Netflix has announced that the platform is expanding the ‘Bridgerton’ horizons with an additional limited series focusing on the origins and love life of Queen Charlotte (Golda Rosheuvel).
The prequel, written by Shonda Rhimes, will also feature matriarch Violet Bridgerton (Ruth Gemmell) and noblewoman Lady Danbury (Adjoa Andoh) in their youth.
The announcement has created a stir amongst the ‘Bridgerton’ fans who are both excited and curious about unravelling the drama that rolls out in this limited series.
‘Bridgerton’ Series, an adaptation of Julia Quinn’s popular book series of the same name by Rhimes, became an instant hit when it premiered on the platform during 2020 holiday season on Christmas day. It captured the imagination of 82 million households in its first 28 days securing 5th place for being most-watched series on Netflix.
The series dominated conversations on its sensational scandals, intense romance, witty dialogues, endearing cast, extravagant costumes and bright and vibrant setting of 1813 Regency London.
The success of the series ensured that the platform announced its renewal for another season within a month of its debut. ‘Bridgerton’ Season 2 will follow the life and fortunes of Anthony Bridgerton (Jonathan Bailey), the eldest son of the Bridgerton family.
Besides Simon Basset, Duke of Hastings (Rege-Jean Page) and Daphne (Phoebe Dynevor), the bonafide tastemaker of London high society and gossip-loving Queen Charlotte emerges as a strong character in Shondaland’s ‘Bridgerton’ Season 1.
The hard-to-impress monarch is inspired by a real monarch of the Regency Era from 1761 to 1818. Her character wasn’t there in Quinn’s original book series and was added by the executive producer and showrunner Chris Van Dusen.
Known for her quirky wigs, opulent gowns and regal demeanour, her impressions have the power to influence the destinies of many young women looking for romance, adventure and love in the 19th century marriage scene.
The prequel will have Betsy Beers and Tom Verica as its executive producers, beside Rhimes.
According to Bela Bajaria, Netflix Global TV head, Rhimes and her team are thoughtfully developing the ‘Bridgerton’ universe to fulfil viewers’ expectations and keep them hooked.
With few scenes in season 1 hinting at her happy life before her husband King George III became mentally deranged, how Queen Charlott moves through those lavish ballrooms of Mayfair and aristocratic palaces of Park Lane in her youth and comes to be will give more insight into her character.
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