Stars of the hit Netflix show talk about the importance of representation as part two of season four lands.
February 26, 2026
Netflix’s hit series Bridgerton continues to push the boundaries of representation with the introduction of its first East Asian family in the latest season. This move has been hailed as a “beautiful thing” by the new cast members eager to see diverse narratives unfold on screen.
New Additions to the Bridgerton Family
As the fourth season progresses, viewers are introduced to the Li family, bringing fresh dynamics to the regency drama. Isabella Wei, who portrays Posy Li, expressed her excitement, stating, “When I saw they were casting a whole family of East Asians, it was like, ‘that’s crazy’. It’s our time.”
The new storyline features Posy and her sister Rosamund, along with their formidable mother, Lady Araminta Gun, played by Katie Leung, known for her role as Cho Chang in the Harry Potter series. Leung remarked on her unexpected return to such a prominent role, saying, “I definitely didn’t think I would be here, but I’ve worked hard to be here.”
Season Highlights and Romantic Twists
This season focuses on Benedict Bridgerton, interpreted by Luke Thompson, who finds himself enchanted by a masked lady during a masquerade ball. Unbeknownst to him, his mysterious love interest is not a societal peer but Sophie Baek, a maid. Australian actress Yerin Ha, who plays Sophie, shared her journey of representing the East Asian community, stating, “I keep wanting to push the needle forward.”
Meanwhile, the show also explores the evolving relationship between Francesca Bridgerton and Michaela Stirling, diving into themes of unexpected romance and self-discovery. Masali Baduza, who plays Michaela, commented, “I love feeling that people are happy seeing themselves represented on screen.”
Breaking Barriers in Representation
Despite some criticism regarding the casting of diverse actors in roles originally portrayed differently in Julia Quinn’s novels, the show’s creator Shonda Rhimes has dismissed these complaints as “bizarre.” The cast members, including Wei, feel privileged to be part of this groundbreaking narrative. “It’s such a beautiful thing to be in a room with everyone who looked like you,” Wei noted.
As each season of Bridgerton brings a new sibling into the spotlight, Thompson feels prepared for his turn, saying, “I didn’t feel pressure because I feel like I had started building something in season one.”
With its compelling storylines and dedication to inclusivity, Bridgerton continues to captivate audiences globally. The latest episodes promise to deliver more of the romance and drama that fans have come to love.
Originally reported by bbc.com. Rewritten by 360DailyTrend editorial staff.
