Dearest gentle readers, the wait is over, because “Bridgerton” has returned for season 4! Netflix’s lavish Regency romance is back with a brand new love story, and we're here breaking down every shocking moment of part 1, while sharing release details for part 2, live episode reactions, and what this first batch of episodes is setting up for what’s to come.
Since debuting in 2020, “Bridgerton” has become one of Netflix’s biggest global hits, consistently topping viewing charts and sparking endless conversation with each new season. And it seems like this fourth chapter has already gone down a treat, with the season scoring some positive early reviews online.
With that momentum behind it, season 4 shifts the spotlight to Benedict Bridgerton and a Cinderella-inspired romance filled with secrets and a glittering masquerade ball. Now that the first four episodes are streaming on Netflix, here are our reactions, the best moments, and everything to know about season 4 (including part 2).
Spoiler warning: This live blog will feature real-time reactions and spoilers for each episode!
How to watch ‘Bridgerton’ season 4 part 1 now
“Bridgerton” season 4, part 1 premiered on Netflix on January 29, 2026, with the first four episodes becoming available at 12 a.m. PT / 3 a.m. ET (which is 8 a.m. GMT for the U.K. and later times in other regions). Part 2 of the fourth season is set to debut on February 26, 2026.
Welcome!
Welcome to our “Bridgerton” season 4 part 1 live blog! Whether you’re a longtime fan of the ton or new Netflix’s biggest romantic drama, this is your go-to spot for release details, episode reactions when the first part drops, and all the latest updates. Stay tuned, because we’ll be updating everything in real time!
What’s the release schedule for ‘Bridgerton’ season 4 part 1?
“Bridgerton” season 4 part 1 will be available on Netflix worldwide at 12 a.m. PT / 3 a.m. ET, with U.K. viewers able to start streaming from 8 a.m. GMT. Part 1 will have the first four episodes of season 4, with part 2 dropping next month.
Here’s what to expect in the new season
Quick reminder on “Bridgerton” season 4’s love story: this season puts Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson) in the spotlight as he navigates his next great romance. After resisting long‑term commitment, Benedict’s heart is captured by Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha) — a mysterious woman he meets under enchanting, Cinderella‑like circumstances — and their connection drives much of the drama and heart this season.
And before we dive into all the new season buzz, don’t forget to test your memory with our season 3 recap quiz! It’s the perfect warm‑up to get you ready for what’s coming next.
Not long now!
Episodes for “Bridgerton” season 4 part 1 should be dropping in just 15 minutes, but while you wait, check out this fun interview with the cast! They answer some of the wildest and most unexpected questions from fans, giving plenty of laughs for those in the U.S. to stay awake, and a serotonin boost for U.K. viewers to brighten an early morning.
‘Bridgerton’ season 4 part 1 is now streaming, so let’s watch episode 1!
The wait is over! Grab your tea (or something stronger) and settle in as we dive into the first episode of “Bridgerton” season 4. Titled “The Waltz” and running a solid 63 minutes, this episode kicks off Benedict and Sophie’s story, so expect plenty of juicy drama and all the ton’s signature twists.
Final warning that the updates that follow will contain spoilers!
Things are already heating up!
Benedict is once again being mischievous, missing a family gathering to… well, you know. But that’s the point of this season and Benedict’s story: he’s actively damning his reputation by avoiding marriage, and we see the struggle his mother faces in trying to accept it. “Settling down and joining society” simply isn’t in his cards right now.
What is more pressing, though, is the upcoming masquerade ball! And Lady Whistledown’s very intriguing deal with Queen Charlotte, because what’s more exciting than gossip in the ton?
We need to talk about those stunning costumes
Martin Shore here - I’m a Streaming Staff Writer who will be stepping in for Alix throughout the day, but I couldn’t resist getting in on the fun early on because I was so impressed by everyone’s outfits at the Bridgertons’ masquerade ball!
I think my favorite of the bunch might be Penelope and Colin’s piratical garb, or Will and Alice’s shooting, for what I can only assume is an Anthony and Cleopatra riff. But who wore your favorite outfit?
Love is in the air…
Of course, in true Benedict fashion, he sneaks off before the ball begins to attend a rather seductive party. While he’s off having his own fun, we’re shown glimpses of each character’s costumes for the ball, including a mysterious young woman in a glamorous silver mask and gown. Sophie Baek has entered the scene!
There are also more seeds planted in the growing tension between Francesca and Sir John Stirling’s cousin, Michaela. John suggests staying another season so Francesca can remain close to her family, but book fans know how this story ultimately plays out…
Finally, once Benedict returns to the ball, he sees Sophie for the first time — the lovely “Lady in Silver.” He’s drawn to her immediately, captivated by her beaming joy and her apprehension about dancing, and even marriage. It’s a genuinely sweet moment, and it’s exciting to see how this Cinderella-style trope will unfold.
But surprisingly, the most tender moment comes from Lady Danbury’s request that Queen Charlotte allow her to leave at the end of the season so she can travel and visit her ancestral home. For a moment, it seems like the Queen will say yes, but she bluntly refuses. Ouch!
A fleeting magical moment
Benedict and Sophie share a magical moment away from the crowd, where he asks about her life and she resists as much as possible, knowing she can’t reveal who she truly is. What makes it especially tender is how rare it is to see Benedict being so genuinely himself.
When the clock strikes midnight, Sophie must abandon her Lady in Silver dreams and leave — but not before giving Benedict a quick kiss. The only clue she leaves behind is her glove…
It’s then we get an insight into Sophie’s life as a maid for Lady Araminta Gun at Penwood House. This setting and her role below stairs clearly show the class divide and social obstacles at the heart of her romance with Benedict.
And so episode 2 begins!
We’re now onto episode 2! The masquerade may be over, but the tension, secrets, and romance are just getting started.
Sophie deserves better
Only three minutes in, and Sophie is already struggling with the Penwood family. Thankfully, her spirits lift when we see how her plan to attend the masquerade ball actually plays out.
This episode also gives us some flashbacks to Sophie’s past, including the first time she meets Lady Penwood — who has married her father. Even from that initial encounter, it’s clear that Lady Penwood holds a certain distaste for her, perhaps because she wasn’t expecting her lover to have a child.
We also get a deeper insight into Queen Charlotte and Lady Danbury’s relationship, particularly in how the Queen seems to despise the idea of being alone.
The search for the “mysterious” Lady in Silver
Oh, look at that — Benedict is out of bed before noon! And he’s determined to find the Lady in Silver, armed with nothing but the glove she left behind. He even asks Penelope to mention his “desire” for courtship in the next issue of Lady Whistledown, hoping the mysterious woman he met (aka Sophie) will believe he’s serious about leaving his rake life behind.
Of course, that means he’s left unsatisfied when none of the women he meets fit the criteria, which is especially frustrating to watch since we know exactly who she is!
Quick mid-episode update on this season’s first reactions!
Reviews are going live on Rotten Tomatoes as the episodes air, giving a first look at how critics are responding to the new season. Clotilde Chinnici from Loud and Clear Reviews said: “Bridgerton [season 4] part 1 is a very promising start for what sets out to be a scandalous, thrilling, and gossip-filled season 4.”
Meanwhile, Common Sense Media’s Joyce Slaton stated “everyone's favorite torrid period soap picks back up in its fourth season with beats fans will recognize, eliciting a cozy, contented feeling.”
Benedict has a clue!
Just as Benedict starts to lose hope, his mother comes to the rescue, revealing that the inside of the glove bears a stitched crest belonging to the Penwood family. It suggests that another lady may be staying there… and we know exactly which one.
However, when he finally pays a visit, it’s to see one of the sisters: Posy Li. Sophie can do nothing but watch through the crack of the door, feeling hopeless and heartbroken that she can’t step forward and confess everything. Honestly, it’s completely valid that she ends up having a silent breakdown afterward.
And what a way to end this post, with Lady Penwood discovering that Sophie did attend the ball and promptly dismissing her, forbidding her from ever working in Mayfair again. It’s a heartbreaking scene, but there’s a strange sense of relief in knowing Sophie will never have to work for that family again.
Netflix has confirmed every song in 'Bridgerton' season 4 part 1!
Netflix has finally confirmed the first batch of songs featured in "Bridgerton" season 4 part 1, revealing a fresh lineup of orchestral covers of modern hits from artists including Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Coldplay, Paramore, Usher, and Third Eye Blind! Check out the full list below:
- Taylor Swift — “Enchanted”
- Paramore — “All I Wanted”
- Olivia Rodrigo — “Bad Idea Right”
- Coldplay — “Life in Technicolor”
- USHER ft. Pitbull — “DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love”
- Third Eye Blind — “Never Let You Go”
A night out turns unexpected
The episode ends with a surprising time jump. While it’s not made clear exactly how much time has passed, it seems to be a few months since Benedict stopped searching for the Lady in Silver. He’s now drinking away his sorrows at a party in a manor just outside of town. But when he spots a group of men harassing a maid, he steps in to save her, and that maid turns out to be Sophie.
With Sophie losing yet another position, she’s determined to find a new job as soon as possible, but Benedict insists on accompanying her back to London in the dark. What could possibly go wrong?
We’re halfway through part 1
Episode 3 kicks off with a stormy start — Benedict and Sophie are on a carriage heading back to London, and the rain is coming down in sheets. Tensions are high, and it seems this journey won’t be as simple as either of them hoped!
A nice little cottage indeed
Benedict and Sophie arrive at one of his cottages to escape the rain and get into the warmth. While he insists he isn’t injured from the earlier scuffle, it’s clear this Bridgerton is a terrible liar. During a bout of night sweats and agonizing pain, Sophie comes to the rescue, carefully bandaging his nasty wound.
Back in Mayfair, the “maid war” has officially begun. Lady Penwood is determined to find a new maid to replace Sophie, whose efficiency has clearly set a high bar…
Even more positive reviews!
Fresh reviews continue to land, strengthening the early positive response to the new season! And I couldn't agree more with the reactions I'm seeing online.
Carly Lane from Collider said "Bridgerton is the best it's ever been in season 4 part 1." She added: "Season 4 is already raising the bar for Bridgerton thanks to a compelling new lead in Yerin Ha, a bigger spotlight on one of the most underappreciated classes in the Regency series' society, and a continued dedication to prioritizing the primary reason viewers keep tuning in time and time again: the seemingly insurmountable journey to a happily ever after."
Speaking the language of love
It’s me again (Martin), taking over posting duties for a little while from Alix, just as Sophie struggles to adjust to her stay at My Cottage. Mrs Crabtree has served up an excellent breakfast, and it's frankly hilarious to see Sophie trying (and failing) to relax at My Cottage. And then the pair’s impromptu French lesson looked ready to heat up… had Mr. Crabtree not interrupted their unbroken gaze to tell our second son off for not being in bed. The next morning, Mrs. Crabtree reminded Sophie to "remember her place" with regards to Benedict and his kindnesses.
Elsewhere, Queen Charlotte’s made it abundantly clear the ongoing “maid war” does not interest her in the slightest, despite the havoc it's causing around town. Colin and Penelope met Francesca and Lord Kilmartin for ice cream, and Lady Featherington had made a blunder trying to appease Mrs. Varley. Maybe she’ll take up that offer of employment after all… — MS
Back to London, back to normality
Well, that was a delightful escape from the pressures of the ton, wasn't it? Episode 3 is my favorite ep so far, as I think it’s a great showcase of the chemistry (and differences) between the pair, even if Ben brushed THAT lakeside kiss off as “improper.” Likewise, the countryside estate setting makes for a nice change of scenery from Mayfair, and I think the snapshots of life back in town are really great showcases of "Bridgerton's" sense of humor, too.
I’m also thrilled to see that sparks have continued to fly between Violet and Lord Anderson, and her and Marcus’s scene here gets bonus points from me for Vitamin String Quartet’s Paramore cover playing under that intimate exchange.
No time to waste, though: Benedict and Sophie are leaving My Cottage behind to return to London, and I’ll be following them into episode 4 imminently to see what’s still to come. With all those reminders of remembering one’s place and their respective social statuses, who knows how the romance will fare back in town? — MS
Hard at work at the Bridgertons' house
We've headed back to Mayfair, and Sophie was at least a little taken aback to find Benedict had brought him to his own family home. Worse, it seemed rumors were swirling that Sophie was not to be trusted... until he revealed she'd saved his life, at least. So, now she's a ladies' maid for Eloise and Hyacinth, on account of that (and her impressive resume!). Benedict's also recommitting to his search for his mystery woman.
Oh, and Gregory's back from Eton, purporting to be a mature man in need of a shave and in possession of more sophisticated tastes — jelly? Absolutely not! — MS
So close, but so far
More than anything else, I think I’ve really enjoyed getting to know many of the members of staff who keep the ton ticking over in season 4. Obviously, I know we’re seeing a lot of this as Sophie’s hard at work in her new home, and it’s all in service of building up Benedict and Sophie’s Cinderella-style romance, but it just adds an extra dimension to the story.
Well, that and Benedict’s foolhardy idea to have his mother employ Sophie is also perfect for keeping the pair in each other’s path; it was worth it for that somber “I do miss our time in the countryside” exchange, right? At the very least, even if they can’t give in to their feelings just yet, Sophie’s decided to stick around for the foreseeable future.
I did not love all this talk of mistresses that Will, Benedict, and Colin were engaged in over a drink, though. I just have this feeling that that conversation is going to spell trouble for our main romance while Benedict continues to search for that woman from the ball… unaware that she’s now living and working in his family’s home. — MS
Enter: Miss Hollis
We’re hurtling towards the end of this season, so here’s another rundown of what’s been in store in the last few minutes. Violet’s got plans to have a private encounter with Lord Anderson, and she’s engineered an encounter between Benedict and the young Miss Hollis (whom Alice suspects is Benedict’s mystery match).
That meeting went south when Sophie walked in, though, leading to an impassioned argument wherein Benedict denies any interest in Miss Hollis, while Sophie tells him to take up residence in his bachelor home and stop spending so much time around Bridgerton House.
Oh, and after Alice was shocked to hear the Queen declare her fit to replace Lady Danbury as her new lady-in-waiting, the pair are currently mid-argument over the position as I'm typing. Alice is furious that she wasn't asked, and Lady Danbury's determined to convince her she's exactly what Queen Charlotte needs. — MS
It’s all over — for now
Well, “passionate” is certainly one way to sum up that last episode, isn’t it? Violet and Lord Anderson have finally spent some alone time, and, of course, Benedict and Sophie had that steamy staircase encounter and finally gave in to their feelings … before Benedict ruined the vibe entirely by asking Sophie to be his mistress. Benedict’s going to have to work very hard to dig himself out of this situation, I’d bet.
I was also genuinely shocked to see Mrs. Varley waiting to welcome Lady Penwood and her daughters back at their estate. I know she was poaching staff from across the ton, and Portia definitely has been taking her housekeeper for granted, but knowing how Lady Penwood treated Sophie, I can’t imagine life at her Mrs Varley's new place of work is going to be anywhere near as comfortable as working for the Featheringtons.
Alas, we now have to wait another month to see how every story here pans out. In the meantime, if you’re keen to see what we made of the first half of this season, be sure to check out our full “Bridgerton” season 4 Part 1 review. — MS
Which Bridgerton siblings are next?
I know that we're only halfway through the current season, but as the wait's officially on for "Bridgerton" season 4 part 2, I figure now's as good a time as any to begin looking a little further ahead.
If you're wondering which Bridgerton sibling showrunner Jess Brownell has lined up imminently, she all but confirmed who's waiting to take center-stage a couple of weeks ago on the red carpet in Paris.
Speaking with Deadline in the video below, she said: "Both characters with the initials on my pocket square [E & F] will get seasons in five and six. In what order, I can't say."
So, while we don't know who's first, that means "Bridgerton" season 5 will either focus on Eloise or Francesca, and season 6 will therefore pick up with the other sibling. Seeing as Eloise has spent this first half of the season putting herself "on the shelf," I can't help but wonder whether Francesca's up next, but that's just my hunch... — MS
#Bridgerton EP/showrunner Jess Brownell confirms that seasons 5 and 6 are Eloise and Francesca’s love stories by pointing out that her pocket-square has the initials E & F embroidered on them pic.twitter.com/1k1eWcTFZTJanuary 14, 2026
What was your favorite moment in 'Bridgerton' season 4 part 1?
From masquerade magic to Bridgerton-level mischief, part 1 had it all. Which moment had you gasping, swooning, or laughing the most? Take our quiz!
Where are Kate and Anthony?!
If you’ve been watching the season today and wondering why Anthony and Kate (Jonathan Bailey and Simone Ashley) have been absent, so far, you might not recall that the duo decided to head to India for the birth of their first child (the Bridgerton’s household staff reminded us of such in the season 4 premiere, too).
However, if you’re missing the loved-up pair, they are due to be back later this season. Per a Deadline report, Bailey has confirmed he had room in his schedule and Netflix has him down as a season 4 regular; the streamer’s also got Kate listed as “additional key cast” for the latest chapter. — MS
What’s the release schedule for ‘Bridgerton’ season 4 part 2?
Now that all four episodes of part 1 are live, you might be wondering when part 2 drops on Netflix. Episodes 5-8 will be available to stream exactly a month from now on Thursday February 26, 2026, starting 12am PT / 3am ET / 8am GMT. This means those in the U.S. may need to stay up late to binge part 2, while those in the U.K will have a Regency-style morning.
Oh, speaking of Kate and Anthony, we got a tiny teaser!
Kate and Anthony Bridgerton and their child in the #Bridgerton s4 part 2 trailer pic.twitter.com/ZxC5bSMxVrJanuary 29, 2026
Netflix has even dropped a very quick tease for "Bridgerton" season 4 part 2 that shows Kate and Anthony briefly with their child, giving fans their first onscreen glimpse of the couple since part 1 explained they were in India welcoming their baby — a “little heir” — off-screen.
This tiny moment hints that their family life will be shown when the second half of season 4 arrives on Feb. 26, 2026.
The cast test how well they know each other
We have a month to wait until part 2 drops, but in the meantime, there are plenty of fun interviews to enjoy. The cast put their knowledge of each other to the test in this Vanity Fair interview, and it’s as entertaining as you’d expect!
‘Bridgerton’ star hints at a ‘tension-filled’ dynamic in season 4
While Colin and Penelope’s romance took center stage at the end of “Bridgerton” season 3, viewers were also left curious about Francesca. Although she quietly married Lord John Stirling, there was an unmistakable spark when she met John’s cousin, Michaela. That brief encounter had fans speculating about what might come next. With Francesca confirmed as one of the leads in the upcoming season, anticipation is high to see how her relationship with Michaela will develop.
Teasing what’s ahead for her character in season 4, series star Hannah Dodd told Radio Times: “What can I say? I think Michaela is a character that challenges Francesca whereas John is a character that makes space for Francesca. They’re both really important for Francesca to move forward. I think Francesca is very inhibited by rules of society and rules she puts on herself and expectations she puts on herself. Michaela throws that away and even in life, in modern day, when you meet that person and you’re like ‘Why don’t you feel like this?’ I think that’s the dynamic between the two of them.
"It’s quite a confronting feeling for Francesca and a new feeling, a challenging one. I just think there’s an exploration of those feelings.”
Reactions are still going strong!
The further we get into the day, the more reviews are being posted online. And they remain positive, which is great to hear! Simon Gallagher from ComicBook said: "Am I saying Bridgerton is tiring out a little as it gets into its fourth chapter? Not really: the standards now are very high, and it will be watched in huge numbers."
Why I love the Cinderella trope for season 4
Knowing that Sophie and Benedict’s love story would center around the Cinderella-style trope had me excited before I even watched the new episodes. It brings that timeless fairytale magic into the show while still giving it fresh emotional depth.
Plus, instead of just presenting a “maid‑meets‑prince” story, it lets Sophie shine as her own person and challenges Benedict to see beyond class and expectation, all while giving us that dreamy masquerade ball moment, the mystery of the silver glove, and that sense of hope and wonder that comes with finding love in the most unexpected way.
Netflix offers a deeper look into the season's 'gorgeous gowns and whimsical wigs'
Netflix gives fans an up-close look at the season’s stunning costumes, from intricate gowns to playful, whimsical wigs, highlighting the creativity and detail that bring the Bridgerton ballroom to life. It’s a feast for the eyes that showcases the show’s signature blend of elegance and fantasy!
What’s your favorite romantic trope so far?
Speaking of tropes, which one has been your favorite so far across all the seasons? Has to be friends-to-lovers for me, simply because it feels more intimate and romantic — you get to see the characters truly understand each other before sparks fly.
Already binge-watched ‘Bridgerton’ season 4 part 1? Here’s what to watch next
If you’ve already had the time to race through “Bridgerton” season 4’s first instalment alongside us at Tom’s Guide, I figured you’re probably already on the lookout for more great shows to stream while we wait for the remaining episodes to arrive.
My first thought for a new and noteworthy pick was Netflix’s ice-skating romantic drama “Finding Her Edge,” which rocketed straight into the top 10 upon its arrival last week. Of course, if we’re talking sports dramas, we also can’t overlook HBO Max’s buzzy hockey romance, “Heated Rivalry,” which has already earned a second season renewal.
A couple of months back, Christina Izzo also recommended “Bridgerton” fans try streaming Alison Newman and Moira Buffini’s period piece, “Harlots,” writing: “the Hulu original immersively transports you to 18th-century London, but instead of busy ballrooms and bustling carriages, the focus is on brothels and the lively and ambitious women who work in them. Along the way, the British series [...] digs into sexual politics, gender norms, class tensions and the harsh realities of the sex trade. It’s also, it must be said, quite a fun watch.”
That’s at least a handful more options to try out between now and the second half of “Bridgerton” season 4. — MS
Take our ‘Bridgerton’ sibling quiz
We’ve now spent an awful lot of time with the many Bridgerton siblings, but if you’ve ever wondered which of the show’s main cast you’re most like, Alix put together this quick quiz to help you uncover your inner Bridgerton and figure out where you’d fit into Netflix’s period drama.
Are you artistic and charming like Benedict or more serious like Anthony? Maybe you have more in common with the inquisitive and intelligent Eloise? You’ll have to play to find out! — MS
‘Bridgerton’ season 4 part 2 episode titles
Part 2 of “Bridgerton” season 4 continues the story with four episodes arriving on Netflix on February 26, 2026. While the runtimes for these later episodes haven’t been officially shared yet, Netflix has revealed each of their titles: “Yes or No”, “The Passing Winter”, “The Beyond”, and “Dance in the Country.” These entries will wrap up Benedict and Sophie’s season of romance and drama.
Here’s a full list:
- Episode 5: “Yes or No”
- Episode 6: "The Passing Winter"
- Episode 7: "The Beyond"
- "Episode 8: "Dance in the Country"
Part 2 awaits!
Well, folks, that's it for our "Bridgerton" season 4 live coverage until part 2 arrives on Feb. 26. But we'll have plenty of articles in the coming days and weeks so you're prepared for the season's end.
