Bridgerton Season 5 Will Focus on a Heartfelt Female Love Story as Filming Begins

Masali Baduza and Hannah Dodd Cast as Leads in ‘Bridgerton’ Season 5

Filming has commenced for Season 5 of the popular Netflix series “Bridgerton,” featuring Masali Baduza and Hannah Dodd in leading romantic roles. The production is taking place in the UK.

The upcoming season, produced by Shondaland and inspired by Julia Quinn’s novels, centers on Francesca Bridgerton, portrayed by Dodd. After the death of her husband, John, two years ago, Francesca considers re-entering the marriage market for practical reasons.

However, complications arise when John’s cousin, Michaela, played by Baduza, returns to London to manage the Kilmartin estate. Francesca is torn between her practical intentions and her emerging feelings for Michaela.

Dodd took over the role of Francesca from Ruby Stokes following the third season, where viewers witnessed Francesca’s journey of loss and love. Fans of Quinn’s book “When He Was Wicked” will recognize the evolution of Francesca’s character, who falls for Michael, John’s cousin. This season also introduced a gender-bending aspect by casting Baduza as Michaela Stirling, a character introduced in the season finale.

In May 2025, Netflix renewed “Bridgerton” for both Season 5 and Season 6. Season 4 premiered earlier this year, focusing on Benedict Bridgerton and Sophie Baek, but a premiere date for Season 5 has yet to be announced. Traditionally, the series returns every other year, indicating a potential early 2028 release.

The executive producers for the series include Shonda Rhimes, Betsy Beers, Tom Verica, and Chris Van Dusen.