The highly anticipated return of the popular Netflix period drama “Bridgerton” has fans excited, but TV critics have warned that the new season may disappoint those hoping for more of the steamy sex scenes that were a hallmark of the first season. Reviews of the new season, which focuses on the love story between Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton, have criticized the lackluster sex scenes, with some critics stating that the show is losing its edge. Despite this, actress Nicola Coughlan receives praise for her performance in the series, and fans are eager to see the development of the romance between Penelope and Colin.
As actors Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton prepared to take on the roles of the leading couple in the third season of “Bridgerton,” they felt the pressure of stepping into the spotlight after being supporting characters in previous seasons. Coughlan recalls feeling relaxed as a supporting actor, knowing that the main focus was on other characters, but the shift to being the main story was overwhelming for her and Newton. Developed by Shonda Rhimes’ television production company Shondaland and Netflix, “Bridgerton” follows the romantic journeys of the Bridgerton family in early 19th-century London as they navigate the social season and look for love.
Season 3 of “Bridgerton” explores the friends-to-lovers romantic arc between characters Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton, played by Coughlan and Newton. The show’s new showrunner, Jess Brownell, sees the romance between Pen and Colin as a significant draw for viewers, citing the relatability of the friends-to-lovers trope and the humor, lightness, and familiarity it brings to the story. The decision to focus on this storyline, rather than follow the book series’ chronological order, was made to capitalize on the connection that viewers have already formed with the characters after two seasons of being on screen.
The on-screen chemistry between Coughlan and Newton adds depth to the friends-to-lovers storyline, with Brownell noting that the humor and playfulness they bring to their performances resonate with audiences. The decision to shift the focus to Penelope and Colin’s romance was a deliberate choice to break away from the traditional narrative and provide a fresh twist to the storyline. By making Colin work for Pen’s affections, the show aims to keep viewers engaged and invested in their relationship as it unfolds on screen.
Despite the mixed reviews from critics regarding the lack of steamy sex scenes in the new season of “Bridgerton,” fans are still eager to see how the romance between Penelope and Colin will develop. The chemistry between Coughlan and Newton, combined with the fresh approach to the storyline by showrunner Jess Brownell, promises to bring a new dynamic to the show and keep viewers engaged. As the season unfolds, audiences can expect to see the evolution of the friends-to-lovers relationship between Penelope and Colin play out against the backdrop of the lavish sets and period drama that have made “Bridgerton” a popular and beloved series.
