Julia Quinn, Author of Bridgerton, Stands by Benedict and Sophie’s Controversial Mistress Scene
Bridgerton author Julia Quinn has addressed the controversial mistress scene featuring Benedict and Sophie.
“It wasn’t just a scene,” Quinn told Us Weekly when asked what elements from the books were essential for season 4 of the popular Netflix series. “It’s about ensuring viewers grasp how extraordinary it would be for him to propose marriage.”
Quinn believes that her book readers are generally well-versed in the Regency era’s social norms, meaning they would understand how unusual it was for someone of Benedict Bridgerton’s stature (Luke Thompson) to consider marrying maid Sophie (Yerin Ha). However, viewers of season 4 might lack that historical context.
“That’s why I emphasized, ‘You need to make sure they get this, because otherwise, it could come off poorly,’” Quinn explained regarding Benedict’s proposal to Sophie. “So I always remind people, ‘The real issue isn’t that he makes this offer, or that he asks her to be his mistress; that’s the social reality of the time.’”
She added, “The main point is that he evolves, overcomes his biases, and ultimately acknowledges that ‘You matter more than what anyone else thinks.’ I believe it’s equally romantic that he undergoes this growth rather than being perfect right from the start. I want to portray character development; I prefer my characters to improve as the story progresses.”
In part 1 of Bridgerton season 4—based on Quinn’s third novel, An Offer From a Gentleman—Benedict finds himself smitten with both a guest at his mother’s masquerade ball and a maid named Sophie. Readers familiar with the series understand that these two women are actually one and the same.
As Benedict searches for his true love, he grapples with his feelings, knowing that Sophie’s lower social standing complicates their potential union. Ultimately, he tells Sophie she deserves better before asking her to be his mistress—a decision that has ignited discussions among fans cheering for their romance.
Quinn pointed out that Benedict’s outdated views on marriage are a “key theme” in the book, something viewers will likely witness further explored in part 2 of the Netflix series.
“The characters sometimes—well, I wouldn’t say ‘act foolishly’—but they don’t always make the right decisions immediately, and they need to learn,” she told Us. “Once again, I don’t want my characters to be flawless; I want them to evolve and learn, which explains their choices.”
As fans eagerly await the second part of season 4, Quinn is launching her JQ Editions to recommend other historical romance novels.
“I receive countless messages from readers asking, ‘What should I read after Bridgerton?’ and, ‘I’m new to historical romance—what do you recommend?’ Now I can say, ‘This is what you should read. These are my top picks,’” she told Us, while also promoting her collaboration with Spotify. “I do suggest titles on social media, but with this, it will be six books a year at the outset, and these will be the absolute best recommendations—books I’ll send straight to your home.”
Part 2 of Bridgerton season 4 will be available on Netflix on Thursday, February 26. All the Bridgerton audiobooks can be accessed via Spotify Premium.
