Jonathan Bailey, known for his role as Anthony Bridgerton in the hit Netflix series Bridgerton, recently shared his thoughts on the adaptation's changes, particularly regarding Francesca's love interest. Bailey expressed his support for the decision to swap Michael with Michaela Sterling, emphasizing that it was a brilliant move.
In Season 3, viewers witnessed Francesca's evolving love story as she met her future husband, John, portrayed by Victor Alli. The unexpected introduction of John's cousin, Michaela, instead of the character Michael from the books surprised many fans. Showrunner Jess Brownell explained that the alteration was part of the plan to tell a queer story in line with the thematic cues from the original books.
Brownell sought and received approval from author Julia Quinn before implementing the narrative change. Quinn herself endorsed the twist, expressing confidence that Francesca's storyline would be emotionally impactful in the upcoming season.
The decision to prioritize inclusivity and representation in Bridgerton was met with enthusiasm by the cast, including Hannah Dodd, who plays Francesca. Dodd expressed pride in being part of a show that brings happiness and comfort to viewers, especially those who may not often see themselves represented on screen.
Bridgerton's commitment to telling diverse and engaging stories has resonated with audiences, with Dodd acknowledging the positive impact her character has had on viewers. The show's exploration of different narratives and characters has been well-received, contributing to its popularity on Netflix.
As Bridgerton continues to captivate audiences with its storytelling and diverse representation, fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming seasons and the new characters and relationships that will be introduced.
