Judging by the series' massive breakout success, it seems that the writers of Bridgerton discovered a perfect recipe for a global mega-hit since not many people can resist its 19th-century characters and scandals. But while most viewers got instantly bewitched by its plot, there's a big chance they missed a hidden detail or a piece of interesting information about some aspects of this Regency-era series.
Whether it be related to delightful costumes, historical personas, or perhaps symbolism, it's in the nature of every big fan to find out everything they can about their favorite show. So, without further ado, here are some cool Bridgerton facts to always keep in mind (especially for the next season).
It's The Most-Watched Debut Series On Netflix
In case fans didn't realize how much of a big deal their favorite show is, the following numbers will paint a clearer picture. Since the premiere of this Netflix original in December, Bridgerton's popularity drastically increased and, in only four weeks, sured The Witcher – a previous viewership record holder. To be more precise, 82 million households were more interested in watching Daphne finding her dream husband, while "only" 76 million enjoyed Geralt of Rivia's monster-slaying adventures. Not to mention the series placed number one in 83 countries.
All things considered, it seems that Bridgerton is (at least for now) Netflix's biggest show of all time.
It Shares Filming Locations With "The Crown"
Some of the scene settings in The Crown and Bridgerton might look familiar to those with a keen eye for detail. For example, Clyvedon Castle (Simon's family home where he and Daphne spent their honeymoon) is actually Wilton House in Wiltshire. The same place is also used as Buckingham Palace's interior on The Crown.
Furthermore, another cool-to-know location fact is that Bridgerton's Somerset House scenes were filmed at the 18th-century property Somerley Estate – which on the other show represents Prince of Wales' country residence Highgrove House.
It Features Modern Song Covers
Stunning gowns, beautiful cast, compelling characters, and their thrilling love lives… This Regency-era series has, indeed, a perfect recipe for capturing its audience's hearts. And, as if this show couldn't get any better, Ariana Grande's "Thank U, Next" starts playing in the background while Anthony is trying to get every irer out of Daphne's sight!
So, other than classical music suitable for that historical period, Bridgerton also includes a list of pop songs (mostly covered by Vitamin String Quartet). Therefore, fans can enjoy Maroon 5’s "Girls Like You" or Taylor Swift’s "Wildest Dreams," which makes the show even more relatable for contemporary viewers.
Mr. Darcy Inspired Some Honeymoon Scenes
The series, unquestionably, shares some similarities with Jane Austen's work; however, when it comes to a depiction of ion between lovers, Bridgerton has taken those spicy moments to the next level.
For example, the amusing awkwardness of Elizabeth stumbling upon soaking wet Mr. Darcy is a well-known scene from the 1995 BBC adaptation of inspired Simon's wet shirt outfit in the "Swish" episode; however, his actions were far more "scandalous" after he and Daphne got caught in the rain than Mr. Darcy's uncomfortable conversation with Lizzy.
Everything About Queen Charlotte
Although she doesn't appear in Julia Quinn's books, it was surely a great idea to add this real royal character to the show. Even historically, Queen Charlotte was a cool and interesting lady. For instance, it is believed that she was the first British biracial monarch; plus, she ed the famous composer Mozart who dedicated six of his sonatas to her.
In the show, she can be often seen surrounded by Pomeranians, wearing enormous wigs, and enjoying smokeless tobacco. In the meantime, the Queen does not restrain herself from all the gossip and big drama that happens in London's society.
Will Is Based On A Real-Life Boxer
Just like the Queen, Simon's good friend and sparring partner Will Mondrich is also inspired by a historical figure – fighter Bill Richmond. To make a long story short, after he escaped slavery, Richmond became the "Black Terror" or, in other words, "Britain’s first Black sporting celebrity" due to his success in boxing.
With that being said, Mondrich's storyline certainly bears a resemblance to the 19th-century boxer's life. Exactly like Richmond, this Bridgerton character is also greatly respected by British society for his boxing talent, which he turns into profit so he can provide for his family.
The Creation Of Lady Danbury's Signature Look
Another cool character on the show is definitely Lady Danbury with her iconic walking cane and a classy hat. It might be a little-known (but surely an interesting) fact that Adjoa Andoh, who portrays this witty widow, was the one to propose those accessories for her character.
In an interview for New African magazine, the actress explained that she wanted to show a masculine side to Lady Danbury's personality – after all, only the men of that era would wear walking sticks and hats. For that matter, those details are supposed to reflect her power in a society that gives little freedom to women.
Daphne's Look Is Inspired By Audrey Hepburn
Anyone who re Audrey Hepburn in the 1956 movie War and Peace, which is based on Tolstoy's novel of the same name, will spot the resemblance between her and Daphne's hairstyles as well as an overall natural appearance (no heavy makeup for these ladies!). In particular, it primarily refers to Daphne's curled bangs that incredibly reminiscent of Hepburn's.
In addition, Beyonce's Afro in 2002 spy comedy Austin Powers in Goldmember inspired Queen Charlotte's wig in "An Affair of Honor" episode of the series.
The Color Symbolism Behind Costumes
When it comes to beautiful Bridgerton costumes, it's interesting to know that every family has its own color palette. That means that the Featheringtons usually wear bright colors such as yellow and orange, in order for their young daughters to stand out among the prettier competition. On the contrary, the Bridgertons' social status has been long established, so their wardrobe is full of white, light green, and (mainly) pastel blue. Finally, the Duke of Hastings is frequently seen in red.
However, after Daphne and Simon's engagement, their family started to choose purple outfits, which symbolize the ing of two prosperous families.
The Mystery Of Bees And Butterflies
Two symbols that can be often noticed throughout the show are butterflies and bees. The former refers to the Featheringtons and stands for the change these social climbers are going through in order to become accepted of high society. The motif appears on Penelope's dresses as well as on the family's staircase.
Furthermore, the bee represents the Bridgertons community and power. It pops out every now and then, but it's there from the beginning to the very end of the show: on the doorknob, costumes, windows, etc. Besides, it turns out the bee is also a foreshadowing of the next season that would probably focus on the eldest Bridgerton sibling. As many fans of Quinn's books may already know, his father Edmund died from an allergic reaction to a bee sting, leaving Anthony with a fear of these flying insects and of dying too young.