Netflix is betting big on Bridgerton. The lavish period drama, created by Chris Van Dusen, produced by Shonda Rhimes and adapted from Julia Quinn’s popular novels, has been greenlit for both a third and a fourth season, the series revealed on its Instagram and Twitter accounts Tuesday. The announcement arrives while work on season 2 is still underway.
In keeping with Bridgerton’s signature style, Lady Whistledown, voiced in the show by Julie Andrews, broke the news in a handwritten missive. “Esteemed members of the Ton, it seems we have a rather special announcement. Bridgerton shall return for seasons three and four.”
In Netflix’s official release about the renewal, Shondaland boss Shonda Rhimes, 51, reflected on why the books translated so well to television.
“From the first time I read Julia Quinn’s delicious Bridgerton series, I knew these were stories that would captivate a viewing audience. But the evolution of this adaptation would not be a success without the many significant contributions of the entire Shondaland team.”
Rhimes added, “This two-season pickup is a strong vote of confidence in our work and I feel incredibly grateful to have partners as collaborative and creative as Netflix. Betsy and I are thrilled to have the opportunity to continue bringing the world of Bridgerton to a worldwide audience.”
Since its debut last December, Bridgerton has been a breakout hit for Netflix. Season 1 followed Phoebe Dynevor’s Daphne Bridgerton as she and Regé-Jean Page’s Simon Hastings, the Duke of Hastings, agree to a staged courtship that benefits them both.
Fans were surprised earlier this month when it was revealed that breakout star Page, 31, would not be returning for season 2.
“While all eyes turn to Lord Anthony Bridgerton’s quest to find a Viscountess, we bid adieu to Regé-Jean Page, who so triumphantly played the Duke of Hastings,” read a Lady Whistledown note the show shared on social media at the time. “We’ll miss Simon’s presence onscreen, but he will always be a part of the Bridgerton family.”
“It’s been an absolute pleasure and a privilege to be your Duke. Joining this family, not just on screen, but off screen too. Our incredibly creative and generous cast, crew, outstanding fans, it’s all been beyond anything I could have imagined,” he wrote, captioning a photo of himself on horseback from the set. “The love is real and will just keep growing.”
Netflix had previously renewed Bridgerton for a second season in January. Season 2 will center on Lord Anthony Bridgerton, portrayed by Jonathan Bailey, as he searches for a wife, with Simone Ashley set to play his romantic interest, Kate Sharma.