In Bridgerton season 3, a major change is made to one character’s book story, but this alteration makes the period drama even more in line with the author’s overall message. Since 2020, Netflix has been adapting Julia Quinn’s romantic Bridgerton books into a live-action television series. In that time, three books and a spinoff have been brought to life, and five more stories are still left to tell. Bridgerton may not always adapt every detail from the books, but these adjustments often help make the series that much better.

While book-to-TV adaptations can often be criticized for moving too far away from their source material, Bridgerton is a unique example of change being a good thing. One of the most significant book to TV changes made to Bridgerton was the inclusion of a more diverse cast. Characters that were portrayed as white in Julia Quinn’s books were cast with actors of color. Ultimately, this made the show more representative and interesting. Since then, Bridgerton has made countless other modifications, both small and large, that have benefited the show immensely.

Bridgerton Season 3 Sets Up Francesca As LGBTQ+

Michael Is Now Michaela

The final episode of Bridgerton season 3 set up the beginnings of Francesca’s future love story, but one important distinction was made. Julia Quinn’s book, When He Was Wicked, follows the romance between Francesca and Michael Stirling. However, Bridgerton season 3 introduced Michael as Michaela Stirling, played by South African actress, Masali Baduza. Ultimately, this distinction is not only important for Michael’s character, but also for Francesca’s. It confirms that Francesca’s true love match will be an LGBTQ+ relationship. 

Michaela’s gender swap is a massive moment for the Bridgerton franchise.

While Bridgerton has already included more diversity in terms of sexual orientation over the years, Francesca’s storyline is the first instance of a Bridgerton sibling’s main romance being LGBTQ. Benedict has been portrayed as being bisexual in the show, but as far as viewers know, his love story will still be with a woman. In this way, Michaela’s gender swap is a massive moment for the Bridgerton franchise. It sets up more representation and a new type of story that Bridgerton has yet to delve into yet. All in all, this is an update that almost certainly makes Bridgerton better.

Bridgerton Season 4 Can Deliver On Author Julia Quinn’s Saga Message

Quinn Wants Everyone To Have A Happy Ending

Francesca’s LGBTQ+ love story may be different from Julia Quinn’s books, but it aligns with the message the author is trying to spread. In an interview with Cosmopolitan, Julia Quinn revealed that she loved Netflix’s decision to make Francesca gay. She explained, “Imagining a gay protagonist in ‘The Bridgertons’ seems like a good idea to me because the goal of the saga has always been to show that all people deserve a happy ending.” This goal will almost certainly be fulfilled in the coming seasons of Bridgerton due to this Francesca change.

Every Bridgerton Book In Order
Which Bridgerton It Follows

The Duke and I
Daphne

The Viscount Who Loved Me
Anthony

An Offer From a Gentleman
Benedict

Romancing Mister Bridgerton
Colin

When He Was Wicked
Francesca

It’s In His Kiss
Hyacinth

On the Way to the Wedding
Gregory

The Bridgertons: Happily Ever After
All