It seems Bridgerton isn’t slowing down anytime soon. The global hit — known for its opulent costumes, orchestral pop covers, and signature Shondaland romance — will soon begin work on its fifth season, according to new industry listings. Production is slated to kick off in March 2026 in the U.K., marking the latest milestone in Netflix’s ambitious multi-season strategy for the franchise.
This follows Netflix’s May 2025 renewal announcement, confirming Bridgerton for seasons 5 and 6, well before the release of Season 4. It’s a sign of confidence in the show’s enduring popularity.
“Bridgerton remains one of Netflix’s most-watched series globally, and its storytelling potential is far from over,” said Bela Bajaria, Netflix’s Chief Content Officer, during the 2025 Upfront event. “Fans can expect more love stories, more scandal, and more Bridgerton family magic for years to come.”
From Season 1 to Season 4: A Recap of Love and Legacy
Based on Julia Quinn’s bestselling novels, Bridgerton has followed a pattern of adapting one Bridgerton sibling’s love story per season. Each chapter introduces a new romantic focus while maintaining continuity in the glittering social circles of Regency London.
| Season | Main Couple | Source Novel | Original Release Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Season 1 | Daphne Bridgerton & Simon Basset | The Duke and I | 2020 |
| Season 2 | Anthony Bridgerton & Kate Sharma | The Viscount Who Loved Me | 2022 |
| Season 3 | Colin Bridgerton & Penelope Featherington | Romancing Mr. Bridgerton | 2024 |
| Season 4 | Benedict Bridgerton & Sophie Baek | An Offer from a Gentleman | 2026 |
Season 4, which premieres in two parts in January and February 2026, adapts Benedict’s story — a “Cinderella-like” romance between the artistic second Bridgerton son and Sophie Baek, the illegitimate daughter of an earl.
“Benedict’s story explores the freedom and cost of choosing love on one’s own terms,” teased Shonda Rhimes, executive producer and creator. “It’s whimsical, heartfelt, and visually stunning.”
What to Expect in ‘Bridgerton’ Season 5?
While Netflix has yet to reveal the Season 5 synopsis, the narrative is widely expected to center on Eloise Bridgerton, the family’s fiercely independent intellectual.
Drawing from Quinn’s fifth novel, To Sir Phillip, With Love, the story follows Eloise as she begins corresponding with Sir Phillip Crane, a widower and father of two. Their growing affection through letters eventually leads to a proposal — and Eloise’s bold decision to run away to meet him.
Potential Themes and Direction
Season 5 will likely explore:
- The tension between independence and duty in Regency society.
- The challenges of love across distance and expectation.
- Eloise’s journey from rebellious young woman to romantic heroine.
“Eloise has always been a fan favorite — intelligent, outspoken, and utterly herself,” said Jess Brownell, Bridgerton showrunner. “Her love story will feel both unconventional and emotionally rich.”
Filming Schedule and Production Details
According to Production Intelligence, Bridgerton Season 5 will begin principal photography in March 2026 across multiple U.K. locations, including London, Bath, and Hampshire — areas long associated with the series’ period authenticity.
| Production Phase | Estimated Timeline | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Production | December 2025 – February 2026 | Casting finalization, costume design, set prep |
| Filming Start | March 2026 | On-location and studio shoots in the U.K. |
| Filming Duration | ~8 months (March–October 2026) | Similar to previous seasons |
| Post-Production | Late 2026 – Spring 2027 | Editing, scoring, and VFX |
| Estimated Release | Spring 2027 (Speculative) | Depending on post-production length |
Behind the Scenes Team
- Executive Producers: Shonda Rhimes, Betsy Beers, and Jess Brownell
- Producer: Michelle Wright
- Production Company: Shondaland for Netflix
- Budget Estimate: $80–90 million per season
With its high production value and attention to visual grandeur, Bridgerton remains one of Netflix’s most expensive series — yet also one of its most successful, consistently ranking among the platform’s top 10 most-watched English-language shows globally.
Release Date Expectations: Spring 2027 Likely
Given Bridgerton’s elaborate production schedule, fans shouldn’t expect Season 5 to premiere before Spring 2027. Past filming-to-release gaps range widely:
- Season 1 took 10 months post-wrap.
- Season 2 required only 4 months.
- Season 3 took an extended 14 months due to post-production refinements and visual effects.
If Season 5 follows a similar pattern to Season 3, a Spring or Summer 2027 release is most realistic.
“We take our time because Bridgerton isn’t just a period drama — it’s a visual feast,” said Chris Van Dusen, the series’ original creator. “Every costume, every ballroom, every note of the score matters.”
‘Bridgerton’s’ Expanding Universe
The success of the franchise has also encouraged Netflix and Shondaland to expand beyond the main series. Following the well-received Queen Charlotte spinoff in 2023, discussions are underway for at least two additional projects within the Bridgerton world.
| Spinoff | Focus | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Queen Charlotte | Young Queen Charlotte and King George III | Released 2023 |
| Untitled Bridgerton Spinoff | Potentially focusing on Lady Violet Bridgerton | In Development |
| Untitled Bridgerton Spinoff | Exploring Featherington family origins | Early Concept Stage |
“The Bridgerton world feels boundless,” said Shonda Rhimes. “There are stories in every corner of London’s ton waiting to be told.”
Why Netflix Is Betting Big on ‘Bridgerton’?
From its debut in 2020, Bridgerton has become a global phenomenon. Season 1 alone drew over 80 million households within 28 days of release, setting a then-record for Netflix Originals.
Each subsequent season has cemented the series’ status as both a pop culture touchstone and a reliable subscriber magnet. Its streaming success has also influenced fashion trends, fan conventions, and even tourism in British filming locations.
“No other show blends romance, inclusivity, and spectacle quite like Bridgerton,” noted Sarah Jackson, TV industry analyst at Ampere Analysis. “Netflix knows this is a crown jewel — and they’re treating it as such.”
A Legacy of Love, Style, and Storytelling
As Bridgerton prepares to roll cameras again, the series stands as both a modern romantic epic and a testament to global storytelling. Its combination of historical escapism and progressive sensibility continues to captivate audiences — proving that even in the age of streaming saturation, some stories are timeless.
For Shonda Rhimes and her creative team, Season 5 marks not just another chapter but the continuation of a legacy — one that’s equal parts scandal, sincerity, and spectacle.
“The Bridgerton family will always have more to say,” Rhimes told reporters earlier this year. “We’re just lucky enough to keep listening.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Filming is set to begin in March 2026 in the United Kingdom.
Based on production timelines, it’s expected to premiere in Spring 2027.
It will likely adapt Eloise Bridgerton’s love story from To Sir Phillip, With Love, exploring themes of independence, family, and unexpected romance.
Core family members, including Claudia Jessie (Eloise), Luke Thompson (Benedict), Nicola Coughlan (Penelope), and others, are expected to return, alongside new cast members yet to be announced.
Production will take place across London, Bath, and other historic U.K. sites.
Yes, Netflix has already renewed Bridgerton for Season 6, with potential spinoffs in early development.
