by: Siyona Singhal
Humor Editor

Spoilers

After an excruciating wait, Netflix finally released all the episodes of season four of the epic period piece Bridgerton. Season four was published in two parts: the first four episodes premiered on Jan. 29, and the next four episodes on Feb. 26. The season has received glowing reviews, and fans are obsessed not only with the season’s main couple but also with the characters around them.

Season four brings everything the people want: great costumes, vibrant settings, emotionally developed characters, and, of course, lots of romance. The season focuses on the second-oldest Bridgerton sibling, Benedict, and a maid, Sophie Baek. Their story is a Cinderella-esque romance that blends fairytale love with real-world issues.

Through their sparkling romance, the show highlights the class divide between the two lovers and society’s lack of acceptance for these kinds of couples. Their relationship reflects the vast wealth gap that still resonates 200 years later.

However, beyond Benedict and Sophie, the show also greatly focuses on others in the ton. It explores themes such as grief, friendship, and remarriage in depth. Supporting storylines receive greater emotional depth, allowing viewers to see familiar faces evolve rather than remain static background figures. One of my personal favorite subplots is the relationship between Queen Charlotte and Lady Danbury; they truly represent female friendships, and I love the references to the spin-off show Queen Charlotte.

Bridgerton stays a popular show because of its strong foundation. The show continuously brings back beloved characters from previous seasons. For example, in season four, Anthony Bridgerton and his wife Kate Bridgerton made an appearance; their combined screentime of five minutes had watchers going crazy (I’m watchers). However, beyond cameos, we saw familiar characters navigate complicated feelings and grow through their struggles, making us feel more connected to them.

While the subplots are impactful and important parts of the season, sometimes they took away from the main storyline and made Benedict and Sophie seem like side characters. I wish the show had given the two just a little more screentime so the season felt truly theirs. In addition, many of the side storylines felt forced and rushed, while others were dragged on for too long.

Fans are saying season four redeemed Bridgerton from season three. After overwhelming disappointment in season three, Bridgerton watchers had little hope for season four, but were thankfully wrong. Enthusiasts are ranking the season right below season two, and some believe it is even better. It is safe to say that season four has once again restored the name of Bridgerton and increased the standard for season five.

Overall, Bridgerton season four was great. It kept the parts of past seasons that fans love, but incorporated new and memorable stories. I highly recommend season four to everyone and am anxiously waiting for season five.