Bridgerton series three: Part two is OUT NOW
All eyes are on Penelope and Colin 👀
The wait is finally over for Bridgerton fans, who have been eagerly awaiting the return of the much loved Netflix series. With the third season landing in two parts, we can now sink our teeth into all episodes of series three - and with part one showing the beginnings of Penelope and Colin's romantic relationship, it's fair to say we cannot WAIT to get straight to binge watching.
Part one of Bridgerton season three dropped on Netflix on 16th May, giving us four instalments of one-hour episodes to enjoy - including, of course, the incredible new soundtrack of instrumental covers. After (rightly so) binging all of the first four episodes, fans can now watch the final eps, which landed on 13th June.
It's been quite the wait for the third season of Bridgerton, with Netflix using plenty of tactics to up the excitement in the lead-up to its release - including tantalising first look images and stunning trailers. In early April 2024, the official trailer for the new season landed, and it's fair to say it did not disappoint.
Opening with Julie Andrews' iconic voice, we heard: "Dearest gentle reader, we have been apart for far too long," continuing: "At last, London's fashionable set has made its return", whilst offering a glimpse of show favourites such as Anthony Bridgerton, Kate Sharma and Queen Charlotte - and, of course, Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton.
WATCH: Bridgerton season three official trailer:
Sharing the clip on their social media channels, of course fans flocked to the comments to share in the excitement. One wrote: 'i am so obsessed with this. bridgerton just keeps getting better and better. what a stunning season it will be' (sic), with another adding: 'I’ve watched this like five times omg 💕💕 people are gonna hate me when it finally comes out. It’s all I’m gonna talk about omg'. (sic)
What happened in season three?
Warning, spoilers ahead...
Prior to the seasons release, the official trailer teased that we would be following Penelope Featherington's journey to find a husband. Penelope, played by Nicola Coughlan, is keen to move out of her home, although she despite taking on a whole new wardrobe, struggles to stand out from the other girls.
After returning from his travels, Colin seeks to rebuild his relationship with Penelope, after her overhearing him making some rather unfavourable remarks about her. Repairing their friendship, Colin begins to help Penelope with her quest to find a husband - with the pair soon forced to address their true feelings for each other.
But, of course, things in the land of Bridgerton aren't that straightforward - and with Penelope's big secret (you know, being THE Lady Whistledown) starting to unravel, things get complicated.
After a rather saucy carriage scene between Penelope and Colin, he quickly proposes to her and it looks like things are full steam ahead with their lives together - however, knowing the truth about her gossiping alter-ego, ex-BFF, and sister to Colin, Eloise presents Penelope with an ultimatum... 'You tell him, or I do'.
Following a series of dramatic twists and turns, including Cressida Cowper posing as Lady Whistledown in a desperate attempt to avoid being sent away by her parents, Colin ends up finding out Penelope's secret after following her out of town. Of course, the lies and deceit, mixed with Colin's burning hate for Lady Whistledown, make things pretty uncomfortable for the pair, who go ahead with the wedding to keep up appearances.
With all of the drama going on, including Queen Charlotte outing Penelope at a ball, the season comes to a dramatic close when we find out that she is pregnant with Colin's baby.
When was the third season of Bridgerton be released?
Netflix revealed on 12th December 2023 that the third instalment of Bridgerton would be released in two parts. Part one landed on 16th May 2024, with part two arriving a month later on 13th June.
Are there more trailers for Bridgerton series three?
After a selection of first look images were released, bosses dropped a teaser trailer on 1st February, before releasing another clip on Valentine's Day (14th February).
The official trailer was then released on 11th April 2024.
Watch the first teaser trailer below:
On Wednesday 20th March, another trailer was released titled 'Bridgerton Season 3 Kanthony Sneak Peak', with the caption: 'As one can see, life after marriage has not dimmed the flames that burn between these two in the slightest'. (sic)
Series three episode titles
Netflix gifted us with the episode titles the same day the sneak peek dropped - and it's fair to say they got the excitement building!
The titles are as follows:
Part one:
1) Out of the Shadows
2) How Bright the Moon
3) Forces of Nature
4) Old Friends
Part two:
5) Tick Tock
6) Romancing Mister Bridgerton
7) Joining of Hands
8) Into the Light
Bridgerton season three: First look images
In June 2023, Netflix released the first round of first look images at the third season of Bridgerton. Then, in February 2024, we were gifted with a new wave of sneak peek photos to get us all excited! Check them all out below...
Bridgerton series three
Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) and Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton).
Bridgerton series three
Penelope Featherington.
Bridgerton series three
Colin Bridgerton.
Bridgerton series three
Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton.
Bridgerton series three
Bridgerton series three
Bridgerton series three
Bridgerton series three
Bridgerton series three
Bridgerton series three
Bridgerton series three
As fans of the show will know, Penelope had spent a long time pining for Colin, even using her power as Lady Whistledown to ruin his potential marriage to Marina (Ruby Barker). Prior to the release of part one, actress Nicola Coughlan hinted at what fans could expect to see from the latest series.
When asked by Variety if series three would be super steamy or more of a slow burner, she said: "Because we've had two seasons of build-up, it's probably going to be the former."
Simone Ashley teases Bridgerton season three
In an interview with ELLE, actress Simone Ashley, who plays Kate Sharma in the popular show, revealed that season three of Bridgerton would contain plenty of passionate scenes. She said: "I just think it is going to be hotter than ever."
Although Ashley couldn't reveal too much about the third series at the time, she did share that she thinks that viewers will see a different side to her character Kate. She explained: "I think you're going to see a much softer side coming this season.
"We'll likely be able to see that 'softness' in Kate's wardrobe, and in her marriage to Anthony Bridgerton. She's going to be quite content with her husband."
Is Phoebe Dynevor in it?
After both Netflix and Shondaland confirmed filming was underway for series three back in July 2022, actress Phoebe Dynevor, who plays Daphne, hinted she may have followed in the footsteps of co-star Regé-Jean Page, by leaving the show.
When ScreenRant asked: "Is there any exciting dynamics coming up for Daphne in Bridgerton season 3?", Phoebe responded by saying: "Sadly not in season 3. Potentially in the future.
"But season 3, I’m just excited to watch as a viewer."
Phoebe did not feature in any episodes of Bridgerton season three.
As fans will know, series two saw Phoebe's character taking more of a background role, following her storyline alongside Regé-Jean in series one.
Whilst series two predominantly followed the love story of Viscount Anthony Bridgerton (Jonathan Bailey) and Kate Sharma (Simone Ashley), series three focused on Colin Bridgerton’s (Luke Newton) romance with Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan).
When was it filmed?
Bridgerton fans were pleased to hear that filming for the third series was underway in July 2022. The news was shared by Netflix and Shondaland on social media at the time.
A video compilation with clips from behind the scenes was shared on the official Bridgerton account, showing the cast members all holding up three fingers to symbolise the third series! In true Bridgerton tone of voice, they posted the video with the caption: 'I spy the makings of a new social season. By the looks of things, it would seem the third installment of Bridgerton is officially underway.'
At the end of the video, Nicola Coughlan can be seen in a carriage, confirming the news as she says: 'Bridgerton season three filming has officially begun'.
Are there new characters?
There sure are! As well as the return of numerous fan-favourites, this season will also introduce new cast members including Daniel Francis as Marcus Anderson, Sam Phillips as Lord Debling, and James Phoon as Harry Dankworth.
A synopsis of the third series was also shared, and it reads: 'Bridgerton is back for its third season and finds Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) has finally given up on her long-held crush on Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) after hearing his disparaging words about her last season. She has, however, decided it’s time to take a husband, preferably one who will provide her with enough independence to continue her double life as Lady Whistledown, far away from her mother and sisters.
'But lacking in confidence, Penelope’s attempts on the marriage mart fail spectacularly. Meanwhile, Colin has returned from his summer travels with a new look and a serious sense of swagger. But he’s disheartened to realize that Penelope, the one person who always appreciated him as he was, is giving him the cold shoulder.
'Eager to win back her friendship, Colin offers to mentor Penelope in the ways of confidence to help her find a husband this season. But when his lessons start working a little too well, Colin must grapple with whether his feelings for Penelope are truly just friendly. Complicating matters for Penelope is her rift with Eloise (Claudia Jessie), who has found a new friend in a very unlikely place, while Penelope’s growing presence in the ton makes it all the more difficult to keep her Lady Whistledown alter ego a secret.'
Given THAT ending to season two (we're looking at you, Colin), fans are eager to see how the pair's relationship pans out in the brand new third season of Bridgerton. With Colin yet to find out Penelope's secret identity of the infamous Lady Whistledown, this should be interesting...
As some fans may already know, Netflix's Bridgerton series is based off a series of books written by Julia Quinn, with each book focusing on a separate Bridgerton family member at a time. So far, we have seen season one focus on Daphne, and season two spotlight Anthony.
Fans of the book series will know, the third instalment details Benedict Bridgerton's love story with new character named Sophie Beckett. Despite this, the third season of the Netflix series will instead be focusing on brother Colin, and well-known character Penelope.
Check out these Bridgerton facts you may not have known:
The show is adapted from Julia Quinn's novels
Like many successful TV series and films, Netflix's Bridgerton was actually adapted from a book series! The books were written by Julia Quinn, with each one focusing on a different member of the Bridgerton family, and have so far followed the same order - The Duke and I (season one) and The Viscount Who Love Me (season two).
There are a total of nine books in the series.
Queen Charlotte wasn't included in the original books
Although Queen Charlotte was a real-life monarch, she wasn't actually featured in the original Julia Quinn books. Julia seems to stick by her decision, however, saying: "Queen Charlotte is the biggest new character and she's fantastic in every way. I go back and forth between 'Wow, I wish I'd put her in the books', and 'I'm glad I didn't put her in the books because I wouldn't have done her as great as they do her here."
The Queen of England once interrupted Bridgerton filming
Yep, it's true! Bridgerton's creator revealed that the iconic scene that showed The Duke and Daphne plead their case to Queen Charlotte was put under a some-what time constraint when being filmed at Lancaster House in London, with the real Queen - yes, Queen Elizabeth - needing the space to host an event!
Bridgerton is not entirely historically accurate
Despite many aspects of Bridgerton being historically accurate, for example Queen Charlotte being involved in social happenings, not all of the show is as spot on.
The show had cultural experts on hand during production, however Julia Quinn explained the importance of the show taking a different approach, aiming for a diverse reimagining of London's high society. She explained: "It's important to remember that 'Bridgerton' isn't a history lesson. The show is for a modern audience."
Coronation Street's Sally Dynevor is Phoebe Dynevor's mum
Oh, to be a Dynevor! Acting clearly runs in the family, with Sally Dynevor being Phoebe's mum in real life! Sally is most known for her role as Sally Webster in popular soap Coronation Street - and she even competed on Dancing On Ice in the 2022 series!
Prior to Bridgerton, Phoebe Dynevor starred in TV series Snatch alongside Rupert Grint
Before becoming a household name for her role as Daphne Bridgerton, Phoebe Dynevor appeared as Lotti Mott in the 2017 TV series Snatch - a series adaptation of the film of the same name.
Phoebe starred alongisde other huge names such as Harry Potter's Rupert Grint, Emily in Paris' Lucien Laviscount and Skins' Luke Pasqualino.
Julie Andrews voices Lady Whistledown
The legend that is Julie Andrews voices the iconic script of Lady Whistledown in the Bridgerton. The iconic English actress narrates the mysterious gossip writer throughout the series, with her voice being heard in both series one and two.
Bridgerton was not strictly filmed in London
Although Bridgerton is set in Regency London, it was not strictly filmed within the famous streets. Filming locations for the series were scattered around the UK, with the cast and crew heading to Hertfordshire, Yorkshire, Hampshire, Kent, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Surrey, with most of the filming actually taking place in Bath.
Although we hate to ruin the magic of travelling back to the 1800s, many of the show's sets were actually created from CGI. Take a look through the real-life Bridgerton filming locations that you can visit in person!
Bridgerton and The Crown share filming locations
To those of you that thought some of the sets look a little familiar, you may not be that surprised to hear that Bridgerton shared multiple filming locations with popular series The Crown.
Interior shots for both the Duke and Duchess's home and Queen Charlotte's home were filmed at Wilton House, a gorgeous Wiltshire-based estate that was also used for interior shots of Buckingham Palace in The Crown.
The Duke of Hastings' home was filmed in various locations
The Duke of Hastings' home is pretty massive, so it's no surprise that multiple filming locations were used to get that perfect representation! Four different filming locations were used in total, these being Wilton House in Wiltshire, Syon House in Brentford, Castle Howard in York and Badminton House in Gloucestershire.
Wilton House served as the portrait hall, hallway, dining room and entrance hall, while Syon House provided the study and dressing room, and Badminton House being the parlour and mornings rooms. Castle Howard was used for exterior shots that fans will recognise of The Duke's home.
Princess Diana's family home was the inspiration behind the Bridgerton House
There's no denying that all of the luxurious family homes featured in Bridgerton are pretty enviable. Show producer Chris Van Dusen revealed on Twitter that it was in fact Princess Diana's family home that inspired Bridgerton House, writing: 'The interior of Bridgerton House was inspired by my visit to Althorp when I was developing the show. Elegance. Opulence. And that #staircase'.
Bridgerton's tea shop actually existed in the 19th century
Anyone for a cuppa? Yep, the tea shop that Daphne and The Duke frequent was in fact real - located in London's Berkley Square in the 19th century!
Although, it was originally a confectionary store in real life. The shop was originally named the Pot and Pine Apple, but changed its name to Gunter's Tea Shop.
Pride and Prejudice provided inspiration for some of the racier scenes
Bridgerton is no stranger to a saucy scene, with the show taking inspiration for some of the more racy scenes from none other than the legendary Pride and Prejudice.
One particular shot that drew inspiration from the 1995 BBC TV adaptation of Jane Austen's novel is Anthony Bridgerton's wet shirt scene, featured in season two. Producer Chris Van Dusen joked: "Obviously, Colin Firth coming out of that lake with the white shirt is seared in my mind."
The racier scenes were filmed with an intimacy director on hand
With the show being packed with some pretty racy scenes, it's no surprise that filming took place under the watchful eye of an intimacy director.
Regé-Jean Page, who stars as The Duke of Hastings, described the intimacy co-ordinator as taking the 'risk' out of the more, shall we say, 'sexy' scenes.
Many of the classic Bridgerton hairstyles were based on real celebrities
Bridgerton drew inspiration from several places, spanning over various decades! Season one's hair and makeup artist Marc Pilcher told Insider that Audrey Hepburn's hair in 1956 film War and Peace inspired Daphne Bridgerton's curled bangs.
Other hair inspo for characters such as Queen Charlotte and Lady Featherington came from other iconic looks such as Beyoncé's hair in 2002's Austin Powers and a red-headed Elizabeth Taylor.
7,500 bespoke outfits were made for season one alone
Quite the wardrobe! Season two costume designer Sophie Canale revealed that having about 7,500 bespoke outfits from season one helped them create looks for season two, building on the style of all of the women's and crowd costumes.
Producer Chris Van Dusen came up with the idea of modern-day pop songs instrumental covers
The show became an instant hit for a multitude of reasons, with the incredible soundtrack being one of them! As fans will know, the show regularly features modern pop-songs with a Bridgerton make-over - the idea for which came from producer Chris Van Dusen.
Chris had the idea to blend the genres of modern music with orchestral stylings. The series' music supervisor said: "The familiarity of these pop songs performed by a quartet or orchestral seemed the most seamless way to create a 'Bridgerton' musical signature and also support Bowers' beautiful score."
Lady Whistledown's identity wasn't always set on Penelope Featherington
Imagine how differently the show could have turned out if the bright Penelope Featherington wasn't in fact Lady Whistledown! Despite Penelope being revealed as Lady Whistledown in the books, the true identity of the infamous gossip writer for the Netflix adaptation wasn't actually always set in stone.
Characters such as Daphne and Eloise Bridgerton were in the running, as well as Lady Danbury and Brimsley also being contenders.
All actors were fitted with earpieces while dancing
Dancing scenes were made that little bit tricker when cast were required to wear earpieces during filming. Luke Newton, known for playing Colin Bridgerton, touched on the matter, saying: "Hats off to the dancers because they do it every take, and they do it perfectly, and then I step in, and I feel like I've got two left feet because I can not hear the music. I hear everyone else talking!"
Nicola Coughlan originally auditioned for Eloise Bridgerton
After being contacted about auditioning for the show, Nicola originally read for the role of Eloise Bridgerton. it was show producer Chris Van Dusen that actually noticed that she was perfect for the role of the youngest Featherington sister, saying: "I called all of our other producers into the room and showed them the tape. I'm happy to say that everyone loved her as much as I did."
Nicola later described that she drew inspiration for her portrayal of the character from fans of the book series, saying: "I spent a lot of time lurking on online book forums to see what fans thought. I realized that Penelope is this really beloved character, because she's not this perfect girl that all the boys love."
Bridgerton season three is available to stream on Netflix now, as well as seasons one and two.
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