Exciting news for fans of the Bridgerton series! Netflix has officially announced that the focus of the upcoming fourth season will be on the charming Benedict Bridgerton, portrayed by Luke Thompson. Alongside him is Yerin Ha, stepping into the role of his love interest, Sophie Baek. This captivating new chapter in the Regency era saga promises to bring fresh storytelling and romance when it premieres in 2026, as confirmed by Netflix on May 14.
The evolution of the Bridgerton family dynamics
In a recent announcement, Netflix revealed that not only is season four confirmed, but seasons five and six have also been greenlit. This means that audiences will get to witness the romantic escapades of the remaining single Bridgerton siblings, further expanding the universe created by author Julia Quinn.
Meet Benedict and Sophie
Earlier in the year, during Netflix’s “Season of Love” fan event held in London, both Thompson and Ha participated in discussions alongside showrunner Jess Brownell. During this event, they unveiled the first teaser footage from the fourth season, offering fans a glimpse of the enchanting masquerade ball where Benedict first encounters Sophie.
The official synopsis describes the season’s plot: “The fourth season of Bridgerton centers on bohemian second son Benedict Bridgerton. Although both of his brothers are happily married, Benedict is hesitant to commit—until he meets the captivating Lady in Silver at his mother’s extravagant masquerade.” This setting is a pivotal moment as it leads to the blossoming romance between the two characters.
Character backgrounds and insights
Netflix’s teaser video, released on July 23, solidified Benedict’s role as the newest suitor in the series. It features a scene where Thompson’s character is seen preparing for the masquerade, which is significant in his journey to find love. Ha’s character, Sophie Baek, has a compelling backstory; she has spent years working as a maid under challenging conditions, shaped by the demands of society. Her resourcefulness is highlighted as she disguises herself to attend the ball, setting the stage for her meeting with Benedict.
Representation and character development
Yerin Ha expressed her appreciation for being able to portray a character with a Korean surname, a change made from the original book to Sophie Baek. She noted, “To see my character’s name reflect my identity is incredibly empowering.” This adjustment adds a layer of authenticity and representation to the character, allowing more viewers to connect with Sophie.
As the narrative unfolds, showrunner Brownell has hinted at exploring themes of love and identity. Benedict’s character is noted for his ability to love various kinds of people, but his fear of commitment is central to his story arc. Brownell mentioned that Benedict’s journey involves understanding his own emotions and the potential loneliness that can arise from his reluctance to deepen his connections.
Returning characters and new additions
Alongside the new leads, fans can expect to see familiar faces return, including Nicola Coughlan as Penelope and Luke Newton as Colin. The cast also welcomes new characters, such as Katie Leung, known for her role as Cho Chang in the Harry Potter series, who will portray Lady Araminta Gun—a determined matriarch with societal ambitions.
Leung’s character, as described by Netflix, is “fabulous, discerning, and blunt,” suggesting a formidable presence in the marriage market. Accompanying her are her two daughters, Rosamund and Posy Li, who will contribute to the season’s tensions and romantic pursuits.
Brownell has teased that this season will delve deeper into the relationships within the Bridgerton family, particularly the evolving dynamics among the siblings. There are hints that Penelope’s reveal as Lady Whistledown will continue to have repercussions as she navigates her newfound identity and its impact on her relationships.
As anticipation builds for season four, audiences can look forward to the intricate storytelling that has characterized the Bridgerton series, paired with fresh perspectives on love and identity. It promises to be another enthralling installment in this beloved saga.