By Susan Granger
Gentle Reader, another scandal-filled social season has launched on Netflix’s beloved Regency-era drama “Bridgerton” – focusing on the second Bridgerton son, free-spirited Benedict (Luke Thompson), who may be ready to settle down.
Benedict has enjoyed many liaisons – with both men and women – relishing his freedom and unwilling to make any kind of commitment – until he spies a mysterious Lady in Silver at his mother’s – Lady Violet’s (Ruth Gemmell) -Masquerade Ball. It’s housemaid Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha) in disguise.
Her disappearance spurs Benedict to hunt for her everywhere – to no avail. In the meantime, he turns his ardor toward the Bridgerton’s new maid, the same Sophie, aware that their cross-class marriage is forbidden not only by society but also by Benedict’s older brother Anthony (Jonathan Bailey) who controls family finances.
Meanwhile, Sophie’s evil stepmother, Lady Penwood (Katie Leung), spews her wrath…Francesca (Hannah Dodd) faces a dilemma with her husband’s cousin Michaela (Masali Baduza)…Hyacinth (Florence Hunt) is insecure about her debut…and gossiper Penelope (Nicola Coughlan) – a.k.a Lady Whistledown (voiced by Julia Andrews) – wants to focus her attention elsewhere,
Helmed by showrunner Jess Brownell, who intensifies the character development, emotional depth, and romantic tension, this Shondaland series is based on Julia Quinn’s novels about the eight close-knit Bridgerton siblings looking for a good match on the marriage market in diverse 19th century England, where Queen Charlotte (Golda Rosheuvel) reigns and racism seems to have disappeared.
“We were two separate societies, divided by color, until King George fell in love with one of us,” explained influential Lady Danbury (Adjoa Andoh).
Before the credits roll, we’re teased about a new Lady Whistledown and there’s a surprise scene at Benedict’s country estate – revealing a full-length portrait of Sophie from the masquerade ball – with her mask removed.
So the saga continues – with seasons 5 and 6 already in development, focusing on Francesca and avowed ‘spinster’ Eloise (Claudia Jessie).
On the Granger Gauge of 1 to 10, “Bridgerton: Season 4” is another spicy, steamy 7 – with all episodes streaming on Netflix.
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Susan Granger
Westport resident Susan Granger grew up in Hollywood, studied journalism with Pierre Salinger at Mills College and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with highest honors in Journalism. In addition to writing for newspapers and magazines, she has appeared on radio and television as an anchorwoman and movie critic for many years. Read all her reviews at susangranger.com.
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