‘Bridgerton’ to get a LGBTQ+ storyline?

A new character introduction points to a LGBTQ+ plotline in the future.

The popular Netflix series Bridgerton has made a significant deviation from its source material with the introduction of a new character, Michaela Stirling, in the final episodes of its third season. This addition has sparked widespread interest and speculation among fans. 

In the original Bridgerton book series, specifically in book six titled "When He Was Wicked," the character Michael Sterling is introduced as a male cousin of John, who ultimately becomes romantically involved with Francesca Bridgerton. However, the show has opted to reimagine this character as female, renaming her Michaela Stirling.

francesca literally forgetting her own name because of michaela IM CRYING 😭😭 #BRIDGERTON pic.twitter.com/k2kySHjRqG

— mel ʕ•̮͡•ʔ (@hcsiequake) June 13, 2024

Michaela, portrayed by South African actress Masali Baduza, makes her debut in the season finale, meeting Francesca and Eloise Bridgerton. The scene hints at a strong attraction between Francesca and Michaela, suggesting a potential romantic storyline. This marks a significant step towards inclusivity, introducing an LGBTQ+ romance into the series.

Jess Brownell, the showrunner for season three, had previously hinted at a queer storyline for the season and beyond. While initial speculation centered around Benedict Bridgerton, it now appears that Francesca’s storyline will take this direction in future seasons, as according to the book Francessa’s love interest in Micheal Stirling, so introducing a Michela Stirling points to that direction.

Masali Baduza, known for her roles in the British drama series Noughts + Crosses, the slasher film Slumber Party Massacre, and the action-adventure film The Woman King, brings Michaela Stirling to life in this period drama.