Surprise, Bridgerton fans. During an FYSEE Panel, Nicola Coughlan revealed that season 3 of the hit Netflix series will no longer follow the order of the book series. How so? By jumping ahead and telling the love story of Colin Bridgerton and Penelope Featherington.

If the series were to go in book order, Benedict would be up next. However, knowing that Bridgerton has only been given 4 seasons from Netflix, what does this change possibly mean for the future love stories?

WHAT WE KNOW SO FAR

The most recent Bridgerton season placed a lot of storyline nuggets for Penelope, Colin, and Eloise’s love stories, but not so much for Benedict besides ending at his cottage. A huge moment from Book 4, Romancing Mr. Bridgerton, happened in the finale of season 2. Penelope overhears Colin, who she’s been in love with for years, saying he would never marry her.

We also closed the Marina chapter for Colin, as well as making Sir Philip a larger character, who is the focus of Eloise’s love story. Another change – yes, there are more – is the recasting of Francesca. Previously played by Ruby Sokes, Francesca has been aged a couple of years and replaced by Hannah Dodd (Anatomy of a Scandal). 

While, yes, Ruby Sokes is 21 and has landed the lead role in the new Netflix series Lockwood & Co she has a babyface. Dodd is 27, which leads me to believe that season 3 will set up Francesca’s love story for season 4, along with Benedict. 

WHAT COULD HAPPEN IN SEASON 3?

Similar to the Bridgerton books, Francesa hasn’t been a standout family member so far. However, she could debut into society and quickly marry John Stirling, Earl of Kilmartin. It’s known (by book readers) that she felt from the moment they’d met that he was the love of her life and that they were meant to be together. However, her love story doesn’t end there. 

In Romancing Mr. Bridgerton, Penelope’s biggest secret comes to light. Will they choose to reveal Lady Whistledown in the same epic manner? Or, will they wait for a season 4 series finale? 

If they choose to do the giant reveal in season 3, they could use the party as the moment Benedict meets Sophie setting us up for his love story. 

I actually think this move in Bridgerton Saga storytelling is really smart by the new series showrunner, Jess Brownell. Benedict hasn’t been set up in the same way Anthony was in season 1. In order for viewers to care writers need to pull focus his way so that we can enjoy his Cinderella fairytale romance. 

What do you think about the book order shift? Who should play Sophie and Michael in the upcoming Bridgerton seasons? Comment below and let us know!

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