Netflix Announces Bridgerton Season 5 Featuring First Lesbian Romance
Netflix confirmed on March 24, 2026 that Bridgerton Season 5 is now in production. Filming has begun and eight episodes have been commissioned. The new run will feature the series’ first lesbian romance between two established characters.
Production update
Cameras are rolling on the next instalment. The streamer issued a press release announcing the start of production.
Producers ordered eight episodes for the upcoming season. The show resumes after season four’s recent release.
Plot and characters
The story will centre on Francesca Stirling, played by Hannah Dodd. Francesca is coping with the death of her husband, John.
Two years after that loss, Francesca considers reentering the marriage market for practical reasons. Her journey becomes complicated when Michaela, John’s cousin, returns to London to manage the Kilmartin estate.
Michaela is portrayed by Masali Baduza. The two women move from friendship to a growing romantic tension.
Character notes
Francesca is described as introverted and reserved. She was raised as the middle child of the Bridgerton family and holds the title Countess of Kilmartin.
Michaela appears outwardly cheerful but carries private vulnerabilities. Those traits create emotional conflict as the relationship develops.
Cast and creative team comments
Hannah Dodd highlighted the importance of portraying queer love in period drama. She noted such stories have often been excluded from the genre.
Masali Baduza praised showrunner Jess Bromwell for guiding the cast. She said the team aims to depict a realistic sapphic romance with a hopeful outcome.
Bromwell described centring an entire season on a same-gender relationship as a significant step for the series.
Context and reaction
Season four ended with several dramatic turns, including Francesca’s bereavement. Sophie and Benedict’s marriage also concluded last season.
Fans and critics have already reacted to the announcement. The move represents a notable shift for the hit period drama.
- Announcement date: March 24, 2026.
- Episodes commissioned: Eight for season five.
- Lead cast: Hannah Dodd (Francesca) and Masali Baduza (Michaela).
- Creative lead: Showrunner Jess Bromwell.
Filmogaz.com will follow production and release updates. We will report new casting and scheduling information as it becomes available.
