Bridgerton fans are not happy with one major lesbian switch up due for season four.
After backlash, Julia Quinn, who wrote the book series on which the Netflix period drama is based, has spoke out to defend her creation after it became apparent what was in store for the next series. And viewers aren’t happy with some of the adaptations.
The latest instalment followed the romance between Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) and Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) but towards the end of the series, fans were left with knowledge that a new relationship was indeed about to blossom.
In the final episode of Season 3, Into The Light, John Stirling makes an introduction. Francesca and Eloise Bridgerton are formerly aquatinted with his cousin, Michaela Stirling (Masali Baduza), at the Dankworth-Finch ball. It is obvious that an instant spark of chemistry is about to manifest.
Francesca says: “I caution you. Every sordid detail John has spoken about me is a lie.” To which Michaela responds: “The truth is far worse.” The shock liaison paves the way for a first time lesbian romance to become fruitful.
This however, was not as per Quinn’s 2002 novel, Romancing Mister Bridgerton. In the book, Francesca eventually falls in love with Michael Stirling, the cousin of her late husband John.
The Netflix version has instead swapped out Michael to make way for Michaela and is set to mark a first for the show with regards to a lesbian romance. Speaking out about the gender switch up, Quinn has stood by her decision for season four.
Addressing the matter over Instagram, she emphasised the show’s commitment to diversity. Quinn penned: “Dear readers, many Bridgerton fans have expressed their surprise, and for some, disappointment in the twist at the end of Bridgerton Season 3 – that Michael Stirling, with whom Francesca eventually falls in love in When He Was Wicked, would instead be Michaela.”
She continued: “Anyone who has seen an interview with me from the past four years knows that I am deeply committed to the Bridgerton world becoming more diverse and inclusive as the stories move from book to screen. But switching the gender of a major character is a huge change, and so when [showrunner] Jess Brownell first approached me with the idea of turning Michael into Michaela for the show, I needed more information before conferring my agreement.
“I trust Shondaland’s vision for Bridgerton, but I wanted to be sure that we could remain true to the spirit of the book and of the characters, I’m confident now that when Francesca has her Bridgerton season, it will be the most emotional and heart-wrenching story of the show,” explained the author.
Quinn wrapped up her post by thanking fans for their “understanding” and “deep commitment” to the programme and character adaptations.
Bridgerton series 1-3 are all streaming on Netflix, along with Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story.
