Netflix is missing the mark by not having Bridgerton season 3 follow Benedict's story

The Netflix original series Bridgerton is based on the book series by Julia Quinn, which chronicles the lives of the fictional and noble Bridgerton family. Set in the 1800s during London's Regency era, the series showcases the family as they navigate London's high society. While the first two seasons followed the book order, Netflix and Shondaland, producer of the series, opted to skip over Benedict's (Luke Thompson) story and set the third season's focus on the fourth book, which is Colin's (Luke Newton) story.

Showrunner Jess Brownell told Cosmopolitan that the choice to focus on the story of Colin, the third son in the Bridgerton household, and Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) was simply to continue the focus of these two characters, which has been building, especially in season 2. She added that this also allows them to have a bit more fun with Benedict, the second son and budding artist before he settles down.

On one hand, this is understandable, as many viewers love not only Colin and Pen but also the actors who portray them. This may be great news for Polin shippers, but what about Benedict's fans who feel cheated?

Benedict Bridgerton is the son of Edmund, 8th Viscount Bridgerton, and his wife Violet. He, as the second son, has a bit more freedom than his older brother Anthony (Jonathan Bailey), who inherited the title of Viscount upon their father's death. He is a free spirit who isn't impressed by the pomp and frivolity of the ton and seeks to find a different way in the world. He longs to become an artist and begins pursuing this in the second season.

This character is a favorite of many viewers and book readers as he breaks the mold of the traditional Regency man by setting his own course. The Regency is an era of excess and overindulgence, one of the many reasons people love this series; Benedict fascinates many by dressing the part and being the dutiful son while finding his rebellious streak appealing.

Benedict's storyline in season 2 was greatly expanded as he stepped outside the ton and began taking art classes. By deviating from the order of the books, the creators are depriving Benedict's fans of his story. Fans of the books are enthralled with Sophie, who becomes his wife, and it is strange to think the creators believe he can't have fun as a husband.

Luckily, this series has done a fantastic job of giving life to the Bridgerton family, and season 3 will be no exception. But I, along with many other Benedict fans, am sorely disappointed to miss out on his story being featured at a much later date. And besides, Colin was quite a jerk toward Pen at the end of season 2, stating he would never marry her. The trailer for season 3 below shows they do settle on being friends, but it appears there will be much more to come.

Bridgerton's eight-part season 3 will be released on Netflix in two four-episode segments, the first on May 16, 2024, with part two coming on June 13.