What to Expect from 'Bridgerton' Season 5: Queer Love, Second-Chance Romance

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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Netflix has confirmed that fifth installment of the hit series 'Bridgerton' will focus on Francesca Bridgerton's love story. Diverging from the source material, the new season will introduce new dynamics through Francesca's relationship with Michaela Stirling, marking the first same-gender romance focused storyline.

This announcement came shortly after the fourth season was completed, which followed the story of Benedict Bridgerton and Sophie Baek.

Through Netflix's official announcement on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, the production team said the filming process for 'Bridgerton' Season 5 has commenced. "Do not fret, dearest readers, for a certain countess shall find love again," Netflix wrote on its official social media.

A Second Chance at Romance

The main cast for 'Bridgerton' Season 5 includes Hannah Dodd as Francesca Stirling, or Francesca Bridgerton, and Masali Baduza, who portrays Michaela Stirling.

This season will be set two years after the death of Francesca's first husband, John Stirling. Francesca, the introverted middle daughter of the Bridgerton brood, decides to re-enter the marriage mart in London.

But her plans are disrupted when her late husband's cousin, Michaela Stirling, returns to tend to the Kilmartin estate. What initially began as a bond rooted in shared grief slowly transforms into a deep emotional attraction. This storyline is loosely adapted from Julia Quinn's sixth novel, When He Was Wicked, with the character of Michael Stirling changed to Michaela.

Masali Baduza and Hannah Dodd star in Bridgerton Season 5. Photo by Liam Daniel/Netflix

The showrunner of 'Bridgerton,' Jess Brownell, expressed her enthusiasm for the chemistry of the two actresses. “I cannot say enough good things about Hannah and Masali. The two of them have such a beautiful friendship and support each other in such a beautiful way," Brownell stated as quoted from Netflix's Tudum.

Brownell said the next 'Bridgerton' installment will offer a more serene, intimate, and longing romance.

Filming Locations

The filming process for 'Bridgerton' Season 5 reportedly began in iconic locations outside of London. Apart from the luxurious party halls in London, this season is expected to further explore the natural beauty of Scotland, in line with the setting of the Kilmartin estate in the books.

Hannah Dodd, in an interview with Refinery29, said the rolling green of the Highlands plays a vital role in Francesca's emotional journey.

In addition to Dodd and Baduza, several recurring actors are expected to return to the screen, including Claudia Jessie, Nicola Coughlan, Luke Newton, Golda Rosheuvel, and Adjoa Andoh.

Release Date Predictions

Although production began in March 2026, Netflix has yet to announce an official release date. Considering the 'Bridgerton' production cycle, which usually takes around eight months for filming and several months for post-production, industry observers estimate that the next season will only greet viewers in the middle to end of 2027.

A realistic and inclusive representation of love is the main mission of this season's creative team. Masali Baduza affirmed her desire to present queer love on the screen.

"What we really want to achieve is giving a realistic view of queer love onscreen and [giving them] a happily ever after," Baduza stated.