This article contains spoilers for Bridgerton season 3 and Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton books.
Summary
In the finale ofBridgertonseason 3, the three eldest Bridgerton siblings set off on new storylines, but the period drama has not confirmed which of them will lead season 4. Theories aboutBridgertonseason 4’s star typically revolve around Benedict, Eloise, or Francesca. Going byJulia Quinn’sBridgertonbooks, Benedict should have starred in season 3, which makes his story a good choice for season 4. However, Eloise’s story traditionally comes after Colin’s, and Francesca became surprisingly significant in season 3. Based onBridgertonseason 3’s ending, it could be any of them.
The end ofBridgertonseason 3 dropped several hints about whereBridgertonseason 4is headed.Francesca’s story kicked into high gearas she set off for Scotland with her new husband, John, and his cousin, Michaela. Eloise’s plot took an unexpected turn when she decided to accompany Francesca to Scotland with the intention of seeing the world. Then, as per usual, Benedict was left drifting, but an exciting change seemed to be heading his way.
10 Best Bridgerton Season 3 Moments That Come Directly From The Book
Although differing greatly in its side characters' stories, Bridgerton season 3 had many scenes identically mirroring Romancing Mr. Bridgerton’s.
Bridgerton Season 3’s Ending Sets Up 2 Possible Stars For Season 4
This section contains spoilers for Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton books, “An Offer From a Gentleman” and “When He Was Wicked"It seems most likely thatFrancesca or Benedict will be the star ofBridgertonseason 4. In terms of story, Francesca has the most going on out of the three oldest and unwed Bridgertons. In season 3, she met John Kilmartin, married him, and is now going to live at his estate in Scotland, along with his charming cousin. All of this perfectly sets up Francesca’s romance. In Julia Quinn’sWhen He Was Wicked,Francesca Bridgerton’s marriage to Johnends when he dies unexpectedly. After that, her true love story with Michael, now known as Michaela, begins.
Despite these solid moves toward Francesca’s story, Benedict is also still in the running as season 4’s star. DuringBridgertonseason 3’s finale, Benedict and Eloise chat on the Bridgerton swings, and Benedict reveals that his next life lesson might change him completely. This “lesson” could almost certainly be his love story. Later, thebiggest hint about Benedict’s story is dropped when he mentions Lady Bridgerton’s masquerade ballthe following spring. In toAn Offer from a Gentleman, this is where he will first meet his future wife, Sophie.
Why Benedict Should Be The Star Of Season 4
Benedict Needs Direction
Although Francesca’s love story is set up and ready to go, Benedict should beBridgertonseason 4’s main character. Benedict already lost his starring role to Colin in season 3, so losing it again to Francesca would be disappointing. Plus, it would be strange forBridgertonto continue pushing off his story. Benedict is also in desperate need of some direction. Although Lady Arnold and her lover Paul were a fun side plot in season 3,Benedict has been lacking purpose for far too long. As he noted in the season 3 finale, he needs a major change.
Overall, viewers need to get to know Francesca more before being able to root for her romance.
Benedict should also be season 4’s star because Francesca simply feels too new.Bridgertonseason 3 is the first time audiences have gotten to know Francescasince she was away in season 1 and had no plot in season 2. Therefore, to see her become the star so quickly might feel jarring. It also doesn’t help that she was recast in season 3. Overall, viewers need to get to know Francesca more before being able to root for her romance. If Benedict leadsBridgertonseason 4, then there will be plenty of time to fall in love with her.
Could Eloise & Francesca’s Story Be A Spin-Off?
Eloise & Francesca Will Have A Story Of Their Own
In the case that Francesca does not become the star ofBridgertonseason 4, there is potential for aBridgertonspinoff. Now that Francesca and Eloise are away in Scotland, audiences may see much less of them inBridgerton. A way to curb this isif Netflix creates aBridgertonspinoff based on Eloise and Francesca’stravels. By giving them a whole series, audiences could see more of Eloise’s search for knowledge and Francesca’s complex relationship with John and Michaela. This spinoff could help set up the dynamics that will become so important in Francesca’s season.
Though Francesca and Eloise’s time in Scotland could be aBridgertonspinoff, it seems unlikely that this will happen. In reality,Bridgertonseason 4 will probably make time each episode to check inon the sisters. Viewers won’t get to see as much, but their story will still be told. This is also assuming that Francesca will not be the star ofBridgertonseason 4, which she very well could be. At this point, anything could happen in the world ofBridgerton.
The Duke and I
On the Way to the Wedding
Bridgerton
Cast
Bridgerton, released on August 02, 2025, is set in Regency-era England and follows the lives of the influential Bridgerton family. The series explores themes of wealth, lust, and betrayal, portraying societal dynamics through a blend of romance and intrigue.
