Netflix has released tantalising new details about the highly anticipated fourth season of its hit period drama, Bridgerton, promising a significant twist for the formidable Queen Charlotte and a central romance for Benedict Bridgerton.
A Royal Scandal Brews
In a newly released still, Queen Charlotte, played by Golda Rosheuvel, is seen looking deeply concerned while reading a mysterious piece of correspondence. Her trusted confidant, Brimsley (Hugh Sachs), watches on with evident curiosity. While the contents of the letter remain secret, speculation is rife that it contains fresh gossip from the now-unmasked Lady Whistledown, setting the stage for a direct clash between the Queen and the ton's most notorious scribe.
Actress Nicola Coughlan, who plays Penelope Featherington (aka Lady Whistledown), hinted at this entanglement in an interview with Tudum. She revealed that Penelope's world is "turned upside down" as she grapples with the fame and consequences of her secret identity, not least the increased scrutiny from the monarch herself.
Benedict's Forbidden Love Story Takes Centre Stage
The new season will finally focus on the second eldest Bridgerton son, Benedict (Luke Thompson). His story begins at a lavish masquerade ball hosted by his mother, Lady Violet (Ruth Gemmell), where he is captivated by a mysterious 'Lady in Silver'. The object of his affection is revealed to be Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha), a humble maid working for a new family in the ton, setting up a classic romance fraught with class divisions.
Showrunner Jess Brownell teased Benedict's journey, noting his free-spirited nature is both genuine and a protective "crutch." This season will explore what happens when he begins to lower his defences and let people into his life, particularly through this socially complicated relationship.
Release Schedule and How to Watch
Bridgerton Season 4 will be released in two parts. The first instalment, consisting of four episodes, premieres on Thursday, 29th January 2026. The second part will follow a month later on Thursday, 26th February 2026, exclusively on Netflix.
For UK viewers, Sky is currently offering a free Netflix subscription with its Sky Stream TV bundles, including the Essential TV plan from £15 per month, providing a way to watch the series and other content without a satellite dish.
Fans can expect the usual blend of lavish costumes, simmering romance, and high-society intrigue, now amplified by a potential royal crisis and a love story that defies the strict social order of the ton.
