How the Cast and Author of Bridgerton Defend Benedict’s Controversial Proposal to His Mistress
The Bridgerton cast, along with author Julia Quinn, have responded to Benedict’s surprising proposal to Sophie, which sparked fan outrage after the season 4 scene aired.
Readers of Quinn’s novel An Offer From a Gentleman were already aware that when season 4 debuted in January 2026, Benedict’s (Luke Thompson) interest in a mysterious figure known as the Lady in Silver would create complications as he developed feelings for housemaid Sophie (Yerin Ha). Although Sophie is the Lady in Silver, her social standing hindered Benedict from pursuing a traditional courtship.
Instead, he proposed a more unconventional arrangement at the conclusion of part 1, suggesting that Sophie become his mistress.
“I stay away because you consume me. I acknowledged what you deserve—better,” he said. “And I am committed to giving it to you, and then some. Sophie, be my mistress.”
Even though this moment was directly taken from Quinn’s book, it prompted significant backlash from some audience members.
“The key point is that he evolves and overcomes that mindset, ultimately realizing, ‘You matter more than what anyone else thinks.’ I believe it’s just as romantic for him to learn that lesson rather than having it figured out from the start,” Quinn shared exclusively with Us Weekly in February 2026 regarding the significance of the offer. “I want to showcase character development. My characters shouldn’t be perfect at the outset; I want them to grow by the end.”
Keep scrolling to discover how the Bridgerton cast and crew defended Benedict in light of this controversial plot twist:
Breaking Down the Complicated Book Scene
“Given the period, it wasn’t unreasonable for Benedict to believe this was an acceptable request,” showrunner Jess Brownell remarked to TVLine in January 2026, admitting it was “a significant blunder on Benedict’s part.”
Brownell recognized that fans rooting for the romantic pairing might be disillusioned, adding, “He should be valuing Sophie beyond her social class. The outrage in response to his proposal is entirely justified.”
Following the intense reaction, Brownell emphasized Benedict’s outdated view of relationships.
“Much of his progressiveness—beyond his sexuality—has been superficial,” she observed regarding Benedict’s inclination towards conventional values. “He holds immense privilege and hasn’t fully confronted it. He has enjoyed life to the fullest but has never really faced a daunting challenge.”
Brownell also noted that pursuing an actual relationship with a maid would have societal repercussions. Despite the Bridgertons’ status, they would be ostracized, affecting Benedict’s sisters, who would become less attractive marriage prospects.
“Deep down, Benedict isn’t as courageous as he believes; he’s never truly ventured into bravery,” Brownell concluded.
Straight From the Source Material
In response to the backlash against Benedict’s proposition, author Julia Quinn stated exclusively to Us in February 2026, “It’s crucial to communicate how unprecedented it would be for him to propose marriage.”
Quinn emphasized that she had no specific demands for how her scenes were adapted but required the essence of the message to be retained.
“I made it clear that ensuring viewers understand this dynamic was essential, as it would seem quite harsh,” Quinn elaborated on Benedict’s offer to Sophie. “That’s why I often remind people, ‘The real issue isn’t that he makes this proposition; rather, it’s that this is the reality of the time.’”
Supporting Strong Opinions
“I’m genuinely pleased with how it turned out. It’s a very charged moment—until, of course, the shocking moment when Benedict proposed to Sophie,” Brownell shared with Variety. “Part of our aim is to highlight just how pronounced the class divide was during that era. In truth, what Benedict suggests would have been seen as the only feasible way for a gentleman and a housemaid to be together back then.”
She continued: “Thus, it’s not entirely outlandish for him to consider this romantic. But within the broader context of this being his true love and us witnessing their romance, it’s absolutely understandable for viewers to be outraged and frustrated with him. His lack of insight into how this situation will unfold is something we will address in the latter part of the series.”
Mixed Thoughts on the Final Cut
While Yerin Ha humorously remarked to The Kit in February 2026 that Benedict’s offer was a “blood red flag,” Luke Thompson offered a more compassionate view of his character.
“He might be somewhat afraid of what a truly committed relationship entails,” he reflected. “That’s intimidating for him, and there are valid reasons for that.”
Thompson was careful not to overly justify the situation.
“People are allowed to be angry. I understand that,” he admitted. “Yet I believe that drama should incite discussion; without some kind of provocation, it wouldn’t be as engaging to watch—there’d be little to talk about.”
