On Christmas Day of 2020, the newest Shondaland show Bridgerton was released to Netflix. The show was created by Chris Van Dusen, who is a previous writer for well-known Shonda Rhimes shows, Scandal and Grey’s Anatomy. This is Rhime’s first scripted product to be released after her new deal with Netflix. This is a show created for a more mature audience.

     Bridgerton is curated around the first of the eight book series Regency: romance novels by Julia Quinn. The show takes place in the early 19th century and follows the eight siblings of the Bridgerton family. The family is composed of four boys and four girls.

     The first season consists of eight episodes following the life of the eldest Briderton daughter, Daphne (Phoebe Dynevor), as she begins her journey in the competitive marriage market. 

     This marriage market involves a series of parties, balls and dances where young men and women are introduced to each other, who later call on their favorites at home to be examined by their families. 

     Daphne is one of the most eligible women because she gained the favor of Queen Charlotte (Golda Rosheuvel), which awarded her with much chatter from the town. After a couple weeks pass Daphne fears that her value on the market is diminishing so she comes up with an alternate plan which introduces us to the beloved duke named Simon (Rege-Jean Page).

     Simon decided to get involved with Daphne because he did not want to get married and needed a way to fend off the women’s families that are begging for his attention. Of course like true drama T.V. fashion these two characters did not mean to have such a deep connection.

     Daphne and Simon begin their relationship as friends but it turns into a love affair like no other. There are so many ups and downs in their relationship, but you’ll just have to watch the show to find them out.

     Along with the Bridgerton family there is also the Featheringtons. Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) is good friends with Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton). She loves him from a distance and he has no idea how she feels even though it is blatantly obvious.

     The Featheringtons have also taken in Marina (Ruby Barker) who is a young relative. Marina has a past of her own that ultimately brings unintended shame to the Featherington family.

     All of the drama that goes on in the town is shared upon mystery by an unidentified writer “Lady Whistledown.” The Whistledown publication is a genius idea because it allows the plot to accelerate while adding another mystery to the show. Lady Whistledown’s mystery is what keeps the show running and provides adding interest. Whistledown is voiced by award winning actress, Julie Andrews.

     Eight episodes does not seem like a lot for usual Netflix shows, but these episodes are jam packed with drama and information. Every episode is worth the watch and leaves you wanting more. 

     Rotten Tomatoes rates Bridgerton 89% on their Tomatometer and 81% Audience Score. They describe the show as a soapy drama with sumptuous design and a sterling cast which makes Bridgerton a delightful treat. I couldn’t agree more.

     The show is the most watched series in Netflix history. Bridgertons crew was praised for participating in a colorblind casting meaning they could cast without taking into consideration a person’s skin color. They just envisioned the auditionee for their overall performance.

     Netflix announced on Jan. 21, “Prepare for another social season,” which hints that there will be a season two. Overall, Bridgerton is an enticing show that will transport you back to 19th century London.