Bridgerton Season 5 to Focus on Queer Love Story

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  • March 25, 2026 at 3:41 AM ET
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Key Takeaways

Netflix has announced that the fifth season of 'Bridgerton' will focus on a queer love story between Francesca Bridgerton and her cousin-in-law Michaela Stirling. This marks the first time the show centers a same-sex romance, departing from the original book series where Michaela was male.

Netflix has confirmed that Bridgerton's fifth season will center on a queer love story between Francesca Bridgerton and her cousin-in-law Michaela Stirling. According to multiple reports, this marks the first time the show will focus its central storyline on a same-sex romance.

The announcement was made on Tuesday, revealing that production for the new season is underway. A teaser trailer shows the two characters standing close together and almost holding hands.

Francesca Bridgerton, played by Hannah Dodd, is described as introverted and reserved. In the upcoming season, she will navigate a 'complicated' romantic relationship with Michaela Stirling, portrayed by Masali Baduza. This storyline represents a significant shift for the series, as all previous main couples have been opposite-sex partners.

The decision to focus on a queer love story is a deliberate departure from Julia Quinn's original book series, where Michaela was a male character named Michael. Executive producer Jess Brownell emphasized the importance of including queer stories in 'Bridgerton,' stating that it aligns with the show's commitment to inclusivity.

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