The second season of BRIDGERTON was an entertaining drama that was not what I expected at all. The first season was introduced during the pandemic, and was lusty, sexy, and fun to watch. Shonda Rhimes, the creator and producer, took us on different journey with the story behind the Viscount Anthony (Jonathan Bailey) looking for true love.
I have read all eight BRIDGERTON books written by Julia Quinn. Each book was a feast of sexual escapades as the siblings looked for their one and only. The second season of BRIDGERTON chose to make it a more serious, intense, series. This is not to say that I did not enjoy the coming and going of the “ton” and all the scandalous families. It was filled with breath-taking moments of sheer delight concerning the costuming and set design. The wigs were “to die for,” and I loved the balls and all the glorious dancing to modern music reinvented for the time period. It all worked splendidly.
I was moved to tears with Penelope’s (Nicola Coughlan) situation and her undying love for Connor. Will he ever see her for who she really is? The writers added a few extra plotlines that were not in the book as well. I have to say, I so missed the Duke (Rege’-Jean Page) None of the men in the series does smoldering like Simon can. The drama really gave us a complete look at the past and the relationship between Anthony and his mother has blossomed. This was an added plus. Kate (Simone Ashley and Edwina (Charithra Chandran) had an amazing chemistry together. I totally believed they were the Sharma Sisters.
BRIDGERTON was a good escape. It was exciting to watch, but not as implicitly hot as it could have been. You have to wait a “long time” to get that lusty feeling that drove millions to originally watch the show. I feel the old formula would work best. Bring on the sexy, hot scenes. We all still need these moments. Season three is already approved. Let’s hope Shonda is listening.
BRIDGERTON is available to stream on NETFLIX.
