Dearest Gentle Reader, it’s time for the rake to become a man as we return to the ton for the newest social season.
That rake, of course, is second-born Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson), who spent the last social season exploring all facets of himself, thanks to his relationship with Lady Tilley Arnold. Although they parted on good terms, it’s clear that Benedict has no immediate plans to be defined by a romance, like many of siblings.
But with the first event of the season right around the corner – Violet Bridgerton’s (Ruth Gemmell) masquerade ball – he’s about to be swept up in the magic, mystique and romance of the evening.
Despite arriving to the event late, he captures the attention of the Lady in Silver. With the reluctant help of his sister Eloise (Claudia Jessie), who has returned from a summer in Scotland, Benedict sets out in society to uncover the young lady’s identity.
What Benedict doesn’t know is that his heart’s desire is not in society at all – she’s a resourceful maid called Sophie Baek (Australia’s own Yerin Ha), working for the most demanding employer in the ton, Lady Araminta Gun (Katie Leung). Twice married, twice widowed, and with two daughters making their debut – Rosamund (Michelle Mao) and Posy (Isabella Wei) – the last thing Araminta needs is her maid threatening their standing in society.
It’s a complex story that allows Benedict his moment to shine as he embarks on his great love story. Although Anthony (Jonathan Bailey) and Kate (Simone Ashley) are away, we aren’t short on other Bridgerton’s to follow – like Eloise, Francesca (Hannah Dodd) and John Stirling (Victor Alli) are back in London after their time in Scotland, while Colin (Luke Newton) and Penelope (Nicola Coughlan) are enjoying parenthood while facing new challenges as a now public gossip columnist.
Showrunner Jess Brownell brings this Cinderella story to the screen with all the regency glam we have come to expect. After three years in the wings, Thompson gets to shine as the main lead this season, opposite Ha who makes her presence felt from her very first scene.
Take an offer from a gentleman and return to the ton for another social season.
4 Stars.
Bridgerton Season 4 Part One is now streaming on Netflix with Part 2 coming on February 26
