Netflix has confirmed the highly anticipated return of its lavish period drama, with Bridgerton Season 4 set to premiere in two parts this winter. The new season shifts focus to Benedict Bridgerton, portrayed by Luke Thompson, and his romantic pursuit of a mysterious woman, offering a fresh 'Cinderella' narrative for the hit series.
Bridgerton Season 4 Release Schedule and Episode Count
In a move that will test the patience of eager fans, Netflix has decided to split the fourth season into two separate instalments. The first part of four episodes will debut globally on January 29. Subscribers will then face a month-long wait for the concluding chapters, with the second part arriving on February 26.
This release strategy mirrors approaches taken for other major Netflix hits. UK viewers can expect new episodes to drop at 8am GMT, following the platform's typical schedule. Ahead of the launch, a special live stream event via Netflix's Tudum is planned for January 14, featuring an early screening of the premiere episode and coverage from the global premiere event in Paris.
The Central Romance: Benedict's Story and New Cast Additions
Season four draws its inspiration from Julia Quinn's novel, An Offer From a Gentleman, which reimagines the Cinderella fairy tale. The story follows Benedict Bridgerton, the family's second son, who has thus far resisted his mother Lady Violet's pleas to settle down.
His resolve crumbles at a masquerade ball where he becomes enchanted by a mysterious 'Lady in Silver'. Unbeknownst to him, the object of his affection is Sophie, played by Yerin Ha, a resourceful maid employed by the formidable Araminta Gun. Katie Leung takes on the role of Lady Gun, a twice-widowed mother determined to secure matches for her daughters.
Benedict, enlisting his sister Eloise's help to find the masked lady, later encounters Sophie but fails to connect her to his fantasy. The official synopsis poses the central conflict: "Will Benedict's inability to see these women as one and the same derail the undeniable spark between him and Sophie?"
Returning Favourites and Trailer Reaction
The core Bridgerton family cast will return, including Jonathan Bailey as Anthony and Simone Ashley as Kate Bridgerton, alongside Adjoa Andoh as Lady Danbury. Notably, Emma Naomi (Alice Mondrich) and Hugh Sachs (Brimsley) have been promoted to series regulars for this season.
The season's trailer, released over Christmas, sparked some fan debate for its scant focus on the now-married couple Anthony and Kate, with some viewers expressing surprise at their limited presence. The preview did highlight new plot threads, including Penelope Featherington's alliance with Queen Charlotte following the exposure of her secret identity as Lady Whistledown.
It also showcased the classic Cinderella moment of Sophie's midnight flight from the ball and delved into the strained dynamic between Benedict and his mother as he balances her expectations with his own desires.
With a total of eight episodes, Bridgerton Season 4, Part 1 premieres on Netflix on January 29, followed by Part 2 on February 26.
