‘Bridgerton’ season four: A Cinderella story

Season four of “Bridgerton” was released in multiple installments, but was available in its entirety on Netflix by Feb. 26.

After a long wait following the third season —which was released in June 2024 — the new storyline finally arrived. The first four episodes were released at the end of January, and the second four episodes followed a month later.

Every season follows the love story of one of the eight Bridgerton children. I was especially anticipating this new season, as it focuses on Benedict Bridgerton — my favorite character.

I had also been looking forward to this season because the previous one was rather disappointing. It followed Colin Bridgerton and Penelope Featherington. While a good concept, the season itself was lacking: the characters were underdeveloped, the costumes were historically inaccurate and the overall plot felt underwhelming.

I was hoping for redemption, and I believe that season four delivered.

The story blatantly retells the age-old Cinderella tale. The female lead, Sophie Baek, works as a maid for her stepmother and two stepsisters after her father died. She sneaks into a Bridgerton masquerade ball, undercover from her family and all those in the ton.

While admiring the party’s grandeur, she catches the eye of Benedict Bridgerton, who has a reputation for not settling down, but is now under the Queen’s scrutiny. Sophie and Benedict meet under the moonlight and share a dance and a kiss, before she abruptly runs off as the clock strikes midnight. Not knowing her true identity, Benedict must search for his one true love, the only evidence her single glove left behind.

We’ve heard this one before.

Yet this recycled story still held my attention, even if this version doesn’t have Selena Gomez dancing or Jennifer Coolidge.

Sophie Baek immediately enchanted me as a character. She was so well-written and the actress, Yerin Ha, performed spectacularly. I was entranced by her story and her world.

Another aspect of this season that kept my attention was the focus on other Bridgerton siblings. The continuation of Penelope’s storyline as Lady Whistledown was executed well. I also enjoyed the glimpse into the life of Queen Charlotte, and her struggles with the people she loves leaving her behind.

Other major side plots included Francesca Bridgerton, who undergoes extreme turmoil this season and has to grapple with marriage issues and infertility. Her character is portrayed beautifully, and I am personally excited for her season to come.

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However, my main focus always stayed on Sophie and Benedict. He spends countless months searching for who he refers to as the “lady in silver.” In his search, he stumbles across Sophie. They travel back to London and, along the way, stay at the Bridgertons’ cottage while Benedict heals from an injury.

Every moment shared between them is intensely romantic and soft. I think it showed a new aspect of the Bridgerton love stories and generally accumulated new feelings regarding every character and relationship in the show.

Overall, season four of Bridgerton did not disappoint. It felt new and refreshing, while also bringing back the traditional sentiment of the show that had been lost during season three.

As always, the ending left the “dearest gentle readers” wanting more — so we will have to sit and wait until more of the Bridgerton stories are revealed.

Rating: 9.5/10

norrisl3@miamioh.edu