Netflix has released the Part 1 trailer for “Bridgerton” season 4, giving viewers their first look at Benedict Bridgerton’s central storyline. Season 4 is based on Julia Quinn’s novel “An Offer from a Gentleman” and marks a shift for a character who has previously avoided traditional expectations.
‘Bridgerton’ Season 4 Centers on Benedict Bridgerton
Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson) takes the lead in season 4 after spending previous seasons focused on art, relationships, and personal freedom. Speaking about the expanded role, Thompson said the season allows the character to be explored more fully.
“We’ve experienced Benedict through the seasons as something that pops up now and again,” Thompson told Netflix. “To get to spend a full eight episodes focused on him is great.”
The trailer shows Benedict meeting Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha), at a masquerade ball hosted by his mother, Lady Violet Bridgerton. Sophie appears masked and dressed in silver, and the brief encounter leaves a lasting impression on Benedict.
Showrunner Jess Brownell explained that the scene was designed to feel removed from reality. “You feel like you’re in a dream space,” Brownell said. “This moment launches the season’s story.”
A Masked Romance Drives the Season’s Story
After meeting Sophie, Benedict becomes determined to find her again, unaware of her true identity or the circumstances surrounding her life. The trailer hints that Sophie is hiding important parts of herself and that her reasons for doing so will affect their relationship.
As the trailer notes, “Behind the cover of a mask, anything can happen.”
Ha said the relationship raises simple but meaningful questions. “If you are in love with the person at the core of who they are,” she said, “then that should be all that matters.”
Season 4 of “Bridgerton” also checks in on other familiar characters. Francesca Bridgerton (Hannah Dodd), returns from her honeymoon with her husband John (Victor Alli). Penelope Bridgerton (Nicola Coughlan) and Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) appear settled into married life following season 3. Violet Bridgerton (Ruth Gemmell) continues to manage her children’s lives while adjusting to changes in her own.
New Cast Members Join ‘Bridgerton’ Season 4, Plus a Look Ahead
Several new actors join the series this season, including Katie Leung, Michelle Mao, and Isabella Wei. Netflix confirmed that additional details and cast discussions are available on Tudum.
While season 4 focuses on Benedict, fans have begun discussing what it could mean for the series’ future. Brownell previously told Entertainment Weekly that “An Offer from a Gentleman” was the “easiest book to adapt.” She also told The Hollywood Reporter in 2024 that a time jump will happen at some point in the series, though she did not confirm when.
“Bridgerton” season 4, Part 1, premieres January 29, and Part 2 premieres February 26, on Netflix. An early screening of episode 1 will be available on January 14 on Tudum. Seasons 1 through 3 are currently streaming.
