Dearest Gentle Reader, we have some updates on the beloved Bridgerton series from the woman whose mind started it all. Julia Quinn, author of the original book series, spoke with US Weekly about the franchise built on her works and what’s to come. Quinn revealed that “I know who is scheduled next,” though no official confirmation has come down for what’s to come after the conclusion of Bridgerton Season 4. The series was renewed for a fifth and sixth season ahead of the Season 4 premiere, which is officially slated for 2026. Season 4 will follow Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson) and Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha) in a Cinderella-esque season.
With the series being renewed, many fans speculate based on book order that Seasons 5 & 6 will follow Eloise Bridgerton (Claudia Jessie) and Francesca Bridgerton (Hannah Dodd) respectively, but Quinn says “It could always change, like, [the order] has changed in the past.” Season 3 and Season 4 were flipped from their book order, with Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) and Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) being the leads for Season 3, while their book is book four Romancing Mister Bridgerton. Now, the season based on book 3, An Offer From a Gentleman, will be the focus of Season 4 with Benedict and Sophie.
If It Stays in Book Order, Who Will Lead Seasons 5 & 6 of ‘Bridgerton?
Let’s say that they decide to adapt Seasons 5 and 6 from books 5 and 6 respectively. The books they’d be adapting would be To Sir Phillip With Love and When He Was Wicked. Each book follows one of the eight Bridgerton siblings falling in love and living happily ever after. In book 5, it’s Eloise, exchanging letters with Sir Phillip Crane before stealing away to his estate. If the name Sir Phillip Crane sounds familiar, that’s because he was also the man that Marina Thompson (Ruby Barker) married after becoming pregnant by Phillip’s brother out of wedlock. By the time Book 5 takes place, Marina has since passed, leaving Phillip a widower to two young children.
In Book 6, the focus is on Francesca, with her second chance at love. One of the bigger changes from the books to the show that’s already been established is that it’s Michael Stirling in the books, and it’s Michaela in the show, played by Masali Baduza. Should the show continue to be renewed for 7th and 8th seasons, Quinn tells US Weekly, “My hope is that all the siblings will eventually take the lead because we love them [all]. That was kind of the whole point of the books is that you’ve got these eight separate stories, but they’re all connected.” You can watch the first three seasons of Bridgerton now on Netflix. Stay with Collider for the latest updates.
Introduction – A World Where Love and Logic Don’t Always Align
Let’s be honest — Bridgerton fans are obsessed. Whether it’s the steamy romances, stunning regency fashion, or the perfectly plotted love arcs, viewers are completely hooked. But just when fans thought they knew what to expect based on Julia Quinn’s beloved book series, everything might shift again.
Yep, you read that right.
In a recent interview, Bridgerton author Julia Quinn hinted that the Netflix adaptation may not stick to the chronological book order going forward. “It could always change,” she said — and now the fandom is buzzing with speculation.
Let’s break down what this revelation means for future seasons and why this shift might not be such a bad thing after all.
Who Is Julia Quinn and Why Her Words Matter
The Woman Behind the Bridgerton Empire
Julia Quinn is the author of the original Bridgerton novels — eight in total, each following one Bridgerton sibling’s journey to find love. Her books have sold millions of copies worldwide and became the foundation for Shonda Rhimes’ hit Netflix series.
Her Voice Still Shapes the Adaptation
Although the show takes creative liberties (as most adaptations do), Quinn remains closely involved. So, when she says the book-to-series order isn’t locked in — fans and producers both listen.
What Was the Original Bridgerton Book Order?
A Quick Rundown of the Novels
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The Duke and I – Daphne
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The Viscount Who Loved Me – Anthony
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An Offer From a Gentleman – Benedict
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Romancing Mister Bridgerton – Colin
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To Sir Phillip, With Love – Eloise
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When He Was Wicked – Francesca
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It’s In His Kiss – Hyacinth
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On the Way to the Wedding – Gregory
Each book follows a different sibling, roughly in order of their age — and emotional readiness.
How Has Netflix Deviated So Far?
Season 1 & 2 Were Book-Accurate (More or Less)
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Season 1 focused on Daphne (Book 1)
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Season 2 spotlighted Anthony (Book 2)
Seems straightforward, right?
Season 3 Broke the Pattern
Instead of focusing on Benedict (Book 3), Season 3 jumps ahead to Romancing Mister Bridgerton — Colin’s story, Book 4.
This move stirred a lot of chatter. Some fans loved it. Others, especially the “Benedict Hive,” felt a bit sidelined.
Why Netflix Changed the Order in the First Place
Timing and Chemistry Matter
Shonda Rhimes and showrunner Jess Brownell have both said the decision to skip ahead was driven by storytelling — not favoritism. Colin and Penelope’s relationship had been building since Season 1, making it ripe for a Season 3 payoff.
Benedict’s Story Needed Room to Breathe
Benedict’s tale is whimsical, dreamy, and artistically inclined. The creative team likely wanted more time to craft that narrative in a way that wouldn’t feel rushed or out of sync with the overall tone.
Julia Quinn’s Take – “It Could Always Change”
The Meaning Behind the Quote
In a recent interview, Julia Quinn acknowledged the shift and said something that really got fans talking:
“There’s always a plan. But it could always change.”
That one line turned the fandom upside down. It’s confirmation that the order isn’t set in stone — and it might change again in future seasons.
A Strategic Statement or a Warning?
Was she teasing future shake-ups? Or managing expectations? Either way, it’s clear: flexibility is the name of the game.
How This Impacts Future Bridgerton Seasons
Francesca Might Leapfrog Again
Francesca’s story, When He Was Wicked, is intense and heart-wrenching. But could her tale come before Benedict or Eloise? Quinn’s statement leaves the door wide open.
Eloise and Phillip — Will They Wait That Long?
Given Eloise’s rebellious, opinionated nature, many fans are eager for her arc. But her story involves a major time gap — and Netflix might not want to wait several seasons.
Why a Flexible Order Might Be a Good Thing
Building Better Emotional Arcs
By not sticking rigidly to the books, the series allows itself space to develop characters organically. If a couple’s chemistry is peaking, why not seize the moment?
Keeping Viewers Guessing
In a world full of spoilers, unpredictability is gold. Changing the order keeps longtime fans on their toes — and it draws in viewers who like surprises.
What Fans Are Saying Online
Reddit Is Divided
Some say, “Stick to the books!” Others argue, “Do what serves the story.” The split is real — but everyone’s watching closely.
JusticeForBenedict Trends Again
After the Season 3 lineup reveal, Benedict fans revived this hashtag. And now, with Quinn’s recent comment, they’re both hopeful and wary.
Netflix’s Strategy – Story Over Structure
Prioritizing Emotional Payoff
The Netflix model thrives on bingeability and emotional highs. Adapting stories out of order can heighten suspense, deepen backstories, and attract wider audiences.
The Shondaland Effect
Shonda Rhimes is known for her bold, character-driven storytelling. So it’s no surprise that she’s reordering the narrative chessboard to craft the most compelling arcs possible.
What About the Bridgerton Siblings Still Waiting?
Hyacinth and Gregory – The Endgame?
They’re the youngest, and likely to appear in later seasons — but could their stories be reshuffled if the drama calls for it?
Possible Spin-Offs?
Some fans speculate that Hyacinth or Gregory might get stand-alone spin-offs instead of traditional seasons. After all, Queen Charlotte proved the format works.
Will Book Fans Be Disappointed?
Maybe. But Maybe Not.
If you’re a purist, deviations might frustrate you. But if you love character growth and surprise reveals? You’re in for a treat.
Julia Quinn Is Still Onboard
That’s the key comfort here. The original author supports the changes, meaning the heart of the story remains intact — even if the structure shifts.
Conclusion: Expect the Unexpected
Julia Quinn’s words — “It could always change” — are more than a casual comment. They’re a signal that the world of Bridgerton is fluid, alive, and forever evolving.
Whether you’re a longtime book lover or a brand-new fan, this twist in storytelling strategy keeps the ride thrilling. In a show filled with surprises, maybe the biggest one is that we really don’t know what’s coming next — and that’s what makes it beautiful.
