Jonathan Bailey’s Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

As a dedicated admirer of the Bridgerton series, I must say that the creators have done an exceptional job in adapting Julia Quinn’s delightful novels for the screen. Each season offers a fresh take on the beloved characters and storylines, while still maintaining the essence of the books.


Looks like one iconic member of the ton will be returning to Bridgerton.

As an ardent admirer, I can hardly contain my excitement! With Jonathan Bailey’s Anthony Bridgerton setting sail for India alongside his wife Kate (Simone Ashley) at the climax of season three, it was a relief to learn that he will grace our screens once more in season four. And what a delightful prospect it is to witness Luke Thompson’s Benedict Bridgerton embark on a romantic journey!

On Good Morning America on Aug. 16, he expressed that, given his seniority as the elder sibling, he would be present to encourage and guide the younger ones throughout their journey.

The actor from “Wicked” mentioned that he’s unsure about the direction his character might take in season four, but he’s eagerly anticipating reading the script and has set aside a few weeks in his calendar to resume work.

And Jonathan could not be more thrilled about returning to the series that he knows is so special.

In my view, what truly makes “Bridgerton” stand out is its exploration of the numerous paths one can take to experience love, a journey that the series will delve into deeply.

Regarding his thoughts on Luke handling the lead role, Jonathan is confident that he will excel remarkably well.

He’s especially looking forward to watching how Luke (character Benedict) reacts under pressure, as he acknowledges that the second Bridgerton sibling can be both feisty and entertaining. However, Jonathan also points out that Benedict is brimming with curiosity and delight.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

The 36-year-old commented, “He’s the core of our family.” He continued, “I think it will be fantastic; I can hardly wait.”

As fans eagerly await details on the air date for season four, they received exciting news: Yerin Ha has been chosen to play Benedict’s romantic interest, Sophie Beckett, in the forthcoming season.

The third novel by Julia Quinn, titled “An Offer From a Gentleman,” tells the story of Sophie, who, much like Cinderella, becomes a servant to her late father’s wife and stepsisters after his demise, since she is an illegitimate daughter of an earl.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

At his mother’s masquerade gathering, he encounters a lady adorned in silver, who turns out to be Sophie. They part ways before reuniting after a span of two years, during which Benedict remains oblivious that the mystery woman he has long admired is none other than Sophie.

On July 23rd, Netflix announced that season four would center around the character of Luke. In their announcement, they mentioned, “Although both his older and younger brothers are happily married, Benedict is reluctant to settle down. This changes when he encounters an enchanting Lady in Silver at his mother’s masquerade ball.”

While eagerly anticipating season four, why not revisit season three by brushing up on all the modifications made when moving from the books to the screen?

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

In Netflix’s adaptation, Penelope Featherington, portrayed by Nicola Coughlan, transforms into our leading character. At the tender age of 19, she feels it’s the perfect moment for a complete makeover, aiming to leave behind her shy demeanor and find a suitable partner. To accomplish this, she discards the predominant yellows and oranges she’s worn throughout seasons one and two, instead choosing more complementary gowns and colors, often donning the renowned Bridgerton blue. Penelope also seeks advice from Colin Bridgerton, played by Luke Newton, who she has harbored feelings for over many years, on enhancing her flirting abilities.

In the story “Romancing Mister Bridgerton,” Penelope, who is 28 years old, finds herself in a different situation compared to others due to its setting in 1824, ten years after Anthony Bridgerton married Kate Sharma. Unlike other characters, Penelope is often referred to as an “old maid” and her change in fashion is primarily driven by her mother finally giving her space when she doesn’t secure a husband. Although Penelope feels trapped with her mother for life, this circumstance does not drive her to seek a husband immediately. Instead, it seems that Penelope focuses on other aspects of her life.

“One significant difference is that readers initially don’t know Lady Whistledown, the town gossip, is actually hiding in plain sight until halfway through the fourth book; on the other hand, Netflix viewers learned about this secret right at the start of season one.”

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

In the third season, Colin is the charming newcomer we meet, and similar to how his character’s development differs from the book version, the progression of the TV Colin varies from the book Colin as well.

In the novel, he is considerably older, around 33 years, and has been journeying extensively for quite some time as opposed to just a few months in the series. This rarely keeps him at home. Additionally, he grapples with discovering his purpose, an issue that seems less pressing on the show.

Just as with a series on Netflix, his feelings for Penelope gradually intensify throughout the book. He spends a significant amount of time admiring her kindness, humor, and beauty – traits that astonish him because they were previously unnoticed by him and the rest of society.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

In both the book and the show, emotions really come to a head for Colin and Penelope when she accidentally on purpose reads his travel diaries. Book Pen was visiting the Bridgertons because she’s still best friends with Eloise Bridgerton (Claudia Jessie), while show Pen was at their house in episode two for private flirting lessons with Colin.

In both versions, Colin cuts his hand, although in the book it’s on a letter opener and in the show it’s because of a broken candle holder.

Regardless, it’s as she is wrapping his hand that Colin really notices Penelope.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

In the story or performance, Polin’s initial kiss occurs when Penelope boldly requests it, stating that she would rather have lived a life without being kissed if he declined.

In the final moments of episode two, following the disclosure that Penelope sought Colin’s aid in securing a potential partner, we see this event unfold on our television screens.

In the novel, the kiss takes place in the Featherington parlor, where Colin goes to console Penelope about her belief that his sister Eloise might be Lady Whistledown (whose voice is provided by Julie Andrews).

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

Indeed, in both the original novels and their film adaptations, Colin and Penelope share their second kiss within a carriage, right before he finally pops the question.

In the finale of episode four, Netflix opted to have the romantic moment – a kiss and a proposal – transpire inside the Featherington carriage. This significant event took place immediately following Colin’s actions that dashed Penelope’s prospects with Lord Debling (Sam Phillips)).

As a die-hard fan, it’s still under wraps to him that she is none other than Lady Whistledown – the Regency period’s equivalent of DeuxMoi. Intriguingly enough, episode one culminates with Colin venting his spleen towards the anonymous Lady Whistledown, lambasting her for penning unflattering comments about his altered demeanor following his travels. He even vows to unmask and bring ruin upon whoever she truly is, little does he know that his target is none other than his own family member!

In the novel, Polin’s romantic encounter and engagement take place inside Colin’s coach following his pursuit of Penelope into town. After discovering her astonishing secret – that she is none other than Lady Whistledown – Colin enters their matrimony with complete knowledge of her dual existence.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

Francesca Bridgerton (Hannah Dodd) is occasionally seen as the overlooked Bridgerton child, not due to a lack of affection from her family, but because – just like she portrays in the series – the sixth Bridgerton sibling tends to favor tranquility and serenity.

In the book series, it’s briefly mentioned that Francesca met her husband seven years prior to where Penelope and Colin’s story begins. However, Shonda Rhimes and the production team have chosen to intertwine some of the book’s plotlines for Francesca, Colin, Benedict Bridgerton (played by Luke Thompson), and their respective love stories in season three, leading us to…

In the captivating TV series, I found myself utterly enthralled as Golda Rosheuvel’s radiant portrayal of Queen Charlotte earned her the title of the season’s “diamond.” The intrigue deepened as both Lord Samadani, played by David Mumeni, and my heart’s longing, John Stirling, Earl of Kilmartin, portrayed by Victor Alli, sought her hand. Regrettably, Queen Charlotte is a character exclusive to the screen, meaning no royal anointment of a “diamond” could ever grace the pages of the books.

Fortunately for her, she and John discover their perfect match in each other and decide on a cozy, home-based wedding, an event that book readers miss out on. The duo later relocate to Scotland, where their tale unfolds further. As for the details of Francesca’s future, we’ll keep those under wraps, but if you’re intrigued by spoilers, her story is delved into more deeply in the sixth Bridgerton novel titled “When He Was Wicked”.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

People who have only watched the series might find it surprising to discover that by the time Colin and Penelope become a couple in the books, Benedict has been married for seven years and is an accomplished artist (as detailed in book three, An Offer from a Gentleman, which Netflix chose to omit in favor of book four, chronicling his love story instead).

In the series, he continues his journey of self-discovery as the younger Bridgerton brother, opting out of matrimony and instead pursuing relationships with the spirited widow, Lady Tilley Arnold (Hannah New), and her companion Paul Suarez (Lucas Aurelio). The audience eagerly awaits to follow his storyline in the possible fourth season.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

In the series, Eloise no longer maintains a friendship with Penelope because she discovered that Pen is actually Lady Whistledown. Instead, her closest friend has become Cressida Cowper, known as the ton’s biggest bully. When news breaks about Colin and Penelope’s engagement, Eloise feels hurt, believing Pen exploited their friendship for gaining access to Colin. However, by the end of the season, she realizes how much she yearns for Penelope’s companionship, and the two manage to reconcile. (Jessica Madsen plays Cressida Cowper in this context.)

In the novel Eloise, similar to Penelope in age (both being 28), there’s a contrast as Eloise has rejected six marriage proposals, unlike her friend who is a double agent. Upon discovering about Colin and Penelope, Eloise expresses nothing but joy for their relationship. Throughout Romancing Mister Bridgerton, there are subtle hints towards Eloise’s future that are further explored in book five, titled To Sir Phillip, With Love.

Speaking of Cressida, although the series portrays her as unmarried, in the book she’s a widow who continues to cause trouble for Colin and Penelope. I’ll delve deeper into her character shortly.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

Lord Debling, a man deeply captivated by nature, has become this season’s most sought-after eligible bachelor – and he has caught Cressida Cowper’s attention. However, it is essential to note that he is primarily a character designed for the show, serving as a catalyst to help Penelope emerge from her shell. More significantly, his role is crucial in bringing Colin and Penelope closer together.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

It turns out that while it was exciting to see Colin rescue Penelope (thanks to a helping hand from Lord Debling), the entire balloon incident, along with the rather uncomfortable discussion on birds, were merely fictional elements added for dramatic effect in the series.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

Among the significant shifts in the narrative for the Featheringtons is the absence of Felicity, their fourth daughter and Penelope’s dearest sister, who was previously close friends with Hyacinth Bridgerton, now portrayed as Florence Hunt.

In the novels, Mrs. Featherington (Polly Walker) sees Felicity as her final opportunity for a prestigious match among her daughters, even proposing that she marry Colin. The Featherington family, on the other hand, is managing to navigate through financial difficulties, thanks to Penelope secretly using funds from Whistledown to support her family, with assistance from their solicitor who, intriguingly, had previously encouraged her to write her column and facilitated all necessary arrangements with the publisher and a bank account.

Regarding sisters Prudence (Bessie Carter) and Phillippa (Harriet Cains), on the television series, their storyline revolves around a competition to have a baby boy first, thereby continuing the Featherington line. However, in the books, they are less engaged and married to entirely different characters.

As a lifestyle guide, I find it intriguing to share that in the television adaptation, I am wedded to James Phoon, who takes on the role once filled by Robert Huxley in the novels. On the other hand, Phillippa ties the knot with Lorn Macdonald in season three instead of Nigel Berbrooke, a character you might recall as one of Daphne’s less than refined suitors from the first season.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

In both the novel and the series, Violet Bridgerton, portrayed by Ruth Gemmell, is preoccupied with arranging marriages for her unmarried offspring. The book’s Violet has relocated from the Bridgerton residence, now residing at a place affectionately referred to as Number Five by the family (since they couldn’t think of a more fitting name). Although Julia Quinn never delves into Violet’s life post-children marriage, the third season subtly suggests a potential romantic interest for Violet Bridgerton in Lord Marcus, brother of Lady Danbury (Adjoa Andoh), who is not present in the original books, played by Daniel Francis.

In the fourth novel of Bridgerton, characters Hyacinth and Gregory Tilston (previously unnamed) are significantly older than portrayed in the show. By the time of the story, Hyacinth is participating in her debut season and Gregory has completed his university studies, while in the series they remain minor characters as their elder siblings take center stage. However, future seasons may delve deeper into their lives, as Hyacinth’s love story unfolds in book seven, titled “It’s in His Kiss,” and Gregory’s is featured in book eight, “On the Way to the Wedding.”

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

In the book, after Colin proposes, they personally visit the Featherington household to announce their engagement. This leads to a comical scene where Mrs. Featherington initially believes Colin is there for Felicity. As Colin continues to express his intentions to marry Penelope and praise her, this leaves Penelope feeling delighted (and obviously, pleasantly surprised).

In the television series, the duo initially head to the Bridgerton residence, where everyone is overjoyed – except for Eloise, who is displeased because Penelope has yet to inform Colin about her secret identity as Lady Whistledown.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

The book provides limited details about Colin and Penelope’s wedding, merely mentioning it was a modest event and the couple managed to shift the date forward by several weeks following Colin’s not-so-subtle hints to Lady Bridgerton and Lady Featherington regarding his intimacy with Penelope.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

In the novel “Romancing Mr. Bridgerton,” Colin discovers Penelope’s hidden truth before proposing to her. Despite his initial anger over her secrecy, he admires and feels a touch of envy for her extraordinary accomplishments. However, his concern about her writing escalates, reaching a climax when an article about Cressida not being Whistledown is published during their engagement ball. Yet, Colin from the book eventually reconciles with Penelope’s secret and even takes part in assisting her to disclose it (more details soon).

It’s clear that Colin struggles to accept that he adores Penelope, yet harbors intense dislike towards Lady Whistledown. To put it another way, his feelings for them are quite conflicting. As a result, the second half of the season sees them spending considerable time apart, as Colin wrestles with these complex emotions.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

In the novel “Romancing Mister Bridgerton,” Lady Danbury is on a mission to uncover the identity of Lady Whistledown and even puts forth a £1,000 bounty for any information leading to her discovery. In the series adaptation, it’s Queen Charlotte who presents the reward, offering a substantial £5,000 instead.

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I find myself often reminiscing about the captivating tale of ‘Bridgerton’. In this narrative, prior to Penelope’s unveiling, the character Cressida steps forward, feigning as Lady Whistledown – all in pursuit of the enticing reward. You see, Cressida, much like many of us, found herself in a financial predicament following her husband’s departure. In her desperation to secure some stability, she saw an opportunity in the prize money associated with the identity of Lady Whistledown.

Regarding character Cressida, her situation differs from others. Her parents intend to marry her to an older nobleman. Instead of accepting this fate, she hopes that revealing herself as Whistledown will earn her the £5,000, allowing her to escape this arranged marriage.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

As a dedicated follower, I’ve noticed that the way Penelope’s secret unfolds differs significantly between the book and the screen adaptation. In both versions, Cressida manages to uncover the truth about Penelope and uses it as leverage to extort £10,000 from her, threatening to reveal the secret to all if Penelope refuses. In the novel, Cressida deduces that it’s Penelope due to a distinctive phrase Penelope uses in everyday life, which mirrors the same phrase she employs in her Whistledown column criticizing Cressida as the author. On the other hand, in the show, Cressida learns about Penelope’s secret from an apprentice at a printing shop.

However, in the story, it’s not explicitly clear who reveals this information to the Ton. Instead, Colin takes the stage at his sister Daphne and brother-in-law Simon’s grand ball and shares the news. He dramatically expresses his love for his wife before unveiling Penelope’s true identity. As planned, both Anthony and Simon swiftly voice their support for Penelope, making it challenging for the guests to maintain their anger towards her.

In the television program, instead, Penelope takes the initiative. She extends an invitation to Queen Charlotte for her sisters’ dance event, then presents her case publicly to the high society, hoping the Queen would lend her support. Remarkably, her plan succeeds, as the Queen graciously favors her.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

In the previous season, the eldest Bridgerton sibling Anthony and his wife Kate were the focus, as their romantic tale unfolded, inspired by the novel “The Viscount Who Loved Me“. As we move into season three, the main difference between the events of book four and the upcoming series is that in the storyline, they are now newlyweds, residing with Anthony’s mother at the Bridgerton residence, and anticipating their first child together. In contrast, in the books, they have been married for a decade already.

The newlywed couple finds themselves deeply infatuated with one another, a sentiment that resonates equally well within the television series and the written narrative.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

In the third season, the characters of Will Mondrich (played by Martins Imhangbe) and his wife Alice Mondrich (Emma Naomi) do not make an appearance in the books, but they have a captivating plotline instead. This includes their integration into high society and Will’s decision to sell his club as a way of fitting in with the upper class.

Jonathan Bailey's Fate on Bridgerton Season 4 Revealed

Readers of the series might find it astonishing to discover that book four marks the last instance where Lady Whistledown’s voice is heard in the Bridgerton series. Upon unveiling her true identity, Penelope feels it’s time to step down from her role as Whistledown, having written under this alias for nearly 12 years, and thus she chooses to retire.

On the show, however, Penelope continues writing, but does so under her own name.

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2024-08-17 03:50