No doubt everyone is looking forward to Bridgerton season 4 after season 3 parts 1 and 2 have now aired. Obviously the show was renewed ages ago, but there is some rather bad news about season 4, according to a new update. A new production listing suggests that Bridgerton season 4’s filming start date has been delayed to mid-September, and will run through April 2025. It was originally supposed to film this summer, but now that’s been pushed a bit, meaning a later release date for when it finally does air. Previously, showrunner Jess Brownell has talked about how they just cannot get it down below a two year gap between seasons:
“We are working to try and put the seasons out more quickly, but they do take eight months to film and then they have to be edited, and then they have to be dubbed into every language,” she continued. “And the writing takes a very long time as well, so we’re kind of on a two-year pace, we’re trying to speed up but somewhere in that range.”
For reference, Bridgerton season 3 wrapped filming in March of 2023, and the show was in post-production until its release in May of 2024. That’s well over a year in post-production, albeit there weas some interruption from the writers strike. If we’re talking just a flat two years between seasons, that would be May of 2026. But if we’re going based on the post-production time of season 3, if filming wraps for season 4 in April of 2025, 14 months after that would be June 2026 instead. So this delay is pushing it back a bit, for sure.
Given that there are eight mainline books to adapt in the Bridgerton series, provided no more are written, Netflix may very well be making new Bridgerton seasons well into the mid-to-late 2030s, if this 2-2.5 year gap between seasons remain, and that appears to be the plan. I’m not sure Netflix cares, as they want a big hit to stay around as long as possible, and even with eight books there are still side-stories that can be adapted by other people in the gaps like we saw with the prequel Queen Charlotte.
With Stranger Things about to end after season 5, I would not be surprised if Bridgerton took over as Netflix’s top ongoing hit, even if something like say, Squid Game season 2 will do big numbers. I think it’s main competition will be Wednesday. But yes, in between seasons it’s going to be an extremely long wait.
Well, dear reader, if you’ve been anxiously fanning yourself while waiting for the next scandalous installment of Bridgerton, we’ve got some rather sour news. Season 4 isn’t just delayed—it’s seriously delayed. Netflix recently confirmed that the next season of our favorite Regency-era romance drama won’t arrive until 2026. Yep, you read that right.
So, what’s behind the delay? And what does it mean for fans and the future of the series? Let’s spill the (Earl Grey) tea.
Why Is ‘Bridgerton’ Season 4 Taking So Long?
Production Schedules Are Slower Than a Regency Courtship
Unlike a quick elopement to Gretna Green, producing Bridgerton is a labor of love—and a long one at that. With intricate set designs, detailed costumes, and an ensemble cast, filming isn’t exactly a fast process.
Strikes and Industry Slowdowns
The Hollywood writers’ and actors’ strikes in 2023 had a ripple effect across the entertainment industry. Productions halted, schedules were pushed back, and even Lady Whistledown herself couldn’t whisper her way around the delays.
What Has Netflix Said About the Delay?
A Cryptic Yet Confirming Statement
Netflix hasn’t spilled all the details, but showrunner Jess Brownell confirmed in recent interviews that Season 4 is targeted for a 2026 release. While there’s no official month or day, it’s clear we won’t be seeing our favorite lords and ladies next year.
The Fan Backlash Is Real (And Loud)
Social Media Is in an Uproar
Twitter, TikTok, and Reddit are overflowing with disappointed (and slightly outraged) fans. Memes, hot takes, and desperate pleas to Netflix have become daily content.
“I Waited Two Years for This?!”
That’s the general sentiment. With Season 3 premiering in 2024 and Season 4 not due until 2026, fans are looking at a massive two-year gap—again.
How Bridgerton Became a Binge-Worthy Obsession
From Page to Screen: Julia Quinn’s Legacy
The original book series captured hearts with its charming characters and sizzling storylines. Netflix brought those pages to life in spectacular fashion.
The Shondaland Effect
Shonda Rhimes knows how to create a show that sticks. From Grey’s Anatomy to Scandal, her production house makes TV that becomes the topic at every brunch table.
What’s Coming in Season 4?
A Mystery Worth the Wait
We still don’t know who the next season will focus on, but speculation is high. Will it be Benedict? Eloise? Or maybe even Francesca again? Netflix is tight-lipped, but fan theories abound.
More Drama, More Romance
Despite the delay, one thing’s for sure: Season 4 promises the signature blend of elegance, scandal, and steamy romance that we’ve come to crave.
Why the Long Gaps Between Seasons?
High Production Values
Those corsets, carriages, and ballroom scenes aren’t whipped up overnight. The show’s aesthetic demands months of meticulous prep.
Writing and Rewriting
Crafting the perfect balance between book accuracy and TV drama takes time. Writers want to get it right—and we can’t blame them for that.
Global Impact: Bridgerton Isn’t Just a U.S. Sensation
International Viewership is Huge
From London to Lagos, fans worldwide tune in for each season. That global scale means everything from dubbing to marketing takes longer.
Could Season 4 Be the Best Yet?
Long Waits = High Expectations
Every extra month adds more pressure. Fans expect fireworks—and Bridgerton has to deliver.
A Chance to Fine-Tune the Plot
With more time, writers and producers can polish the scripts to perfection. Maybe the delay is a blessing in disguise?
Behind the Scenes: What the Cast Is Saying
Hints and Teases
While they’re not giving away spoilers, the cast has dropped breadcrumbs in interviews. Expect emotional twists, deeper character development, and maybe a few surprise cameos.
Bridgerton’s Timeline: What We Know So Far
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Season 1: Premiered December 2020
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Season 2: Released March 2022
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Season 3: Premiering in two parts, 2024
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Season 4: Set for 2026
Yep, that’s a two-year rhythm—and it seems Netflix is sticking to it.
The Psychology of Anticipation: Why Waiting Hurts
The ‘Game of Thrones’ Effect
Long waits can boost hype, but they also increase risk. Expectations soar, and even a good season might not feel great after years of waiting.
Delayed Gratification Isn’t Always Fun
Sure, patience is a virtue. But in the age of instant streaming, two years can feel like a lifetime.
Bridgerton Books to Read While You Wait
The Perfect Bridgerton Reading Order
If you haven’t read Julia Quinn’s novels yet, now’s the perfect time. Here’s the ideal order:
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The Duke and I
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The Viscount Who Loved Me
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An Offer from a Gentleman
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Romancing Mister Bridgerton
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To Sir Phillip, With Love
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When He Was Wicked
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It’s In His Kiss
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On the Way to the Wedding
Can We Expect a Bridgerton Spin-Off Instead?
More Lady Whistledown Chronicles?
Given the success of Queen Charlotte, another spin-off wouldn’t be surprising. Netflix may fill the gap with bonus content or specials.
Final Thoughts: Is the Wait Worth It?
So here’s the thing: Yes, it stings. No one likes waiting. But if Bridgerton Season 4 delivers on all the heart-fluttering drama and regency goodness, then maybe—just maybe—it’ll be worth the anticipation.
Let’s just hope Netflix keeps us entertained in the meantime.
