Whether you prefer to binge watch or take your time with each new season of Bridgerton, fans are already wanting more with many asking will there be a season 3?

As the cast reunite on screens fans are wondering will Rege-Jean Page return as the Duke who left before season 2 started, and there are some new Bridgerton castmates to fall in love with as viewers find out more about Lady Whistledown following the revelation of her identity. 

As the spin-off show, Queen Charlotte, is released - with viewers wanting to know more details such as where it is filmed an what illness King George has - viewers are thinking back to Bridgerton. With the latest series focused on the story of Anthony Bridgerton (Jonathan Bailey) and his quest to find a suitable wife, we look at if, like the books, there will be more stories to come...

Will there be a season 3 of Bridgerton?

Yes, season 3 of Bridgerton was confirmed back in 2021 along with a season 4 so Bridgerton fans will be delighted the show is running for many more episodes yet to come. At the time, Netflix made the announcement via a letter in the style of Lady Whistledown's newsletters, and it confirmed, "Esteemed members of the Ton, It seems we have a rather special announcement. Bridgerton shall return for seasons three and four. This author shall have to purchase more ink..." signed Yours Truly Lady Whistledown.

And fans are keen to know when the series will land.

One tweeted, "Netflix better not take a whole year for season 3 of Bridgerton."

Another viewer added, "I’ve already watched all of Bridgerton season 2 twice, I’m ready for season 3,4,5,6,7,8 anytime you are @netflix @bridgerton I literally can’t get over how incredible everyone was in this season, and I need more Kate and Anthony ASAP!"

And a third supporter chipped in to say, "Just finished @bridgerton season 2. It’s like Gossip Girl with a period twist @netflix how long until season 3?!"

What's will season 3 of Bridgerton be about?

Season 3 of Bridgerton is about Colin and Penelope's love story as the opening lines of the first episode allude to Penelope being a wallflower at social events - keeping out of the limelight, hence the episode aptly named Out of the Shadows. But also the development of Lady Whistledown's identity coming out after Eloise discovered Penelope's secret at the end of season 2.

And more recently, Lady Whistledown's Society Papers published on Facebook confirm the Colin and Penelope focus, it reads, "Dearest Readers, It is only fair that in this author's third year chronicling the marriage mart, Mayfair's social season should find its focus on a third son... as well as a third daughter.

"This author can confirm that the upcoming season shall follow none other than the budding relationship between Mr. Colin Bridgerton and one Miss Penelope Featherington.

"With Penelope's days as a wallflower wearing thin, will she finally take bloom? Time will tell, and as always, so will this author.

"Yours Truly, Lady Whistledown." it concluded.

During a previous video featurette, first teased the relationship focus. Cast members Luke Newton (Colin Bridgerton), Claudia Jessie (Eloise Bridgerton) witness Nicola Coughlan (Penelope Featherington aka Lady Whistledown voiced by Julie Andrews) get her hands on the script for season 301 and read the opening lines to Out of the Shadows which sets up the stage and sums up the developments for season 3...

Dearest gentle reader,

We’ve been apart for far too long. At last, London’s smart set has made its return, and so too has this author. As the season begins, the question on everyone’s mind, of course, is, which newly minted debutante will shine the brightest. The crop this year proves to be rather dazzling indeed. Unfortunately, not every young lady can attract the light.

Written by new Bridgerton showrunner Jess Brownell and directed by Tricia Brock, season 3 finds Penelope has finally given up with her crush on Colin after hearing his harsh words to his friends last season and focuses on finding herself a husband.

But her search doesn't go well, and Colin feels the brunt of her 'cold shoulder' and it pushes him to boost her confidence to attract the perfect husband and win back her friendship. But Penelope succeeds all too well and he is left wondering what his true feelings are.

Meanwhile, in the books, Benedict's love story is the main focus in the third novel, An Offer From a Gentleman, and it was first thought season 3 might be based on this. Fans turned to speculating about what it might be about and it is possible that Bridgerton may continue long enough for all the Bridgerton siblings to have their own love story played out.

Is the Duke coming back to Bridgerton season 3?

The Duke, aka Rege-Jean Page, will not be coming back to Bridgerton season 3, just as he wasn't in season 2 and this is much to fans disappointment. But all the other main cast members will return - including Kate Sharma and Anthony, Viscount Bridgerton. Little Mermaid star Simone Ashley who plays Kate confirmed that her and Jonathan Bailey's characters were “just getting started.

Over the summer Netflix announced that their romantic period drama had begun filming its highly anticipated third season and Jonathan announced via Instagram that Simone Ashley, who plays his wife Kathani "Kate" Bridgerton has officially begun filming.

The image, a simple, close-up shot of their clasped hands captioned "#kanthony reunited" along with a bee emoji sent fans of Kate/Anthony wild.

When is season 3 of Bridgerton coming?

It's likely that season 3 of Bridgerton won't be aired until Summer 2023 at the earliest. Season One dropped on December 25th 2020 and season 2 aired March 2025, so given the time frames between for filming and release, it's not expected for a while.

But many fans can't even cope with thinking about waiting until then for their next Bridgerton fix. One fan tweeted, "I don’t want to wait an entire year for season 3."

The Bridgerton books in order

Bridgerton is based on a series of books by author Julia Quinn who wrote about the Bridgerton family and the books in order are as follows...

1.  The Duke and I - Netlflix series 1 focused on the story of Daphne and Simon.
2.  The Viscount Who Loved Me - Netflix series 2 focussed on Anthony Bridgerton and Kate.
3.  An Offer From A Gentleman - Netflix series 3 is expected to be about Benedict and Sophie.
4. Romancing Mr. Bridgerton - Colin and Penelope could take the lead in the Netflix series.
5. To Sir Phillip, With Love - Eloise and Philip are the focus in the novel.
6. When He Was Wicked - Francesca and Michael feature in book six.
7. It’s In His Kiss - Hyacinth and Gareth are featured in book seven.
8. On The Way to the Wedding - Gregory and Lucy take the lead in the eighth and final book instalment.

If you're looking for another book adaptation show to get into check out Conversations with Friends based on Sally Rooney's book of the same name. Alternatively check out The Essex Serpent, coming to Apple+TV on May 13th.

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Related video

Who is Violet in Queen Charlotte? The character and how she fits into the Bridgerton universe has thrown up a lot of questions - and we are here to answer them.

Fans have been enthralled by the Queen Charlotte Bridgerton spin-off, but they have been left with some questions. Viewers have been desperate to know what illness does King George have in the series, and the answer is pretty complex. For those wondering what happened to Reynolds, a deleted scene revealed what happened to the King's Secretary. The latest question being asked about the show, is who is Violet in Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story? Read on, as we delve into the character and her place in the Bridgerton timeline.  

Did you know that Queen Charlotte is based on a real Queen? She really was thought to be the first Queen of Black ancestry. Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story filmed in some gloriously opulent locations, and we reveal exactly where you can find them in real life. 

Who is Violet in Queen Charlotte?

Violet Bridgerton is the Dowager Viscountess Bridgerton, and wife of Edmund Bridgerton (later deceased). She is the mother of the eight Bridgerton siblings.

Violet married Viscount Edmund Bridgerton, who passed away n 1803. Edmund, along with eldest son Anthony were out hunting at the time. Stopping to pick flowers for Violet, Edmund was stung by a bee and subsequently died, leaving Violet devastated. 

In the first two series of Bridgerton, Violet is an older matriarch, overseeing her young daughters find their place in high society. However, Queen Charlotte sees a younger Violet (still portrayed by the same actress as the earlier Bridgerton series,) deliberating her sexuality in the aftermath of her husband's death. 

Agatha and Violet are at one point in the series seen attending an art exhibition, displaying pictures of naked bodies. Using plentiful and loaded innuendo, Violet manages to convey that she and her deceased husband had a healthy sex life, and expresses her ongoing sexual desire now her husband has passed. Although her need for fulfilment doesn't play out on screen, this is a side to her relationship with Agatha and part of her not explored in Bridgerton when she is older, and apparently only apparently concerned with gossip and match-making.

Violet Bridgerton's backstory prior to marriage is depicted in a small number of flashbacks on the show, portrayed by a younger actress. However, this part of her story mainly serves to bring forth the story of her parents and their own tangled lives, rather than add much depth and clarity to her present day narrative. 

Is Lord Ledger Violet Bridgerton's dad?

Yes, Lord Ledger is Violet Bridgerton's dad, and her mother is Vivian Ledger.

After the death of Agatha Danbury's husband, she and Lord Ledger began an affair. Agatha was not in love with her husband, and their sex life is portrayed on screen as something she endured and not enjoyed. When her husband died, she too with Violet, has a sexual reawakening. She begins taking walks with Violet's father Lord Ledger as friends, but an affair eventually takes place. 

Following Violet's discussions with Agatha about their sexual needs, Agatha opened up a little too much about her own sex life. Violet became suspicious her friend could have had an affair with her father, confirming this after finding one of her father’s birthday crowns in Agatha's possession. Agatha made an attempt to explain her actions, but Violet made it clear she did not want to hear. 

Who was Violet pregnant with when her husband died?

Violet was pregnant with daughter Hyacinth when her husband died. The birth was difficult, with one or both not expected to make it, but Violet and Hyacinth both survived.

For fans who would love to see Violet's story explored as a standalone series, there could be a treat in store. According to Hello, Shonda Rhimes could be considering expanding the Bridgerton world further by giving Violet her own series. Rhimes said that while writing Queen Charlotte, Violet's character became really interesting to her. 

She told Entertainment Weekly that if there was another character whose story would sustain an entire series, it would be Violet. She said "I am obsessed with Violet too. She's very interesting as a character and has a lot of layers to her life that we don't quite know yet. It's also another complicated love story." 

Who plays Violet in Queen Charlotte?

Older Violet is played by Ruth Gemmell, while younger Violet is played by Connie Jenkins-Greig.

Ruth Gemmell is 55-years-old, and has appeared in numerous films, TV shows, and theatre productions. A lot of fans recognize the actress from her appearance as Tracy Beaker's absent mom in Tracy Beaker: The Movie of Me. She portrayed Carly Beaker, the mother of Tracy who lives at a children’s home. Ruth has also appeared in Eastenders, and Penny Dreadful.

Relative newcomer Connie Jenkins-Greig is 19-years-old and has previously appeared in Mr Selfridge and The Take Down. Her Instagram account is packed with behind-the-scenes pictures and videos of Queen Charlotte filming. Sharing pictures of herself and on-screen mom Katie Brayben as Vivian Danbury, she wrote "The best on-set-mum (Also I miss filling our time listening to Jazz music in the trailers.)"

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Video of the Week

The Netflix show has proved to be a huge hit, so it's no surprise that Bridgerton baby names have soared in popularity.

Choosing the perfect name for your child isn't easy, there are so many to pick from and it's hard to decide whether to choose a unique baby name or something more traditional - such as these names that have been popular since the 1920s. 

Many choose to take inspiration from their favourite books and TV shows, which is why it comes as no surprise that Bridgerton baby names are set to be some of the most popular baby names in 2023. Set in London in 1813, the series includes plenty of 19th century inspired names - though some are more historically accurate than others.

Bridgerton baby names for girls

• Daphne
• Violet
• Eloise
• Charlotte
• Penelope
• Hyacinth
• Kate
• Edwina
• Marina
• Philippa
• Prudence
• Mary
• Siena
• Portia
• Rose
• Cressida
• Genevieve
• Alice
• Francesca

Bridgerton baby names for boys

• Anthony
• Colin
• Simon
• Benedict
• Gregory
• Archibald
• Will
• Theo
• Jack
• Henry
• George
• Nigel
• Oliver
• Edmund

What are the Bridgerton children's names?

The eight Bridgerton siblings are called Anthony, Benedict, Colin, Daphne, Eloise, Francesca, Gregory and Hyacinth. Anthony is the oldest - he's 30 in the first season - while youngest sibling Hyacinth is 11.

As you may have noticed, the Bridgerton children are named alphabetically, from oldest to youngest. In the first season of the show, Viscountess Bridgerton explains that she and her late husband decided to name their children in this way because they found it orderly.

What is Daphne and Simon's baby name?

Daphne and Simon's baby is called August - nicknamed Augie. The name is revealed by Daphne in season two, and suggests the Duke and Duchess are sticking to the Bridgerton family tradition of naming their children in alphabetical order.

This differs to the baby names in Julia Quinn's original Bridgerton books, in which Simon and Daphne's first child is called Amelia, followed by two more daughters, Belinda and Caroline, before welcoming two sons, David and Edward.

Where can you watch Bridgerton?

Netflix is the place to watch it, here you can catch up on the first two seasons. Bridgerton is a glossy period drama with a modern twist, it started in late 2020 and was excellent viewing. Rhonda Shimes, the shows producer ensured it was full of scandal, drama, sex, romance, and amazing classical twists on modern songs. It was the TV series that had us all hooked on Lady Whistledown's gossip from start to finish. 

The first series was inspired by Juila Quinn's book - 'The Duke and I' - which is the first of eight so there is plenty of material to see us binge on Bridgerton for quite a while longer. Season 2 is now available and Netflix has already confirmed a season 3 and 4 so far.

Looking for more baby name inspiration? Check out our lists of Disney baby names, royal baby names and flower baby names too.

Video of the Week

The Mother has arrived on Netflix, and JLO has told us to expect action, emotion, and definitely less than perfect mothers. 

Never too far away from a screen near you, Jennifer Lopez is currently starring in Netflix movie The Mother. In the same way that we never find out the name of our hero in Fleabag, JLO's character is mysteriously only known as "The Mother" throughout the entire movie. The star has spoken extensively about what to expect from her latest acting outing, and now our expectations are high. Not wholly unexpectedly due to the title, prepare for an uncomfortable exploration of motherhood, thrown into what is set to be an action packed two hours. Here's what the film is about, and what JLO has to say about it.

Elsewhere on Netflix, Cleopatra's story and origins are given fresh debate in Jada Pinkett Smith's controversial Queen Cleopatra docuseries. The Bridgerton Queen Charlotte spin-off is riding high on the streamer, with viewers asking if Queen Charlotte really is based on a real Queen. Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story filmed in some iconic British locations - how many have you spotted? 

What is the movie The Mother about?

The Mother follows Jennifer Lopez's The Mother, as a former deadly assassin who is forced out of hiding to protect the daughter she gave up as a baby.

Having given birth to a very much wanted baby, The Mother was fresh from being embroiled in a stand-off that had left multiple FBI agents dead, and dangerous criminal out for her blood. Forced to have daughter Zoe adopted for both of their protection, The Mother is told they'd always use her daughter to get to her. Saying goodbye to her baby, she leaves to live a solitary life in the wilderness when her daughter goes to live with a new family.  

Unable to hide from the danger for ever, twelve years later the criminals track Zoe down and her life is in danger. Hearing of her daughter's plight, The Mother comes out of hiding to reunite with her child and save her life. With mother and daughter on the run together, expect an action-filled thriller to follow, with car chases and fight scenes galore. 

Determined to evade the revenge of her pursuers and do whatever it takes to keep herself and her daughter alive, mother and daughter must learn to work together, despite not knowing each other. She might not be the perfect Mom, but The Mother will do whatever it takes to keep her daughter safe. 

What has Jennifer Lopez said about appearing in The Mother?

Jennifer Lopez has said that aside from the action, the main theme of the film is to explore the idea that the perfect mom doesn't exist.

In an interview with Reuters, Lopez said the predominant theme is how "How she [The Mother] would do anything to protect her child. I also think... there's an underlying theme of what it is to be a mother and what the idea of the perfect mom is and how that really doesn't exist."

Lopez, along with Lucy Paez who plays her daughter Zoe, continued to refer to the film as "Powerful," "emotional," and "action packed." Director Niki Caro also weighed in on the motherhood themes, adding the movie is "Badass, because she (the title character) is and mothers are."

Who else is in the cast of The Mother?

Joining Jennifer Lopez in the cast of The Mother are:

• Joseph Fiennes (The Handmaid's Tale, American Horror Story) as Adrian Lovell
• Omari Hardwick (Army of The Dead, Power) as William Cruise
• Gael García Bernal (Mozart in The Jungle, Station Eleven) as Hector Álvarez
• Paul Raci (Goliath, Perry Mason) as Jons
• Lucy Paez (Silencio, The Exorcism of Carmen Farias) as Zoe
• Jesse Garcia (Avengers Assemble) 
• Yvonne Senat Jones (The Bobby Brown Story)

Joseph Fiennes has gone straight from his villainous role as Fred Waterford in The Handmaid's Tale, to playing bad guy Adrian Lovell in The Mother. He spoke to Coming Soon about transforming into a villain for the screen, and what it takes. He said "I think that’s really just down to great filmmakers and camera work and brilliant stunt coordinators and a good bit of makeup - that always helps to amplify the villain."

Speaking warmly of co-star Jennifer Lopez, Fiennes went on to say "she has an extraordinary work ethic, so she is prepared like no one else. She, in terms of the fight, was 100% in it emotionally and knew it inside out in terms of the choreographies. So that combination lent a danger to being in the scene with her, because if you didn’t know your thing, you are, you know, your moves and what you’re doing, you are liable to get knocked out."

The Mother: Reviews

Early reviews for The Mother so far point to mixed reactions towards the movie.

The folks at Yahoo! weren't impressed, referring to it as "decent if forgettable," expanding on this by adding "This is supposed to be a big emotional journey for Mother and Zoe and the viewing audience, but I can’t say this movie ever really convinces you to care about this relationship, which is especially odd because there have been plenty of random pairings of adult assassins and non-blood relation children in movies that I’ve felt invested in. The Mother just expects that you’re on board with some essential connection, which Paul Raci (nice to see him again on screen) tries his best to sell."

However, an entertainment journalist on Twitter enjoyed the film, writing "THE MOTHER was hugely entertaining. And Jennifer Lopez was badass to the bone. A relentless adrenaline rush action thriller. Interesting to celebrate the upcoming Mother's Day with a non-tear jerker like this, but I very much welcomed the change of scenery." 

However, another social media critic didn't agree, saying "THE MOTHER is an instantly forgettable Netflix film about a spy mother who must protect her estranged daughter because "bad people from the past". Jennifer Lopez is good, Lucy Paez is GREAT, but none save it from its bland, generic story. Expected more from Niki Caro. #TheMother."

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Video of the Week

Fans of Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story have been left wondering what happened to Reynolds after a heartbreaking final scene.

The Bridgerton spin-off has finally landed on Netflix, and viewers will be please to hear there are just as many steamy scenes as the original show. The prequel follows a young Queen Charlotte as she navigates her complicated marriage to King George, and there's also appearances from Bridgerton favorite, Violet. Many fans have been left wanting to know more about the true story behind the show, from whether Queen Charlotte was a real Queen and what illness King George had, to where Queen Charlotte was filmed.

And as well as the romance between the two main characters, the love story between the King's secretary, Reynolds, and Queen Charlotte's right hand man, Brimsley, has earned the pair a place as one of Bridgerton fans' favourite couples. But with one member of the duo missing from Queen Charlotte's final scenes, viewers have been left asking what happened to Reynolds.

What happened to Reynolds?

Hugh Sachs, who plays an older Brimsley, revealed in an interview with Vulture that Reynolds and Brimsley split up. He added that this was originally planned to be revealed at the end of the show, but the scene was cut.

He said: "There was a scene that we didn’t film, because it was cut, where I was going to meet the older Reynolds. He was the love of his life, and for whatever reason, they could not stay together."

"So, when they would pass each other in the passageway in the deleted scene, it wasn’t a toxic moment. Because of the world they inhabited, it was still a hangable offence to be gay, and it was just not possible."

In one of the final scenes of episode six, Reynolds and Brimsley are seen dancing together at the ball. Cut to the current Bridgerton timeline and Brimsley is seen dancing by himself.

This left fans wondering whether Reynolds might be dead, but Bridgerton writer Shonda Rhimes has confirmed that Reynolds is still very much alive. In a post on Shondaland.com, she said: "Reynolds is not dead. There’s a lot more I could write about that. It was sexy, and it was fun, and it felt very romantic to watch them also have a very real complicated love."

Meanwhile, Freddie Dennis and Sam Clemmett, who play Reynolds and Brimsley respectively, have their own theories as to where Reynolds is now. "On holiday in the Maldives," Dennis joked to Netflix's Tudum. Clemmett argued, "Reynolds is obviously in Barbados. Did Freddie say the Maldives? He has no idea."

And Bridgerton author Julia Quinn has an idea too, telling Insider, "I want Reynolds to be a secret duke. He is so duke-y. Especially the way Freddie plays him."

What happened to Brimsley?

Brimsley is still Queen Charlotte's right-hand man. In episode six, he revealed to Queen Charlotte that he is single, and questions how he could be in a relationship with anyone, when he's by her side at all times. 

And with Bridgerton renewed for a third and fourth season, it's likely we'll see more of Brimsley in the future. 

Who plays Reynolds in Bridgerton?

Reynolds is played by Freddie Dennis in Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story. He recently graduated from the Oxford School of Drama and has previously appeared in HBO series The Nevers.

On his role in Queen Charlotte, Dennis told Tudum, "I'm filled with a sense of pride to bring the first central LGBTQ+ storyline to this incredibly rich and diverse world. I hope that fans love the storyline as much as Sam and I loved telling it."

He also spoke about that final scene where Reynolds and Brimsley are seen dancing together, saying: "It required a vulnerability on my part as well because I’m not a comfortable dancer."

Who plays Brimsley in Bridgerton?

Young Brimsley in played by Sam Clemmett, while the older Brimsley is played by Hugh Sachs. Clemmett previously portrayed Albus Potter in the original West End Palace Theatre production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, while Hugh Sachs is known for his role in Benidorm.

Speaking to Tudum about Brimsley and Reynolds' love story, Sam Clemmett said, "These are two young men that lead these very isolated lives within the monarchy. Their No. 1 duty in life is to serve the crown. But in their downtime, the only other person they have is [each other]." 

He added: "They have this really beautiful emotional support system for each other, and they seek solace in each other."

If you're after more Bridgerton news, we've got the details on everything there is to know about Bridgerton season 3, where it's filmed and a complete rundown of the season 2 soundtrack. In the meantime, you might also want to know where The Buccaneers was filmed.

Video of the Week

As expected, the backdrop to Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, is lavish and opulent - but where can the locations be found in real life? 

Bridgerton fans rejoice: Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story is finally upon us. Gracing Netflix on May 4, viewers can feast their eyes on the backstory of the iconic Queen Charlotte, and her marriage to King George III, which was sadly marred by his illness. Based on a real Queen thought to be the first Queen of Black ancestry, the Bridgerton writers have reimagined Queen Charlotte's story with their own brand of thrills and sumptuous feels. Read on to find out where the stunning backdrops that offset the acting action for the latest Bridgerton instalment can be found, and if you are able to visit them. 

Other burning questions viewers have about Queen Charlotte include what happened to Reynolds, the King's secretary, while others are wondering if Queen Charlotte's story acts as season 3 of Bridgerton but fear not, it is a standalone series and season 3 will arrive shortly. 

Where was Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton story filmed? 

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story filmed in Wiltshire, Somerset, Lincolnshire, and Oxfordshire, with internal shots filmed in Shepperton Studios, London.

In Wiltshire, cast and crew of Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story were reportedly spotted at Wilton House. This is unsurprising, as the house has featured extensively in Bridgerton before, as home of the Hastings' and Lady Danbury, as well as Queen Charlotte herself. Being over 450 years old, the house is home to The Earl and Countess of Pembroke, and is open for the public to visit. No stranger to appearing on screen, Wilton House has featured in Emma, and The Crown. 

In Somerset, Bath was used for filming - another location used extensively in the previous Bridgerton series. Actors from the show were spotted outside Bath's Assembly rooms, wearing protective clothing over their costumes in between takes. Although speculation at the time pointed to Bridgerton season 3 filming, the timing coincides with Queen Charlotte being in production.

In Lincolnshire, Belton House near Grantham found itself being used as a backdrop to the action. An eagle-eyed Twitter user managed to snap crews at the National Trust property, despite those behind the show keeping locations shrouded in mystery. The house and grounds are open for the public to visit, boasting the National Trust's largest outdoor adventure playground.

Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, was reportedly the location for scenes involving Queen Charlotte arriving at the Palace. The birthplace of Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace is also open for visitors. It has also been used as filming location multiple times, featuring in Harry Potter, James Bond, and Mission Impossible. 

When was Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story filmed?

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story began filming in February 2022, and wrapped in August 2022.

In March 2022, director Tom Verica shared a picture of the script for the show, alongside one of production underway. He also shared snippets from filming to his Instagram account, along the way. 

On August 30, he shared a tweet simply saying "That’s a wrap. This production, this cast, this crew…just wait." An excited follower replied "If you're directing or acting, I already know its going to be good." Another equally excitedly added "Charlotte’s story is fantastic in the history books so I can't wait to see what you’ve created." 

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story: Cast 

• Golda Rosheuvel (Dune, Death in Paradise) as Queen Charlotte
• India Amarteifio (Sex Education, The Midwich Cuckoos) as young Queen Charlotte
• Adjoa Andoh (Line of Duty, The Witcher) as Lady Danbury
• Arsema Thomas (One Touch, Redeeming Love) as young Lady Danbury
• Ruth Gemmell (Utopia, Penny Dreadful) as Violet
• Connie Jenkins-Greig as young Violet 
• Hugh Sachs (Benidorm, Father Brown) as Brimsley
• Sam Clemmett (The Muskateers, Endeavour) as young Brimsley
• Michelle Fairley (Gangs of London, Game of Thrones) as Princess Augusta
• Corey Mylchreest (The Sandman, Mars) as young King George III
• Richard Cunningham (Rogue One, Gold) as Lord Bute
• Tunji Kasim (Shetland, Nancy Drew) as Adolphus
• Rob Maloney (Coronation Street, Eastenders) as the Royal Doctor
• Cyril Nri (Death in Paradise, Jellyfish) as Lord Danbury
• Katie Brayben (Vera, The Wheel of Time) as Vivian Ledger
• Keir Charles (Man Up, Green Wing) as Lord Ledger
• Freddie Dennis (The Nevers) as Reynolds

Actress Golda Rosheuvel spoke to Harper's Bazaar about the series seeing Charlotte embrace her role as a mother, which isn't seen much in Bridgerton. She said "That was great for me because, in Bridgerton, I always made sure that in every scene, I think of George. I had one moment where I think of George and one moment where I think of family and what that means."

She continued "In Bridgerton, it’s always in the background of my thoughts because we never see them, and we see George very briefly. The fact that we got to have 13 actors physically in front of me there and put faces to the imagination was indescribable. It was a unique experience, and seeing her complex relationships with the kids made her human. 

Queen Charlotte is a very intimate look at this character and the Bridgerton world. Bridgerton is all about the glitz and glamour, but Queen Charlotte is tiny and intimate. It’s very delicate in its darkness yet still under the same banner. I found that really fascinating and really thrilling to have 13 children in front of me."

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Video of the Week

The latest instalment in the Bridgerton franchise is here! It is also leaving viewers with questions about iconic Queen Charlotte, and whether she really existed in history.

With the enduringly popular Bridgerton pulling in millions of viewers, there were sure to be spin-offs, and further ways to expand the world of Shonda Rhimes' characters. The first spin-off, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story is a limited series following Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, landing on Netflix on May 4. As she leaves her aristocratic home in Germany and finds herself in the arms of King George III through no choice of her own, the pair's newlywed story is told. Prepare for romantic highs, and terrible lows as the newly formed union unleashes a pivotal moment for English aristocratic history, sparking the world where Bridgerton follows - expect an appearance from Violet Bridgerton and an exploration of her early relationship with Lady Danbury. With many asking if Queen Charlotte was a real historical figure, read on for the truth.

Not the only question viewers have about the show - such as what illness does King George have and what happened to Reynolds, his secretary - they've also asked what is the Queen snorting in Bridgerton? The mysterious substance inhaled by Queen Charlotte in the first seasons had viewers very confused. If you've ever wondered where Bridgerton filmed, we also have the full lowdown on this.  

Is Queen Charlotte in Bridgerton based on a real Queen?

Yes, Bridgerton's Queen Charlotte is based on Charlotte Sophia of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, who became Queen in 1761 after marrying King George III. She is believed to be the first Queen of Black ancestry.

According to the Washington Post, historians believe Queen Charlotte was of African descent. Historian Mario De Valdes y Cocom suggests she was directly descended from Alfonso III after he took a concubine named Ouruana, who was a black Moor, in the 13th century. 

He said "In the 13th century, Alfonso III of Portugal conquered a little town named Faro from the Moors. He demanded [the governor’s] daughter as a paramour. He had three children with her" He also believes their son Martin Alfonso, married into the noble de Sousa family, also with black ancestry. Therefore, Queen Charlotte would have had African blood from both sides of her family.

Queen Charlotte was previously honoured by Black communities, who were convinced from her portraits and features depicted in them, she had African ancestry. However, some have disputed the findings of Valdes, asserting the word 'blackamoor' doesn't always refer to Black people, with white North African Moors also existing. 

When the Palace were asked for a statement on the matter, they reportedly told the Boston Globe "This has been rumoured for years and years. It is a matter of history, and frankly, we’ve got far more important things to talk about." 

Does Queen Charlotte exist in the Bridgerton books?

No, Queen Charlotte doesn't exist in the Bridgerton books, she was a character created purely for the series.

Speaking to Oprah Daily, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story showrunner Chris Van Dusen said "Queen Charlotte opened up an entirely new world for us. What really struck me with the books from the beginning is that this was an opportunity to marry history and fantasy in a really exciting, interesting way. So in Queen Charlotte, that was the history. And then it was thinking of these fantastical scenes and situations to put her in that were really fun to write, too."

Julia Quinn, author of the original Bridgerton novels, has also spoken about the inclusion of a character she didn't write. She added "I go back and forth between wishing I had actually written her in the books and then being glad I didn't, because I don't know if I could have done as good a job."

Also weighing in on the possibility the real Queen Charlotte was Black, Quinn had this to say: "I don't think it's ever going to be proven or disproven to be honest with you. But let's say she was Black. And what if that was accepted at the time and people acknowledge that, and then she used that position to lift other people of colour to higher positions in society. What would society look like?" 

Did Queen Charlotte in Bridgerton have a child?

Yes, Queen Charlotte and King George in Bridgerton have many children, the eldest being Prince Regent George.

They go on to have a further 11 living children, Prince Frederick, Prince William, Princess Charlotte, Prince Edward, Princess Augusta, Princess Elizabeth, Prince Ernest, Prince Augustus, Prince Adolphus, Princess Mary, Princess Sophia.

The real Queen Charlotte and King George welcomed their first child less than a year after marrying, in August 1762. Known as Prince of Wales, he later became King George IV. Queen Charlotte was also the grandmother of Queen Victoria, and great-great-great-great-grandmother of Queen Elizabeth II. 

Did the real Queen Charlotte have 15 children?

Yes, the real Queen Charlotte had 15 children, 13 of whom survived to adulthood.

When Queen Charlotte died at the age of 74 on November 17, 1818, her eldest son was by her side. A year later, King George III died on January 29, 1820, at the age of 81. Their eldest son George was succeeded by his sons, George IV and William IV. With neither producing legitimate children of their own, the only legitimate child of Prince Edward became Queen - this was Queen Victoria. 

Queen Charlotte and King George married in London in September 1761 - they wed hours after meeting after having never previously met, aged 17 and 23 respectively. Queen Charlotte remains the longest-serving female consort in British Royal history. Following the Duke of Edinburgh, she is the second-longest-serving consort in British history. 

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Video of the Week

Netflix's Bridgerton series has brought a hole host of loveable characters to our screens and the epitome of the Ton, the ever-elegant, snuff-sniffing, Whistledown-hunting Queen Charlotte is about to get her very own spin-off. 

Netflix announced they were filming Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story last May, with Bridgerton's original producer Shonda Rhimes set to write and executive produce the series, according to Variety. Details have so far remained under wraps with secrecy shrouding any and all Bridgerton spoilers - but a few things have slipped through the cracks.  Here's everything we know about Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story including its release date, possible plot and its main character. 

When will Princess Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story be released on Netflix?

Netflix's Princess Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story will be released on 4 May 2023. The six-episode limited series was first teased at Netflix's winter 2022 fan event, Tudum, where a short clip showed Queen Charlotte meeting her future lover, King George, for the first time. 

As the show has been billed as a limited series, this means it will only run for one season and fans will only be getting those initial six episodes. 

What will the Bridgerton spin-off be about?

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story will tell the tale of Queen Charlotte's origin story, illustrating her life up until we meet the Royal in season one of Bridgeton. As the show is a prequel series, we know that Charlotte will be seen meeting and falling in love with the King of England, her husband in the Bridgerton series, though we don't know exactly how this story played out.

A main element of the series will also reportedly illustrate the societal shifts that followed Charlotte's marriage to King George. This change has been hinted at by Lady Danbury who previously mentioned in season one of Bridgerton that the pair's coupling opened the door for people of colour enter elite society. 

Netflix’s head of global TV, Bela Bajaria, said, "Many viewers had never known the story of Queen Charlotte before Bridgerton brought her to the world, and I’m thrilled this new series will further expand her story and the world of Bridgerton."

As per Netflix's media team, "The spinoff will also tell the stories of young Violet Bridgerton and Lady Danbury.” This focus on the older ladies of the Ton is very exciting for fans as the original show glosses over the stories that made them the strong, independent women we see portrayed. 

Where to watch Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story?

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story will be available to watch exclusively on Netflix from 4 May 2023. If you cannot wait that long, teasers are available to watch on both Netflix and the Netflix YouTube channel. 

Is The Queen in Bridgerton historically accurate?

Although Bridgerton is a fictional series, the character of Queen Charlotte is a real historical figure and there are many, many similarities between the two Queens. The real story of Queen Charlotte didn't need much adaptation for the screen as she truly lived out a fairytale fit for a film. Just as shown in Bridgerton, Queen Charlotte really did marry King George III of Britain to become, as is historically believed despite there being no official confirmation, England's first monarch of colour.

Speaking of Queen Charlotte's heritage, Producer Van Dusen told ET, "That's something that really resonated with me. I started to wonder what that could have looked like. What could this queen have done? Could she have used her power to elevate other people of colour in society?"

Also shown in the show, according to royal expert Carolyn Harris, "Queen Charlotte liked Pomeranian dogs and brought her Pomeranians with her to England when she married King George III. She created a fashion for owning Pomeranians."

But there are some inaccuracies in the name of creating drama. Harris explains, "In Bridgerton, Queen Charlotte is depicted as the arbiter of the annual social season, deciding who will be the most prominent debutante each year." But according to the expert, while there were key social moments centred on the Queen, she likely didn't have as much sway as Bridgerton makes out.

What happened to Queen Charlotte's daughter in Bridgerton?

Queen Charlotte's daughter in both Bridgerton and real life died at the age of 27 from tuberculosis. In both Bridgerton and real life, Queen Charlotte and King George had 15 children together though they're rarely mentioned throughout the show. One of the couple's daughter's, Amelia, is the only child mentioned by name in the series, and she is only referred to when viewers learn she became ill and died from tuberculosis.

Conversations with Friends is the new Sally Rooney book adaptation coming soon. But how long will fans have to wait before the show hits our screens and who has been cast for the show?

If you love a good book adaptation like Bridgerton or Netflix's Heartstopper then there's another novel-to-screen series to keep a look out for.

Based on Sally Rooney's first novel of the same name, Conversations with Friends centres on two Dublin college students, Frances and Bobbi, and the strange and unexpected connection they forge with a married couple, Melissa and Nick.

And if you loved Sally Rooney's Normal People, you're bound to like this. But when will we get to see Conversations with Friends?

Conversations with Friends release date

Conversations with friends is due to be released on Sunday 15th May 2022. The 12-part TV series will premiere on BBC3 and BBC iPlayer in the UK and Hulu in the US. All 12 episodes will also be available to stream that day on BBC iPlayer. Each episode is 30 minutes in length, like Normal People was.

Who is in the Conversations with Friends cast?

• Alison Oliver (newcomer) as Frances - a 21-year-old university student
• Joe Alwyn (The Favourite) - married actor Nick who has a secret affair with Frances
• Saha Lane (American Honey) - as Frances's ex-girlfriend and best friend Bobbi
• Jemima Kirke (Sex Education) will play writer and Nick's wife Melissa

Executive producer and director Lenny Abrahamson spoke about the casting process during the TCA panel. "When you’re casting a quartet that’s so tightly bound together, every thought about one character informs all the other characters," he noted.

Meanwhile upon the cast announcement back in February 2021, cast member Joe Alwyn shared a post which read, "Conversations With Friends’ is one of my favourite books of the last few years. I’m so grateful and excited to be invited onboard, and to get to work with this amazingly talented group of people."

What is Conversations with Friends about?

Directed by Normal People's Lenny Abrahamson, the story centres on Frances and Bobbi, who despite splitting up three years ago, remain inseparable until they meet writer Melissa after performing spoken word poetry together in Dublin. As Bobbi and Melissa begin to openly flirt with one another, Nick and Frances find themselves drawn to each other and begin an intense affair that begins to test the bond between Frances and Bobbi as well as Frances's view of herself.

A trailer was released by BBC3 and it gives fans the first glimpse of Frances and Bobbi's relationship with intriguing older couple Melissa and Nick. You can watch it below...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NPgz0Yoiqo

Is Conversations with Friends based on a true story?

Conversations with Friends is not based on a true story, despite the assumptions that young female writers mirror their own lives but it does draw upon Sally Rooney's experience as a competitive debater while she studied at Trinity College Dublin as its when she was introduced to an elite and unfamiliar world.

Sally recalled, "I thought, I have to very quickly now absorb the norms and the social behaviour and the etiquette that will make me socially acceptable. And that certainly informed the novel. That’s how Frances feels with Melissa and their friends: I want these people to accept me. How do I do that? How do I observe them closely enough that I can fool them into thinking I can belong?” The book becomes a treatise about not just the complexities of desire in the modern era, but also the complexities of being a young woman in the world, with all of the potential heights and hazards that follow along."

Where was Conversations with Friends filmed?

Filming took place in Ireland when the cameras started rolling in Belfast back in April 2021, the official Instagram page for Conversations with Friends posted, "It’s Day 1 of filming #ConversationswithFriends in Northern Ireland! We’re so excited to bring this world to life. ❤️ @hulu @bbcthree @element_pictures" alongside a snap of a clapperboard.

Conversations with Friends airs on Sunday May 15th on BBC3 and BBC iPlayer. And if you're looking for another book adaptation show check out The Essex Serpent, coming to Apple+TV on May 13th.

Related video

Already hooked on the second season of Bridgerton? As the hit Netflix period drama grips the nation yet again, many fans of the show are curious about the Bridgerton season 2 soundtrack.

It's safe to say that Bridgerton season 2 has successfully shaken up audiences since it arrived on Netflix in late March. The producers have treated us to some new Bridgerton cast members, plus an addictive new romance to invest in. And yet whilst the Duke is not in Bridgerton this series, there's the same stand-out features of the first to enjoy - including the stunning stately homes where Bridgerton is filmed and of course, the music.

It's catchy classic pop song covers were already a huge talking point of the show. And Bridgerton's music supervisor and composer haven't disappointed with new gems in the season 2 soundtrack. They've shared some juicy behind the scenes information about the famous songs given a makeover this time around and we've collated everything you need to know whilst viewing.

What are the songs covered in the Bridgerton season 2 soundtrack?

• Nirvana's 'Stay Away' covered by Vitamin String Quartet
• Madonna's Material Girl covered by Kris Bowers
• Rihanna's Diamonds covered by Hannah V and Joe Rodwell
• Robyn's Dancing on My Own covered by Vitamin String Quartet
• Alanis Morissette's You Oughta Know covered by Duomo
• Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham covered by Kris Bowers
• Harry Styles' Sign of the Times covered by Steve Horner
• P!nk's What About Us covered by Duomo
• Calvin Harris and Disciples' How Deep Is Your Love covered by Kiris
• Miley Cyrus' Wrecking Ball covered by Midnight String Quartet

Bridgerton season 2 soundtrack: Episode by episode

1. Nirvana's 'Stay Away' covered by Vitamin String Quartet

When does it play: Episode 1, around minute 11:45

The first pop song cover we hear in season 2 is Nirvana’s Stay Away. It plays during a montage of Anthony Bridgerton going about his day. This includes interviewing potential matches, going on dates and having to deal with all the family duties. The aggressive energy of this string cover is different from the usual Bridgerton sounds we hear, mimicking Anthony’s stressed mood and urgency to find a wife.

2. Madonna's Material Girl covered by Kris Bowers

When does it play: Episode 1, around minute 27:15

For the first ball of season 2, viewers are treated to a stunning rendition of Madonna’s hit Material Girl by the show’s composer, Kris Bowers. The song plays in the background as Lady Danbury - the ball’s host - narrates eligible bachelors for the Sharma sisters. The chorus then ramps up as Queen Charlotte makes her entrance to the ball.

Music supervisor Justin Kamps said of the song: “Getting to have Kris compose [the arrangement] allowed us to tailor it exactly for that moment of the Sharmas’ arrival.”

3. Rihanna's Diamonds covered by Hannah V and Joe Rodwell

When does it play: Episode 1, around minute 54:21

This song is the perfect soundtrack for Queen Charlotte's ball naming the diamond of the season. In this ball scene, Queen Charlotte scans the young women in the room as she tries to decide who to name her diamond. The instrumental cover provides the perfect atmosphere as Lady Danbury schemes to get Edwina named - which ultimately works.

4. Robyn's Dancing on My Own covered by Vitamin String Quartet

When does it play: Episode 4, around minute 38

Kate and Anthony dance for the first time to this instrumental cover of Robyn's 2010 hit. Music supervisor Justin Kamps said of the song choice: "This song has a great energy to it. At this point in the story, we’re in a situation where Anthony is more publicly courting Edwina. But clearly Kate and Anthony have a connection.

"The lyrics focus on having feelings for someone, but you’re not the one that they’re kissing, and you’re not the one that they’re taking home," he adds. "I think that reflects both their feelings in that moment. They’re having this dance and shooting these tension-filled looks at each other. There are so many emotions as their eyes dart toward each other. And certain people in the crowd are picking up on the electricity between them."

5. Alanis Morissette's You Oughta Know covered by Duomo

When does it play: Episode 5, around minute 51:45

After a disastrous dinner at Lady Danbury's with Lady Mary's parents, the next morning, the angst of the pair is clear. Kate goes for a horseback ride, while Anthony sits in a bathtub, thinking. The famous Lady Whistledown narrates: "Is it already too late to turn back to duty and away from desire?"

Music supervisor Justin Kramps explained: “It plays at a point where on another show you might have an explosive end to the episode. But instead we have this lovely track that now has this anticipatory feel. Bringing you along as Kate and Anthony discuss what they’re going to do, Kate is begging Anthony to continue with the plan and marry her sister. [Adding to] the emotions that we’re left with after he agrees to do that, this song has a propulsive feeling that brings the viewer along.”

6. Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham covered by Kris Bowers

When does it play: Episode 6, around minute 2:48

On the eve of Edwina's wedding to Anthony, the Sharma sisters and their mother participate in a haldi ceremony, the traditional beginning of Hindu wedding rituals. This cover, from the famous Bollywood film of the same name, is another by the show’s composer, Kris Bowers.

"It’s the first time we’ve included a Bollywood track," says music supervisor Justin Kramps. "It’s so appropriate because it’s playing during the sequence that features the Haldi ceremony prior to Edwina and Anthony’s wedding and is intercut with Anthony’s bachelor party. There’s been so much excitement about hearing this cover from fans online. We had a unique opportunity to include it, and I’m so glad we did because it will be meaningful to a lot of people feeling like they’re being represented."

7. Harry Styles' Sign of the Times covered by Steve Horner

When does it play: Episode 6, around minute 17:45

According to Bridgerton's music supervisor, Justin Kramps, this was the hardest cover to get this season. He called it "a pretty difficult clearance." The song plays during Anthony and Edwina’s wedding ceremony.

Justin added: “Listening to the original song, you might not think that it would work for a bride walking down an aisle. But the cover is just so big, and the strings are flying all over the place; it’s sweeping and soaring and majestic. It really does lend itself to this big moment in someone’s life.”

8. P!nk's What About Us covered by Duomo

When does it play: Episode 6, around minute 59:27

This song is played after Edwina decides not to go through with the wedding and various plotlines move rapidly along at the end of episode 6. Music supervisor Justin Kamps explained: “It felt appropriate because everyone in that situation is kind of left thinking, ‘Okay, well, now what about us? What are we going to do?’

"Edwina’s left the marriage, so what’s going to happen with Anthony, with Kate, with the Sharmas, with the Bridgerton family?," he adds. "Are they going to be able to weather the scandal? That’s everyone’s question on their mind at that moment."

9. Calvin Harris and Disciples' How Deep Is Your Love covered by Kiris

When does it play: Episode 7, around minute 49:41

This cover is played during Anthony and Kate’s highly anticipated sex scene. Aka the moment the whole season has been building up to. The pair can no longer keep their hands off each other and end up making love outdoors, finally consummating their romance. And this song provides the perfect backdrop to the steamy scene.

10. Miley Cyrus' Wrecking Ball covered by Midnight String Quartet

When does it play: Episode 8, around minute 48.57

In the final episode, Kate asks Anthony: "Are you going to ask me to dance one last time?" To which he replies: "Are you going to say yes?" He then takes her hand and they walk onto the dance floor. Just as the instrumental cover of Miley Cyrus’ hit begins.

The lyrics of the hit song make perfect sense for the duo too. As they end up declaring their love for one another in the garden as fireworks explode around them.

What song is the Bridgerton theme song?

The main title theme of Bridgerton was composed by Kris Bowers, who is the main composer for the show. When scoring season one, his goal was to find the “sound of Bridgerton.” His task from show creator Chris Van Dusen was to create music with a modern, “fresh take on the Regency period.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngbdH0UWIHc&t=60s

Speaking about how he came up with the theme song, Kris Bowers revealed: “The fun thing about it is that it wasn’t initially written as the theme song. It was written as a piece to play during the ball where Daphne and Simon first dance together under the fireworks at the Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens.

"It took a second to find that theme, something that worked for that moment, because Chris [Van Dusen] wanted something that felt modern. We wrote it to the BPM [beats per minute] of Daphne’s and Simon’s dancing and created something that functioned similarly to a pop song. When it came time to write the main title, I tried a few different ideas, reworking other parts of other themes, including the Lady Whistledown theme, Daphne’s theme, and Daphne and Simon’s theme.

"And at some point, Chris asked the music editor to try cutting that little piece of music from the ball into the main title and just fell in love with the way it worked.”

Video of the Week:

Palaces, ballrooms and grandeur galore - many fans are wondering where is Bridgerton filmed and what era is it set in?

March 2022 proved to be an exciting month for Netflix audiences as fans of period drama Bridgerton were FINALLY reunited with Lady Whistledown and tales from the ton. The romantic series had everyone gripped when it was released on Christmas Day 2020. With viewers taken by both the storyline and it's clever classical spins on pop songs - which continues in the Bridgerton season 2 soundtrack.

Music and action aside, fans have also become obsessed by the beautiful historic buildings and settings that appear in the show. The first series was filmed in around 100 locations, many of which can be visited in real life. And whilst we enjoy the new Bridgerton season 2 cast members - minus the Duke of Hastings - we thought we'd share the exact locations where the show has been filmed.

Where is Bridgerton filmed?

Most of Bridgerton is filmed in Bath. However, they also use other locations across the UK including London, Hertfordshire, Yorkshire, Hampshire, Kent, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Surrey. A lot of these filming locations are historical stately homes, some of which have also featured in The Crown.

The series explores the lives of the city’s well-to-do in the neighbourhood of Mayfair. But while the majority of scenes were shot in London, most were actually filmed outside of the capital.

Nicola Coughlan, who plays Penelope Featherington in Bridgerton, has revealed that Hatfield House in Hertfordshire was her favourite filming location. The exterior, the West Garden, the Marble Hall and the Library of Hatfield were all used for Bridgerton filming. Though it's also been the setting for other popular films including The Favourite starring Olivia Coleman and Netflix film Rebecca.

Olivia Coleman fan Nicola said: “We shot at Hatfield House, which was the house that they filmed The Favourite in. I did sneak upstairs because I wanted to see Olivia Colman’s room. I was trying to rub the walls so that her acting talent would rub onto me!”

Where is Bridgerton house filmed?

The exterior of the Bridgerton family’s Grosvenor Square mansion is filmed at Ranger's House in Greenwich, South East London. At the time Bridgerton is set, the Georgian villa was inhabited by King George III’s sister, Princess Augusta. Though today, the plush residence is run by English Heritage.

Built in 1722, Ranger House houses a world-class art collection, including medieval sculptures, ornate jewellery and fine French tapestries. For the property’s appearance in Bridgerton, wisteria and ivy were added to the exterior to give it a more enchanting appearance.

The interiors of the Bridgerton family house were filmed at RAF Halton — one of the UK's largest Royal Air Force stations — in Buckinghamshire. The scenes featuring the grand hall, stairs, hallway, and smoking room were all filmed here. 

The same location was also used to film some of the Featherington house interiors. Daphne Bridgerton and the Duke of Hastings' wedding reception was also filmed there. RAF Halton has been used by the military since 1913 and has also been used in Downton Abbey and The King's Speech.

Jonathan Bailey, who plays Anthony Bridgerton, revealed his experience of filming in such stunning locations:

“We went around these amazing National Trust sites and filmed in places that I’d lived near," he said. "In Greenwich Rangers Lodge, which was literally a four minute walk away from where I used to live. We filmed just off Buckingham Palace, Hampton Court Palace. It was just amazing.”

Where is the Duke’s house in Bridgerton filmed?

The Duke of Hastings' residence Clyvedon Castle - where he and Daphne move in together after their wedding - was filmed in Wilton House, Syon House, Castle Howard and Badminton House. The 18th Century estate Castle Howard in York is what fans will recognise as the exterior of the Duke's house. 

The portrait hall, hallway, dining room and entrance hall were all shot at Wilton House in Salisbury. Whilst the study and dressing room of the Duke of Hastings were filmed at Syon House in London. Badminton House in Gloucestershire was also used for the interior shots of Clyvedon castle, including the Duke’s parlour and mornings rooms. 

Phoebe Dynevor, who plays Daphne Bridgerton, has revealed that her first ever Bridgerton scene was filmed in the fictional Clyvedon castle. And it was for one of the racier scenes of the series.

She explained: “My first-ever scene was in episode six, where Simon is going down on Daphne. And it was so great, because it felt safe and fun: you choreograph it like a stunt, or a dance.”

Where is the Queen's house in Bridgerton?

Hampton Court Palace in Richmond is the real-life residence of Queen Charlotte in Bridgerton. The 47,000 square metre palace just off the River Thames was once owned by King Henry VIII. Making it the perfect setting for the show's royal character.

Whilst the Grade 1 listed Hampton Court Palace - built in the 1500s - makes up the exterior of Queen Charlotte's home, another period propety was used for interior scenes. Wilton House - aka the Duke of Hastings' estate - also provided the backdrop for her bedroom, parlour and garden. Whilst the house's Single Cube Room with it's plush ivory and gold decorations played host to Queen Charlotte's throne room.

Queen Charlotte was a real-life royal who was married to King George III. And her portrayal on the show has proven quite accurate, with the Bridgerton Queen who snorts snuff known for her habit back in the day.

She wed her husband aged 17 and within six hours of meeting him on 8 September 1761. But while the series' Queen Charlotte (played by Golda Rosheuvel) lived in Hampton Court Palace, the real Queen resided at Buckingham Palace.

Where were the ball scenes in Bridgerton filmed?

Most of the ball scenes were shot among the different rooms at Leigh Court - a 19th-century historic property 45 minutes west of Bath. However, other Bridgerton balls were filmed in the Assembly Rooms’ Ball Room and the Guildhall Banqueting Room in Bath. And the first ball of the season was filmed at the Holburne Museum of Art in Bath.

Production designer Will Hughes-Jones revealed how they shot the balls:

“We shot three balls in three days," he said. "Those three - the Ingenue Ball [episode 3], which was the blue and white one with the big staircase, the Crystal Ball [episode 2], which was the one with obviously lots of crystal in it. And the Bird Ball [episode 3] with terracotta walls and a bird theme with live birds who were very loud during filming - were all done in one building at Leigh Court in Bristol.”

Where are the street scenes in Bridgerton filmed?

Like most of the series, the streets of Bath provided many of the filming locations for Bridgerton's street scenes. The city’s Royal Crescent was the location for the exterior shots of Grosvenor Square and the Featherington house. The dressmaker and tea shop we see in series one are also located in Bath.

Away from Mayfair, the run-down London streets are filmed at Chatham Historic Dockyard in Kent. This is also where Simon and Will’s boxing matches were filmed. And the scenes where Daphne gets to know the villagers at Clyvedon Village, after she moves in with Simon, were filmed in Coneysthorpe in Yorkshire.

As for the outdoor spaces in Bridgerton, Surrey’s Painshill Park features as Primrose Hill in the series and Stowe Park in Buckinghamshire was used to depict Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens. Several outdoor scenes were also filmed at Windsor Great Park.

What time period is Bridgerton set in?

Bridgerton is set in the year 1813, which puts it in the Regency era. This was when Great Britain and Ireland were coming to the end of the Georgian era. Regency is originally a political term used to describe when a person was appointed to administer the affairs of the country during the minority, absence or incapacity of the sovereign.

Regé-Jean Page, who played the Duke of Hastings in series one, has spoken about the time period of the series. He said: “You realise that these characters are dealing with very 21st-century problems in the show.

“People have always had the same desires and needs, no matter whether it’s 200 years ago or now. It’s just dressed up in different clothes and shaped by different societal restrictions

“We’re seeing this Regency romance through a feminist lens, examining what masculinity means for a broken antihero like my character. And how he can then allow himself to change and be loved.”

Fans of period dramas like Bridgerton might want to tune in to Hotel Portofino.

Video of the Week:

There's some new Bridgerton season 2 cast members for fans to get acquainted with - including a new love interest for Viscount Bridgerton played by Sex Education's Simone Ashley.

It was the lockdown drama everyone was talking about during Christmas 2020. The Gossip-Girl inspired period drama Bridgerton filmed in stately homes across the UK boasted character, charm and drama by the bucketload. And of course, some fabulous classical covers of famous pop songs, which the Bridgerton season 2 soundtrack is set to continue.

Arriving on Netflix in late March, the follow-up has provided plenty more sex, secrets and regency silhouettes. Though sadly Regé-Jean Page aka the Duke is not in Bridgerton, after confirming he won't return for season 2 in April last year. Luckily, executive producer Shonda Rhimes has provided us with some shiny new faces to keep the story just as interesting. And we've shared all the need-to-know details on these new character additions.

Who are the new Bridgerton season 2 cast members?

Simone Ashley plays Kate Sharma

Netflix revealed that Sex Education star Simone Ashley will be joining the Bridgerton cast as Kate Sharma for the second series. The Netflix announcement read: "Get ready to fall in love with Simone Ashley. Kate is a smart, headstrong young woman who suffers no fools - Anthony Bridgerton very much included." 

Simone, who also starred in ITV’s hit drama Broadchurch has opened up about her experience on set, revealing she made a huge error on her first day. She told Glamour: "On my first day, I was like, 'OK, first day as a leading lady, got to eat lots of food, be really energised'. So, I had this massive portion of salmon and that's when I needed to be sick, basically because I was wearing the corset.”

She added: “I realised when you wear the corset, you just don't eat. It changes your body. I had a smaller waist very momentarily. Then the minute you stop wearing it, you're just back to how your body is. I had a lot of pain with the corset, too, I think I tore my shoulder at one point!"

Simone also revealed how playing leading lady Kate helped her learn more about herself. She explained: “I'm learning to be more headstrong. I'm quite an emotional person, and I think that's a really great thing. But part of growing up is learning how to control your emotions and be stronger in your mind.

"Kate's really mature and I've learned a lot from her in that sense. Maybe I can sometimes be a bit of a people pleaser, but [Kate] would encourage people to speak their truth, and I really like that about her."

Charithra Chandran plays Edwina Sharma

Kate’s younger sister Edwina will be played by Charitha Chandran, who starred as Sabina Pleasance in Alex Rider. Edwina is a debutante looking for a true love match. But she will also play a key role in Kate and Anthony’s love story. While she is relatively new to the world of entertainment, Charithra is a trained theatre actor at the National Youth Theatre.

Speaking of her acting career, she said: “I feel I’m very lucky that in both the shows that I’m in, a lot of the actors have strong theatre backgrounds. That training is quite notable when people have that kind of background and it reflects in the way that they operate and approach a script. But ultimately, what I learned from all the amazing actors that I’ve worked with is that you just need to be prepared.”

Shelley Con plays Mary Sharma

Another one of Bridgerton season 2 new cast members is Mary Sharma. And Kate and Edwina’s mother, will be played by Shelley Con. The actress has previously starred in TV shows including Liar, Heartbeat and McDonald & Dodds. She’s also featured in films such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

Her character, Lady Mary, was born an Earl’s daughter, but married a tradesman which brought scandal to the family. Now, she's newly returned to London with her daughters. But it seems she’s forced to endure the scrutiny of the town yet again. Especially now that her daughters are entering the world.

Who is returning to Bridgerton season 2?

• Phoebe Dynevor returns as Daphne Bridgerton (Waterloo Road, Prisoners Wives, Dickensian)
• Jonathan Bailey returns as Anthony Bridgerton (Broadchurch, Crashing)
• Polly Walker returns as Lady Portia Featherington (Line of Duty, Mr Selfridge, The Syndicate)
• Nicola Coughlan returns as Penelope Featherington (Derry Girls, Harlots)
• Julie Andrews returns as the voice of Lady Whistledown (The Sound of Music, Mary Poppins, The Princess Diaries)
• Golda Rosheuvel returns as Queen Charlotte (Luther, Lady Macbeth)
• Ruth Gemmell returns as Lady Violet Bridgerton (Silent Witness, Deep State)
• Luke Thompson returns as Benedict Bridgerton (Dunkirk, Kiss me First)
• Luke Newton returns as Colin Bridgerton (Mr Selfridge)
• Claudia Jessie returns as Eloise Bridgerton (Line of Duty, Doctors)
• Adjoa Andoh returns as Lady Danbury (Invictus, Fractured)

Luckily plenty of the original actors are returning as Bridgerton season 2 cast members. Though sadly Regé-Jean Page is not reprising his role as the Duke of Hastings. Reflecting on this, his on-screen love interest, Phoebe Dynevor explained that their story will not be the central focus of season 2:

“We’re very much passing on the baton to the lovely [Jonathan Bailey], who plays Anthony. That will be the main story line of season 2 and the story arc of season 2.”

She added: "There's no such thing as a happy ending, is there? I think love's always shifting and changing. So who knows? I'd like to see what happens next. And also, I'd like to see Daphne get involved in Anthony's love life since he was so involved in hers.”

While Jonathan Bailey said: “The idea that [Bridgerton] is coming out again is a bit of a rug pull. It's quite scary. What it means to be a rake, and how his anxiety and self-hatred plays into that. [In typical period dramas] you never really get behind the men, or know why they're avoidant and toxic."

What is Bridgerton season 2 about?

While the first series focused on Daphne Bridgerton, season 2 will be about Lord Anthony Bridgerton and his new love interest. The show is based on the novel series by Julia Quinn, with season one following the first book, The Duke and I. Therefore, it’s thought that series 2 will be based on the second novel, The Viscount Who Loved Me. This is about Lord Anthony and Kate Sheffield (who has been renamed Kate Sharma in the show).

The official description from Netflix reads: "Season 2 of Bridgerton tells the story of Lord Anthony Bridgerton’s (Jonathan Bailey) quest for love as he sets out to find a suitable wife.

"When Kate Sharma (Simone Ashley) and her younger sister Edwina (Charithra Chandran) arrive from India, Anthony starts to court the latter sister. And Kate soon discovers that his intentions for marriage are not pure."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bs9r1UbmFAI&t=1s

Shonda Rhimes, who is an executive producer of the series, said of the couple: “I think there’s a powerful, interesting, romantic couple at the heart of it. They’re an incredibly interesting and exciting pair. I like to watch them.

“Our goal, if we do our job correctly, is you are going to be as invested and excited by that couple as you were by the couple [the Duke of Hastings and Daphne Bridgerton] of Season 1.”

How many episodes in Bridgerton season 2?

There is 8 episodes of Bridgerton season 2 in total, each one lasting for approximately 60 minutes. This follows the format of series 1, which also featured 8 episodes.

You can catch up with the first series of Bridgerton, which first hit screens on Christmas Day 2020, on Netflix now.

How many seasons of Bridgerton are they going to make?

Netflix have renewed Bridgerton for a third and fourth season. However, as there are 8 Bridgerton siblings, it’s thought there may be 8 series of Bridgerton in total. It’s expected that the series will continue to follow the plot of the books.

Executive producer, Shonda Rhimes, said in a statement: “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.

“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. [fellow executive producer] Betsy and I are thrilled to have the opportunity to continue bringing the world of Bridgerton to a worldwide audience.”

And hinting at further series, Shonda has also said: “There are eight Bridgerton siblings, and as far as I’m concerned, there are eight Bridgerton seasons. And maybe more.”

Video of the Week:

As the second season Bridgerton gets underway, fans binge watching across the world are wondering what is the Queen snorting in the show?

Queen Charlotte and Lady Whistledown is one of the many returning characters of the hit show and while Season 2 introduces some new cast members into the Ton, with the departure of the lovely Rege-Jean Page, the Queen is actually getting more people talking than ever before and it's all down to her actions at the afternoon tea table which are proving puzzling.

One fan tweeted, "Wait what’s that the queen sniff jus now?!"

And another viewer put, "Did I just watch the Queen sniff some white powder? During afternoon tea one needs a little pick me I see. #Bridgerton"

And a third tweeted, "So I’m watching Bridgerton… what the hell did the Queen just sniff??"

What is the Queen snorting in Bridgerton?

The Queen is snorting snuff in Bridgerton - an early form of tobacco that is traditionally ingested through the nose. Snuff is a form of finely chopped tobacco that you ingest by breathing through the nose. It gives users a concentrated hit of nicotine. In the past, Snuff was also often “flavoured” to add an extra burst of scent, taste, or fragrance like modern day form of vaping, except it gets blown up the nose.

In an interview with Decider to promote the new series, actress Golda Rosheuvel, who plays the Queen wanted to assure fans that her character is simply a fan of tobacco and nothing else - despite some viewers being concerned that it could be cocaine.

And even on set there wasn't a bit of tobacco in sight as the powder she sniffs for filming was some form of sugar.

She said, "I think it’s like glucose stuff. At the end of the day I’m like, yeah, wild sugar rush,” Rosheuvel said.

“It’s harmless, it’s fine. Absolutely harmless," she added.

What is snuff?

The powdered tobacco Snuff became widespread throughout the world in during the 18th Century. At first, each quantity was freshly grated. Rappee is the name later given to a coarse, pungent snuff made from dark tobacco and some Snuff takers carried graters around with them.

It became popular in the 1700s and 1800s for its stimulating nicotine boost and was also believed to help relieve common colds and stop snoring.

What was snuff used for in the olden days?

In the olden days Snuff was introduced by way of perfumes handkerchiefs, powdered wigs, incensed smoke, or scented snuff as it was thought to be able to block or prevent illnesses with its good odours in the nose as many diseases were attributed to ill winds.

People would carry it around in little tins like this one pictured below...

It can come in two formats - dry form for snorting and wet or moist form for chewing or dipping tobacco. The smokeless tobacco is meant to be inhaled through the nose or chewed or placed in the mouth to produce saliva.

Bridgerton Season 2 can be streamed on Netflix.

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Fans of the popular Netflix period drama will notice the Duke of Hastings is missing from season 2 of Bridgerton. Here's why Regé-Jean Page isn't returning and what he's up to now.

Many of us have been patiently counting down the days till Bridgerton season 2 drops on Netflix. Promising more society gossip, awkward love triangles and property porn - thanks to the stately homes where Bridgerton is filmed - season 1 ticked all the boxes when it came to our boxset binge-watching needs. Though sadly, there's a rather BIG element that fans will be missing in the follow-up series - a certain Simon Bassett aka the Duke of Hastings.

His and Daphne Bridgerton's love story dominated the narrative in the first series. And their intimate moments proved famous enough for actress Phoebe Dynevor to share that she wouldn't let her grandparents watch Bridgerton because of it. Bidding goodbye to their romance and Regé-Jean Page will prove to be a hard pill to swallow for some. But there's a specific reason as to why he won't be returning. We share all the need-to-know information about his departure and what the beloved British actor is up to now.

Why is the Duke of Hastings not in Bridgerton season 2?

Technically Regé-Jean Page's character the Duke of Hastings is still 'in' Bridgerton, but he won't be making any on-screen appearances. Season 2 focuses on Anthony Bridgerton's hunt for true love and so the Duke is no longer integral to the main storyline.

Bridgerton's narrator Lady Whistledown confirmed the Duke's exit in an social media announcement shared April 2, 2021. "Dear Readers, 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," the post read. Adding: "We’ll miss Simon’s presence onscreen, but he will always be a part of the Bridgerton family."

Executive producer Chris Van Dusen explained how the show would cover the Duke of Hastings' disappearance in Bridgerton season 2: "We do reference Simon," he told TVLine. "In the very first scene of Season 2, Daphne mentions she left her husband and baby at home [to be there for Eloise’s debut].

"Unfortunately, it didn’t work out in terms of Regé being a part of the second season, but he will always be Bridgerton‘s Duke," he added. "He’s not going anywhere in the world of the show. And just because we don’t see him, it doesn’t mean that he’s not there."

Why is Regé-Jean Page not returning to Bridgerton?

Thankfully Regé-Jean Page's departure has nothing to do with creative differences behind the scenes. Instead, in an interview explaining his absence, Page shared he wasn't returning because he only signed up for the one season.

“[They said] It’s a one-season arc," he told GQ last year. "It’s going to have a beginning, middle, end – give us a year. “[I thought] ‘That’s interesting,’ because then it felt like a limited series. I get to come in, I get to contribute my bit and then the Bridgerton family rolls on."

"I have nothing but excitement for ‘Bridgerton’ continuing to steam train off and conquer the globe," he added. "But there is also value in completing these arcs and sticking the landing."

Bridgerton producer Shonda Rhimes agreed that the actor's contract was only set for a year. And she doesn't hold his decision not to return against him, but rather thinks it's just the start for the 34-year-old:

"Rightfully, he said, ‘I signed up to do this one lovely story, this closed-ended storyline. I’m good!'" she told Variety. "And I don’t blame him for that. I think that he was really smart to leave the perfection as the perfection."

She added that he's also "an enormous star" now. "As I like to say, the idea that we would write Regé to stand around in the background doesn’t make any sense at all to me. What would he do? is what I like to say."

It seems the 52-year-old is just as sad as fans he won't be returning. After news broke that Page wouldn't be back in April 2021, she tweeted a tribute to the pivotal character. "Remember: the Duke is never gone. He’s just waiting to be binge watched all over again," she wrote with an accompanying photo.

Twenty minutes later Regé-Jean also tweeted in reaction to the news of his no-return. Retweeting the Bridgerton announcement tweet he added: "Pleasure and a privilege! An honour to be a member of the family - on and off screen, cast, crew and incredible fans - the love is real and will just keep growing."

Where is Regé-Jean Page now?

Though no longer in Bridgerton, Regé-Jean Page has a number of exciting projects coming up. The 34-year-old actor most recently narrated the Netflix documentary Surviving Paradise: A Family Tale. He also stars in the upcoming Dungeons & Dragons film, plus thriller The Grey Man alongside Ryan Gosling and Chris Evans.

The Hollywood Reporter also reports that Regé-Jean will produce and star in an as yet unnamed "heist thriller" film. The movie will be written and directed by Fargo creator Noah Hawley and produced by the Russo brothers' production company AGBO.

Of course there's also the James Bond rumours flying around. With Rege one name being put forward to play the new 007. Though the actor has been careful not to confirm or deny reports.

"Well, of all the things you’ll read about yourself on the internet, it’s one of the more pleasant and more flattering," Page said about the gossip. "But I take it and leave it at that, personally."

Is Daphne in season 2 of Bridgerton?

Yes, Daphne Bridgerton played by Phoebe Dynevor will be back for season 2 of Bridgerton. Lady Whistledown confirmed her return via the show's official Instagram account. "Daphne will remain a devoted wife and sister, helping her brother navigate the upcoming social season and what it has to offer," the statement read.

In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Phoebe teased fans with what they can expect from her character in Bridgerton season 2.

"Daphne has become the adult of the family," she said. "She's found what she's looking for — she's had a baby, she's a wife and mother. There's a real confidence and womanhood about her this season."

She added that the newly married Duchess has become "the rock of the siblings in this season". She added: "Daphne's leading the way in terms of knowing what love is, what it means, and what marriage means, and she's trying to pass on that knowledge to Anthony."

With regards to her on-screen husband's exit, the actress said that Page's departure was "a spanner" in the works. But again reflected that the Duke's exit wasn't something that should come as a surprise given the structure of the show.

She told the Variety Awards Circuit Podcast: "The show centers around the Bridgertons and there are eight books. And I think maybe the fans of the books were more aware of that happening than the fans of the show. I think the fans of the books know that every season is about a different sibling."

The Duchess' presence is not the only thing returning either, with the same classical riffs on pop songs expected in the Bridgerton season 2 soundtrack too.

Will the Duke return to Bridgerton in the future?

All hope is not lost for fans of the Duke of Hastings, as Regé-Jean Page has not publicly ruled out a future return to Bridgerton. The actor was asked if he would make a cameo appearance in season two of the show or any other future seasons. To which he neither confirmed nor denied.

"I couldn’t possibly tell you!" he said in an interview with GQ last September. "Isn’t there something wonderful about being surprised by what you weren’t suspecting?"

Page's coyness certainly has us excited at the prospect of a future Duke re-appearance. But we guess all will be revealed in time.

Video of the Week:

The wait is over, Bridgerton Season 2 has landed on Netflix and as fans rush to binge watch all of the eight new episodes, many are wondering who is Lady Whistledown in Bridgerton?

The hit Netflix show might not have Regé-Jean Page aka The Duke among its cast this time round but there's some new cast members to fall in love with as the second season airs from today on the popular streaming service.

While some fans want to know where is Bridgerton filmed and details of the Bridgerton season 2 soundtrack, others who missed or forgot the closing episode of season one, are wondering who is the mysterious Lady Whistledown...

Who is Lady Whistledown in Bridgerton?

Lady Whistledown in Bridgerton is Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) after her hidden identity was finally revealed in the closing moments of season one. Ever since Bridgerton debuted on screens back in 2020, mystery surrounded who Lady Whistledown was as viewers were merely introduced to her as the anonymous writer of a social pamphlet detailing the gossip of "the ton".

The discovery of the infamous gossip writer's identity only brings further heartbreak to her story as Season 2 will focus more on Lady Whistledown's character and how she operates, printing all the papers and distributing them among the community, and how she earns an income publishing her scandal sheet.

Speaking about her alter ego as Lady Whistledown, Nicola who plays Penelope, said, "She's the most powerful woman in London. Often, we perceive gossip as a very modern invention — but it really isn't. When women had no agency in their lives, this was all they were deemed to be good for. So why be ashamed to participate in it?"

"One could argue that the negative perception of gossip is a misogynistic feature to prevent women from communicating and sharing knowledge."

Who does Lady Whistledown's voice?

Lady Whistledown's voice is done by Julie Andrews in order to maintain the character's anonymity until it was revealed at the end of Season 1. Lady Whistledown is the fearless narrator of Bridgerton, ever since episode one of season one, viewers are hooked on knowing who she really is.

Spreading the gossip via her newsletter, Lady Whistledown doesn't hold back with her opinions and take on the ins and outs of the other characters - much to the surprise of the other characters who equally are kept in the dark about her identity.

Lady Whistledown's Society Papers, is the constant talk of Bridgerton's high society in Regency Era London and the column also functions as the narration for the show and very early on it was implied that Lady Whistledown belongs to the inner circle of the Bridgerton and Featheringtons but using Julie Andrews as the voiceover leads the viewer to believe that the writer is an older and especially dignified woman - with some considering it being Lady Danbury.

And while fans are fooled by her voice, the Bridgerton cast of characters are fooled by her writing.

Did the cast of Bridgerton know who Lady Whistledown was?

The cast of Bridgerton didn't know who Lady Whistledown was during filming. As the youngest Featherington daughter, Penelope is the youngest and shares a sweet friendship with Eloise who was trying very hard to discover the true identity of Lady Whistledown. They bond over their obsession and make a pact to help each other uncover the mysterious identity of the author. Eloise gathers her clues and reports back to the queen. after eliminating the possibilities one by one, Eloise finally narrows down her identity.

While Eloise is invested in spotting the clues, the other cast members appear to not be as interested in finding out who Lady Whistledown really is. Eloise is first to accuse Lady Danbury of being the author, but her guess is laughed off, prompting Eloise to dig further. Next, Eloise thinks it might be a maid or cook in her own household or possibly the Featheringtons. But she is soon pointed in the direction of Madame Delacroix when it's pointed out that anyone in the working class would be too busy for such hobbies. But she is wrong again.

And its only a matter of time before more of her identity is revealed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bs9r1UbmFAI&t=2s

What happens to Lady Whistledown in the books?

In the books Lady Whistledown's identity is kept secret until the fourth novel during Romancing Mr. Bridgerton in which the plot revolves around Colin Bridgerton and his love interest, Penelope Featherington who is revealed in the book to be Lady Whistledown. Her alter ego becomes a point of conflict in their relationship. Lady Whistledown has been a nuisance for Colin after she constantly published private details of his life before Romancing Mr Bridgerton, her identity has been a well-kept secret.

But producers of the Netflix show decided to reveal Lady Whistledown much earlier at the end of Season 1. Watch this space to see whether she will come clean with her identity in Season 3.

Bridgerton is available to stream on Netflix.

Princess Diana has a Bridgerton connection many fans might not have realised and her brother Earl Spencer certainly seems to approve of this surprising detail. 

• The Princess of Wales has been revealed to have a very unexpected connection to Netflix’s period drama Bridgerton. 
• Adapted from Julia Quinn’s bestselling novels, the show has amassed millions of fans across the world and showrunner Chris Van Dusen has revealed a very regal source of inspiration. 
• This royal news comes as Prince William carries on Princess Diana's legacy with emotional post as royal fans praise him for showing his 'personal' side.  

Princess Diana might not be the first member of The Firm that springs to mind when fans settle down to watch Bridgerton, but it seems she has a surprising connection to the hit period drama. Inspired by the bestselling Bridgerton books by Julia Quinn, according to Metro.co.uk, Netflix has now revealed that it’s their biggest original series so far and topped it’s top 10 list. Set in the Regency-Era and filled with romance, drama and intrigue, any fans looking for a potential royal link in Bridgerton might consider Prince William and Kate Middleton’s love story, or the fairy tale moment Prince Charles and Princess Diana married as possible options. 

However, it’s been revealed that whilst the late Princess of Wales does indeed have a surprising link to Bridgerton, it’s not quite what you might imagine. 

Back in December, just days after Bridgerton season 1 landed on Netflix, showrunner Chris Van Dusen took to Twitter to share an exciting new insight.

He declared, ‘The interior of Bridgerton House was inspired by my visit to Althorp when I was developing the show.  Elegance. Opulence. And that #staircase. #Bridgerton’. 

The magnificent Althorp House in Northamptonshire was Diana’s childhood home and it’s here that her niece Lady Amelia Spencer reportedly plans to marry. It’s also the current residence of Lady Amelia’s father and Princess Diana’s brother, Earl Spencer. 

And it seems that Charles Spencer is just as excited as fans likely were about this news, as he took to Twitter this week upon learning about Chris’ earlier revelation. 

Re-sharing the showrunner’s exciting news, Charles wrote, ‘Just seen this, below - such a compliment to those of my family who went before me, making @AlthorpHouse what it still is today. #bridgerton’. 

Earl Spencer grew up here with Diana and he no doubt has many happy family memories of their years there together.

His reaction to the revelation that the titular Bridgerton family’s home, Bridgerton House, was in part inspired by the Spencer family's own magnificent home is a lovely reflection of Charles' love for this historic residence. 

Princess Diana’s brother often shares sneak peaks at Althorp House with fans on social media, including of the spectacular staircase mentioned by Chris. Earlier this year he also shared a snap of a rare family portrait, bearing a startling resemblance to a royal relative. 

With Bridgerton series 2 currently filming, who knows if Althorp House or any royal residences could further inspire the show’s sets?  

Phoebe Dynevor reveals what it’s like watching Netflix's hit series Bridgerton with her family...

Netflix’s brilliant series Bridgerton has got everyone talking. Based on the novels of US author Julia Quinn, it’s set in the competitive world of Regency London and has been applauded for its diversity of cast. It’s also breaking boundaries with its steamy sex scenes, some of which are even said to have made their way onto adult websites – something the streaming platform is said to have battled to stop. But, without a doubt, one of the biggest stars to emerge is Phoebe Dynevor.

The 25-year-old plays Daphne Bridgerton, a girl from one of London’s most powerful families, who’s described as ‘flawless’ by Queen Charlotte and is set on finding a husband as soon as possible during ‘the season’, a time of year when the city’s finest gather at a series of fashionable parties. Female empowerment is central to the story, as Daphne slowly has her sexual awakening.

The very first scene Phoebe filmed for the hit series was a sex scene with the inimitable Regé-Jean Page – who plays Daphne’s love interest, the Duke of Hastings. But she wasn’t fazed, as there were intimacy coordinators on set who’d choreographed and rehearsed every sex scene with the couple prior to filming.

‘I’ve done sex scenes in the past and it’s just, “Action! Do whatever you want to do.” You feel very out of control,’ she explains.

‘But we had intimacy coordinators, so we’d go through every single scene. We rehearsed everything like a fight scene, so I knew exactly where Regé was going to put his hand and at what point. It really frees you up, because there isn’t that thing of, “Oh, what’s he going to do now?”’

In fact, Phoebe admits the scenes that were hardest to film were the ones where she was on her own, as there was ‘no one to vibe off’.

While Netflix projected that Bridgerton’s viewing figures would hit 63 million households within 28 days, Phoebe’s grandparents and brother won’t be seeing her in her starring role, as she doesn’t want them watching.

‘I’m happy for Mum and Dad to see it, because they know the industry, they know how hard I worked and how much it meant to me, getting that role,’ says Phoebe, whose mum Sally stars in Coronation Street and whose dad, Tim, is a writer for Emmerdale.

Adding, ‘But not my grandparents. And with my younger brother… Well, it’s awkward.’

‘I forgot to tell my family about the sex scenes!’

If the sex scenes in Bridgerton have got you a little hot under the collar, then spare a thought for Regé-Jean Page’s cousin, who he failed to warn…

The actor, who plays the very dashing duke, Simon Basset, told most of his family about his raunchy scenes, but he forgot one member.

‘We missed one of my cousins,’ he laughed. ‘She sent me a message that was like, “I had to make so many tactical cups of tea. I came back, and you were still going, so I had to go and put the kettle back on!”’

Regé-Jean, who has gained 2 million Instagram followers since the release of Bridgerton, has also addressed the news that he may be the next James Bond, after Ladbrokes slashed his odds from 40/1 to 16/1.

He coyly said, ‘I think the internet thinks a lot of things and that’s one of the more pleasant ones, so I’m pleased as far as that goes.’

Facts you didn’t know about Bridgerton

1 The show had 7,500 costume pieces

Bridgerton had its own costume house, with a massive wardrobe made up of thousands of original, handmade pieces. Clothing and jewellery came from countries all over the world, including Spain and Italy. Phoebe Dynevor alone had 104 costume changes across eight episodes.

2 Boxer Will Mondrich was based on a real fighter

Actor Martins Imhangbe, who played Simon’s friend and boxer Will Mondrich, revealed that his character was based on the real 19th-century fighter Bill Richmond, who was dubbed ‘Britain’s first Black sports star’ by History Extra.

3 Eloise and Penelope really ARE best friends

Eloise and Penelope’s friendship is one of the things we love most about Bridgerton and it turns out the actors who play them, Claudia Jessie and Nicola Coughlan, are just as close off screen. Bridgerton author Julia said, ‘They became good friends in real life, and you could see that [on screen].’

4 The cast has a WhatsApp group

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the cast hasn’t been able to meet up much since wrapping on filming. But Jonathan Bailey, who plays Anthony, reassured fans there’s a Zoom and WhatsApp group. He added, ‘Me and Phoebe have grown incredibly close and the bros, the two Lukes [Newton and Thompson], are really close as well.’