The Bridgerton backlash is ridiculous – Francesca is the perfect season 5 lead
The Bridgerton backlash is ridiculous – Francesca is the perfect season 5 lead
Upon learning that Francesca (Hannah Dodd) and Michaela (Masali Baduza) would headline season five of Bridgerton, I was thrilled. However, the broader fanbase swiftly tempered my enthusiasm with waves of criticism.
A quick glance at social media reveals countless expressions of dismay, splitting into two main factions: those lamenting Eloise’s romance being delayed to a future season and others displaying outright hostility, accusing the show of leaning too heavily into sapphic narratives. Much of this frustration centers on Claudia Jessie’s character, Eloise, who has long resisted the marriage market.
While some argue Francesca needs more time to grieve John’s loss, the two-year time jump feels excessive. Several additional episodes of mourning, I believe, would add little value. Eloise, too, has her own arc to develop, and she will have ample room in season five. Though her character has appeared stagnant lately, this is not the first instance of the show diverging from the books.
For example, Colin and Benedict were swapped in earlier seasons, allowing Benedict to evolve and resolving Colin’s tension with Penelope. This change also helped explore a similar dynamic between Francesca and Michaela. So, while Eloise’s storyline might have been ideal for an earlier season, it’s far from a wasted opportunity.
“Why can’t they just stick to the ‘tradition’ of relationships in that period?”
“We do not have to make everything we watch gay.”
The criticism against Francesca and Michaela’s romance has been simmering since Michaela’s introduction at the end of season three in 2024. This backlash is steeped in homophobia, often tinged with misogynoir, as fans question the necessity of LGBTQ+ storylines in a historical series.
Yet, LGBTQ+ characters have long been part of the Bridgerton universe, albeit as secondary plots. Benedict’s bisexuality and the romance between Brimsley and Reynold in the Queen Charlotte spin-off are prime examples. These moments were generally met with approval, making the current outrage toward Franchaela all the more disheartening.
Some fans claim Francesca’s female love interest undermines her infertility arc from When He Was Wicked. This argument seems disingenuous, as the struggle for motherhood is equally relevant to same-sex couples. The 1800s setting also adds layers of complexity, offering a broader canvas for representation.
If I had my way, Eloise would lead a different women-loving-women storyline, but the show’s choice for season five is valid. Fans should focus on the potential for her character growth and the romance with Sir Phillip Crane, a key figure in the books who has yet to reappear. The backlash, while loud, is not the final chapter for Eloise or her story.
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