‘Bridgerton’ Season 5 begins production, highlights female romance

Bridgerton Season 5 features Masali Baduza and Hannah Dodd as the main romantic figures, with filming currently underway for the Netflix series in the UK.

The upcoming season, created by Shondaland and inspired by Julia Quinn’s books, centers on Francesca, the quiet middle daughter of the Bridgerton family (Dodd).

Two years after the loss of her husband, John, Fran decides to return to the marriage scene for sensible reasons.

However, the arrival of John’s cousin Michaela (Baduza) in London to manage the Kilmartin estate stirs up complex emotions for Fran, making her question whether to follow her logical plans or follow her heart’s desires.

During Season 3, Hannah Dodd took over the role of Francesca Bridgerton from Ruby Stokes, who had married Victor Alli’s John Stirling. 

Fans of Quinn’s novel, When He Was Wicked, are aware that John’s untimely death leads Francesca to fall for his cousin, Michael. 

Season 3 introduced a twist with the casting of Baduza as Michaela Stirling, who appeared in the season finale.

In May 2025, Bridgerton was confirmed for both Season 5 and 6 by Netflix. Earlier this year, Season 4 debuted, highlighting the story of Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson) and Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha). 

The release date for Season 5 has yet to be announced, but the series typically makes its return every two years, suggesting a premiere in early 2028.

Executive producers include Shonda Rhimes, Betsy Beers, Tom Verica, and Chris Van Dusen.