Is Bridgerton season 4 based on Cinderella?

The regency-era drama centers on Benedict Bridgerton and his romance with Sophie Baek

Bridgerton Season 4 is officially leaning into fairy-tale territory, with the new season’s central love story drawing clear inspiration from Cinderella. The latest installment of Netflix’s hit Regency-era drama centers on Benedict Bridgerton and his romance with Sophie Baek, a storyline that mirrors many of the classic fairy tale’s most recognizable elements while giving them a grounded, modern spin.

The season is adapted from Julia Quinn’s novel An Offer from a Gentleman, which has long been described as the Cinderella story of the Bridgerton book series. At the heart of the plot is a lavish masquerade ball hosted by the Bridgerton family, where Benedict meets Sophie while she is disguised and hiding her true identity. Their brief but powerful connection sets off a search that closely resembles the prince’s quest to find the mysterious woman who captured his heart at the ball.

Like Cinderella, the story explores themes of class divide, secrecy and transformation. Sophie is from a lower social standing and works as a maid, creating a sharp contrast between her reality and the world Benedict inhabits. However, Bridgerton avoids the magical elements of the fairy tale, opting instead for emotional realism. There is no fairy godmother or glass slipper, and Sophie’s journey is driven by resilience, self-worth and determination rather than enchantment.

Showrunner Jess Brownell and members of the cast have emphasized that while the Cinderella parallels are intentional, Season 4 expands the story to give Sophie greater agency and depth. Her struggle to navigate rigid social hierarchies becomes a key focus, offering commentary on class and identity that feels consistent with the show’s broader themes. Benedict’s role also evolves beyond that of a romantic rescuer, as the season explores his growth, empathy and willingness to challenge societal expectations.

Fans have already pointed out familiar fairy-tale beats in the season’s early episodes, particularly the masquerade ball and Benedict’s lingering obsession with the woman he cannot identify. These moments have fueled excitement among viewers who recognize the Cinderella framework while appreciating Bridgerton’s signature blend of romance, drama and spectacle.

By weaving a classic fairy tale into its Regency setting, Bridgerton Season 4 continues the series’ tradition of reimagining well-known romantic tropes in fresh ways. The result is a Cinderella-inspired love story that feels both timeless and distinctly modern, reinforcing why the show remains one of Netflix’s most talked-about period dramas.