Bridgerton: Season 3, Part 2

Streaming on: Netflix

Episodes watched: 4 of 4

Patience is a virtue, and that’s something Bridgerton characters know all too well. Whether they’re waiting for the next instalment of Lady Whistledown’s scintillating column or pleasures of the flesh upon finally securing that all-important marriage agreement, it seems Regency-era England required nothing but patience. But waiting can be frustrating, too. That’s something fans of Bridgerton know all too well after being forced to endure a month-long gap between each half of Season 3.

But, dear reader, it brings us great joy to reveal that Part 2 was absolutely worth the wait. In fact, it improves on the first in every way. The lacklustre chemistry between Colin (Luke Newton) and Penelope (Nicola Coughlan) last time around blossoms not only into the most beautiful sex scene this show has ever depicted, but also some of the finest acting seen in Bridgerton yet. When Penelope looks back at herself in the mirror, it’s life-changing for her, but also feels like a career-defining moment for Coughlan as well. Imagine ever thinking sex scenes aren’t necessary after watching a sequence like this.

The rest of the ’Ton are having just as much fun in these last four episodes, too. With everyone racing to discover Whistledown’s true identity, the stakes are raised considerably, adding new layers of tension hitherto unseen in the ballroom. Eloise (Claudia Jessie) especially steals every scene she’s in, torn apart by love and indecision as chaos ensues around her. Meanwhile, Benedict (Luke Thompson) finally has a story of note which — along with Francesca’s (Hannah Dodd) own revelation — means that Bridgerton can fully become the inclusive world it’s long claimed to be.

Smart changes to the source material combined with bold narrative leaps ensure that Bridgerton is more than just the belle of the ball now. It’s become the rare Netflix success story that’s just as well made as it is widely watched. And that’s going to make the two-year wait for new episodes nigh-on unbearable.