Netflix has unveiled a tantalising new sneak peek for the highly anticipated fourth season of its period drama phenomenon, Bridgerton. The trailer confirms that the upcoming series will focus on Benedict Bridgerton's romantic journey, drawing clear inspiration from the classic Cinderella fairy tale.
A Bohemian Viscount's Son Meets His Mystery Maid
The two-and-a-half-minute teaser, released on Friday 26 December 2025, introduces the central love story. Luke Thompson's Benedict, previously shown as reluctant to settle down, has his worldview transformed after a fateful encounter at a masquerade ball hosted by his mother, Violet Bridgerton (Ruth Gemmell). At the event, he meets and dances with a captivating woman in a silver empire gown, played by Australian actress Yerin Ha as Sophie Baek.
Unbeknownst to Benedict, Sophie is actually a maid who has disguised herself to attend the high-society gathering. After a magical connection, where Benedict tells her she is "the most intriguing person" he's ever met, the clock strikes midnight. Sophie flees, leaving behind a single glove. The trailer then follows Benedict's determined quest to find the owner of the glove, while Sophie voices her despair, stating: "He does not want to find me, he wants to find the lady in the silver gown, and she is not real."
Returning Favourites and Narrative Structure
The series will continue to be narrated by Dame Julie Andrews as the voice of the gossip columnist Lady Whistledown. The trailer opens with Queen Charlotte demanding "great gossip" from Penelope Bridgerton (Nicola Coughlan), who is secretly the writer. The show will feature a host of returning cast members, including Jonathan Bailey as Anthony, Simone Ashley as Kate, Claudia Jessie as Eloise, Luke Newton as Colin, and Adjoa Andoh as Lady Danbury.
The latest series of Bridgerton will be released in two distinct parts, each comprising four episodes. Part one is scheduled to arrive on 29 January 2026, with part two following on 26 February 2026. This split release strategy mirrors the approach taken for the show's third season, which focused on the romance between Penelope and Colin and earned a BAFTA nomination for its iconic carriage scene.
Setting the Scene for a New Chapter
This Cinderella-inspired narrative marks a significant shift for Benedict's character and continues the show's tradition of adapting Julia Quinn's beloved book series. Season one centred on Daphne and Simon's marriage, while season two followed Anthony and Kate's love story. The upcoming season promises to deliver the same blend of lavish costumes, simmering tension, and societal intrigue that has made the series a global streaming hit, all while weaving a classic fairy tale into the fabric of Regency London.
