In an interview with Netflix's Tudum platform, showrunner Jess Brownell detailed the plans for the upcoming season, confirming that filming is underway. The decision to focus on a same-sex female romance marks a notable development for one of the streaming service's most successful properties.
The storyline deviates from Julia Quinn's sixth book, When He Was Wicked, in which a widowed Francesca finds love with her late husband's male cousin, Michael Stirling. The series has gender-swapped the character to Michaela Stirling, played by Masali Baduza, setting the stage for Francesca's (Hannah Dodd) exploration of her sexuality.
A Focus on 'Queer Joy'
Brownell emphasized that the season's narrative will be celebratory in nature. "This will be a season centered on queer joy," she stated, clarifying that the story would avoid common tropes of queer trauma. "There will be difficulties for the characters and conflicts, as with every Bridgerton character. But our love stories will always remain anchored in the fact that this series is about joy."
She added that dedicating an entire season to a lesbian relationship is a significant moment for the show. "It's a huge milestone," Brownell said. "We want to give people the chance to see themselves represented, to dream and to imagine themselves in these fantastic roles. It didn't seem right not to include queer love in this fantasy."
The writers' room has reportedly been exploring themes specific to the experience of women who love women. "We've had a lot of fun... talking about what is truly specific about relationships between women," Brownell explained, mentioning the familiar uncertainty of navigating a potential romance with a female friend. "That moment when you think, 'Oh my God, are we just friends? Or is there something more?' You know, the gay panic. We're having a lot of fun with that theme this season!"
Addressing Homophobic Backlash
Since the reveal of Michaela's character, the show's creators and cast have faced homophobic and racist criticism online. Brownell addressed this directly, reinforcing the show's inclusive ethos.
"I want to state clearly that there is no place for homophobia, racism, or any form of intolerance in the world of Bridgerton," she affirmed. "Bridgerton is about love and inclusivity. Masali, Hannah, and the entire cast and crew deserve only positivity and love."
Music and Representation
The show's signature orchestral covers of modern pop songs will also reflect the season's theme. Brownell revealed that the music selection for Season 5 will intentionally feature songs by openly queer artists. "Having queer artists as the soundtrack to a queer love story will be a really exciting feature of this season," she noted.
While a release date has not been finalized, the fifth season of Bridgerton is anticipated to arrive on Netflix in 2026 or 2027.
