'Bridgerton' Season 5 confirms Francesca as next lead but how does her story end in the books?
Contains spoilers for 'When He Was Wicked', the book serving as the inspiration for 'Bridgerton' Season 5'
The teaser of 'Bridgerton' Season 5 has been one of the major headliners in Hollywood news on Tuesday. The lead of the series has been confirmed as Hannah Dodd's Francesca Bridgerton. Her developing romance with Michaela Stirling's Masali Baduza forms the plotline. At the time of writing, the season is officially in production with 2027 pencilled as the release date. Earlier, Netflix released a teaser revealing Francesca and Michaela falling in love. They are seen standing together on a balcony overlooking the lush countryside, and after sharing a glance, they gently touch hands.
The fifth book focuses on elder sister Eloise, played by Claudia Jessie on the show. However, the streamer's creative liberty puts Francesca in the running. The leading couple will be part of a queer love story, further adding more depth to the hit drama. In Season 4, Francesca and Michaela bond after a rocky start. Their shared love for John brings them closer, while also hinting at the possibility of something more. The final moments of Season 4 see Michaela depart abruptly. "If you would like it, I shall stay," Michaela responds when Francesca wishes for her to stay. But after she confesses that she feels 'very close' to Michaela, Michaela pulls away, revealing that she has left London. While the series might feature ample drama, the book ends the romance on a happy note.
The book sees Francesca reeling from the death of her husband, John Stirling. Michaela Stirling from the series is Michael Stirling. The novel also adds that Francesca is not pregnant. The twists come in the form of Michael's love for Francesca, well before her engagement to John. However, he leaves to not complicate the relationship. After the death of his cousin, he returns at the time Francesca decides to remarry so she can have a child. She reconnects with Michael and a will-they-won't-they bond. Seduction, attraction, and guilt serve as decisive factors, and they finally decide to tie the knot. In the final chapter, she visits John's grave and finally admits she loves Michael. The latter overhears her admission, as it also hints at their happily ever after.
The official synopsis reads, "Two years after losing her beloved husband John, Francesca (Hannah Dodd) decides to reenter the marriage mart for practical reasons. But when John’s cousin Michaela (Masali Baduza) returns to London to tend to the Kilmartin estate, Fran’s complicated feelings will have her questioning whether to stick to her pragmatic intentions or pursue her inner passions." While the wait continues for Season 5, fans can catch all four seasons of 'Bridgerton' on Netflix.
