Netflix and Shondaland they have confirmed it Bridgerton entered production for its fifth season, with a new central story to focus on Francesca Sterling and Michaela Sterling. Hannah Dodd and Masali Baduza take the lead roles, leading the series into a chapter that follows a second-chance love story shaped by loss, connection and unresolved emotions. Production is currently underway out of London.
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Hannah Dodd recalls approaching the series not knowing which character she would be playing, drawn in by the material itself. Now, she returns as Francesca, taking a lead role alongside Baduza. Both actors expressed excitement about the shift, with Dodd describing a mixture of anticipation and nerves, while Baduza responded with confidence as filming began.
Showrunner Jess Brownell emphasized the dynamic between the two leads, showing their off-screen connection and their ability to convey emotion through subtle expression. He described the upcoming season as driven by intense longing, placing Francesca and Michaela at the center of a story based on emotional tension and connection.
The narrative picks up from the events of Season 4, where Francesca struggles with the death of her husband, Lord John Stirling. As his widow, she is in a moment of transition, asking Michaela, John’s cousin, to stay with her in Mayfair. Their shared understanding of grief creates a connection that develops further as the story progresses.
However, the relationship remains unresolved at his end Season 4. Michaela leaves London, unable to cope with the emotional weight of the situation. Baduza explains this decision as a response to overwhelming emotions, describing Michaela as someone who avoids confrontation and seeks distance when faced with tension. Her departure sets the stage for a new meeting in Season 5.
The new season picks up two years after John’s death, when Francesca considers returning to the marriage market for practical reasons. Michaela’s return to London, linked with responsibilities connected to the Kilmartin estate, reopens their connection. This reunion introduces a change, as both characters face emotions that complicate their previous understanding.
Dodd looks forward to exploring Francesca’s evolution, focusing on her ability to reengage with love after loss. She describes her character as someone who strives to do things right, even when circumstances disrupt those efforts. Baduza, in turn, points to Michaela’s guarded nature, shaped by the need to hide parts of herself. She approaches the role as an opportunity to reveal vulnerability and allow the character to open up.
Season 5 will introduce the show’s first central same-sex romance, expanding the narrative scope of the Regency-era setting. Dodd notes that such stories are often absent from period dramas, despite their historical presence. Both actors expressed a shared focus on presenting a relationship that reflects emotional truth and connection.
The story will be drawn from Julia Quinnhis novel When he was badwhich includes a setting in the Scottish Highlands. While details remain limited, both actors have expressed interest in seeing this location make it into the series. Season 5 of Bridgerton will continue to build on its established structure while introducing a new chapter centered around Francesca and Michaela.
