quinn has shared updates regarding the upcoming seasons of the series, including which actors are set to lead.
“I know who is lined up next,” Quinn, 55, revealed exclusively to Us Weekly on Thursday, May 22, while discussing her role as a judge for The Novelry’s “Next Big Story” writing contest. “That might change, as the order has shifted in the past.”
The Netflix series Bridgerton is based on Quinn’s eight-book romance series, where each Bridgerton sibling has their own path to love. The first season adapted book No. 1, The Duke and I, centered on Daphne’s (Phoebe Dynevor) courtship, while season 2 explored Anthony’s (Jonathan Bailey) journey in The Viscount Who Loved Me. However, seasons 3 and 4 switched the order of An Offer From a Gentleman, featuring Benedict (Luke Thompson), and Romancing Mister Bridgerton, which follows Colin (Luke Newton).
Season 4, which focuses on Offer and Benedict’s quest for love, is currently in production, with two additional seasons already confirmed. Although it’s uncertain which Bridgerton sibling will be featured next, potential leads include Eloise (Claudia Jessie), Francesca (Hannah Dodd), Gregory (Will Tilston), or Hyacinth (Florence Hunt).
“My hope is that all the siblings will eventually take the spotlight because we love them all,” Quinn told Us. “That was essentially the intent of the books: to convey these eight distinct stories, all interconnected.”
Although Quinn wrote her novels in a specific order, she expressed that she was “fine” with Shondaland choosing to rearrange the progression.
“In books, film, or television, each medium has unique requirements … to function effectively and leverage its own strengths,” Quinn explained. “Certain elements that shine in books may not translate well to television. Thus, one adjustment made for the series, which was essential, was to shape it more as an ensemble.”
Quinn further observed that “due to how the narrative evolved” on screen, it made sense for Colin’s romance with Penelope (Nicola Coughlan) to precede that of Benedict and Sophie (Yerin Ha).
The choice to not adhere strictly to Julia Quinn’s book order has drawn mixed reactions. The historical drama, which debuted in 2020, showcases the wealthy Bridgerton family in their pursuit of love in 19th century London. Season 1 centered around Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor) and […]
“I was somewhat surprised by the intensity of the ‘Benophie’ fans’ reactions. They were really upset,” the bestselling author shared with Us. “I felt compelled to say, ‘Hey, you know, the longer we delay their story, the more we get to enjoy Benedict in the narrative,’ because traditionally, once a couple completes their main arc, they tend to appear less often. I believe the wait will be worth it.”
Quinn assures that season 4 will “be fantastic” for fans when they finally get to see the episodes next year.
“I’ve read all the scripts and glimpsed some episodes,” she teased, noting her recent visit to the set in England. “I witnessed a few scenes being filmed, particularly a group scene. It’s always special to see because one of the show’s strengths is capturing that familial essence.”
Without revealing specifics, Quinn remarked that the family-centered scene “was truly beautiful.”
As Quinn waits for more information about the final cut of Bridgerton season 4, she is occupied judging The Novelry’s “The Next Big Story” writing contest.
Season 4 of Bridgerton will feature many beloved characters — but not all of them are returning for another round of episodes. The series is rooted in the book collection by Julia Quinn, focusing on the affluent Bridgerton family as they seek romance in 19th century London. Season 1 centered on Daphne Bridgerton […]
“This innovative contest judges just three pages of a novel for a significant prize,” Quinn explained, referring to the $100,000 reward. “I remember thinking, ‘Wait, really just three pages?’ Because it seemed a bit outrageous. But the truth is, I’ve often found that within just a few pages, I know if I’m interested or not. So, I thought, ‘Let’s see what can be done in three pages.’”
Quinn, who emphasizes her passion for finding new authors, is also eager to collaborate with the judging panel, which includes Emma Roberts, Zosia Mamet, Carley Fortune, Yann Martel, and Zibby Owens, among others who will review the submissions.
“These are people I truly admire, and part of my enthusiasm comes from the chance to meet authors I respect but haven’t had the chance to connect with before,” Quinn said excitedly. “I’m really looking forward to it.”
The “The Next Big Story” contest opened on May 1 and is set to close on July 31, with the winner announced in October.
“The barriers to engaging with fiction writing seem quite high. Many self-doubt and struggle to muster the courage to attempt,” The Novelry founder and fellow author Louise Dean commented to Us about the contest’s objectives. “We aim to change this with an extraordinary prize that celebrates creative impulses, capturing that moment when the first sentence is penned and anything is possible! With ‘The Next Big Story’ prize, we aspire to inject the energy seen in the music industry into the publishing realm. Everyone’s welcome. Let’s uncover new voices.”
Bridgerton season 4 is set to premiere in 2026.
