Stepping into the spotlight as the romantic lead of Bridgerton Season 4 might sound like a nerve-racking leap, but for Luke Thompson, the transition came with an unexpected sense of calm. Having grown alongside the series since its first season, the actor views this moment not as a sudden promotion, but as the natural outcome of years spent quietly learning the ropes.
Thompson explains that joining the show early on, with relatively little screen experience, gave him the rare luxury of time. Time to observe, to adapt, and to understand the intricate machinery of a large-scale production. “The world of being on a set is so complex, and it takes a while to make friends with it,” he told The Hindustan Times, reflecting on those formative seasons. In hindsight, he sees that period as essential groundwork. “By the time of season 4, it was perfect for me to take the lead and for what was going to come next.” Rather than anxiety, the responsibility brought a sense of momentum. “I didn’t feel any nervousness. I was just ready and looking forward to the adventure.”
That sense of discovery carries into Benedict Bridgerton’s central love story with Sophie, played by Yerin Ha. For Thompson, developing that relationship on screen was one of the most fulfilling aspects of the season. He describes his dynamic with Ha as a “rich” creative collaboration, shaped by the many worlds their characters inhabit together. “What’s lovely about the show and this particular storyline is that there are so many different contexts,” he notes, referencing everything from grand ballroom settings to quieter, more intimate spaces. “Our characters get to explore so many sides of their connection.”
Apart from telling the story of Sophie and Benedict, the new season also continues the story of Nicola Coughlan as Penelope and Luke Newton as Colin as they navigate marital life. They now have a baby named Elliot. Her gossip column continues to be active as well. Meanwhile, Violet's simmering romance for Lord Marcus Anderson (Daniel Francis) brews further this season. We also see glimpses of Francesca Bridgerton (Hannah Dodd)'s marital life with Lord John Stirling (Victor Alli).
The upcoming chapter also introduces new faces, including Katie Leung, Michelle Mao and Isabella Wei, expanding the ensemble further. The fourth season is adapted from Julia Quinn's books of the same name, where the fourth one is based on An Offer From a Gentleman.
Several familiar faces will return to the series, including Jonathan Bailey, Simone Ashley, Golda Rosheuvel, Adjoa Andoh, Julie Andrews voicing Lady Whistledown and Polly Walker, among others. The returning cast also features Emma Naomi, Hugh Sachs, Florence Hunt, Will Tilston, Martins Imhangbe, Masali Baduza, Lorraine Ashbourne, and Michelle Mao.
Like the previous seasons, Bridgerton Season 4 will also arrive in two instalments. The first part will debut on January 29, 2026, with the second half scheduled to drop on February 26, 2026.