Bridgerton is finally celebrating a lesbian romance – the homophobic reactions are gutting
Bridgerton is finally celebrating a lesbian romance – the homophobic reactions are gutting
When I first spotted that Francesca (Hannah Dodd) and Michaela (Masali Baduza) would headline season five of Bridgerton, I felt elated. The news signaled a long-awaited shift toward inclusivity in the Regency-era series, which had long been praised for its lavish costumes and intricate social dynamics.
The rest of the Bridgerton fandom, often referred to as ‘so-called’ fans, swiftly tempered my enthusiasm. A quick scroll through social media reveals countless horrified reactions, typically divided into two categories: disappointment over Eloise’s story being delayed or outright homophobia directed at the show for daring to feature a sapphic romance.
The ripple effect of a new storyline
Many of the discontent stems from Claudia Jessie’s character, Eloise, who has been resisting traditional marriage expectations since the series began. While some viewers lamented her love story being moved to season five, others focused their frustration on the perceived marginalization of Eloise’s arc.
Though I wouldn’t have opposed Eloise’s narrative being explored next, I believe the emotional investment in her storyline may be overstated. Francesca’s arc, including her marriage to John, introduction to Michaela, and John’s tragic death, has already been fully developed across two seasons. The foundation for her romance was clearly laid, making the extended timeline seem redundant.
Conversely, Eloise deserves the same space to evolve. Her relationship with Sir Phillip Crane, a key love interest in the books, will have ample opportunity to unfold in season five. While her character has felt repetitive in recent episodes, this is not a reason to dismiss her potential for growth. The show has previously altered timelines from the source material, such as swapping Colin and Benedict’s storylines, which enriched Benedict’s development and resolved Colin and Penelope’s romantic tension.
Francesca’s storyline, including her marriage to John, introduction to Michaela and John’s subsequent death, has already been told across two seasons. Frankly, the seeds for their romance, unlike Eloise’s, are firmly planted. To drag it out over another season makes little sense.
Some fans argued that Francesca needed more time to grieve John, citing the two-year timeline jump. Yet I struggle to see how additional episodes of mourning would add much value. Eloise, meanwhile, is poised to take on a more active role in her own journey, potentially embracing the rebellious spirit that defined her earlier episodes—like her clandestine visits to Theo and advocacy for societal change, including gay marriage.
The backlash against the Franchaela romance has been simmering since Michaela first appeared at the end of season three in 2024. This frustration has been amplified by a mix of misogynoir and traditionalist views, with comments like, ‘why can’t they just stick to the “tradition” of relationships in that period’ and ‘We do not have to make everything we watch gay’ becoming increasingly common.
Among the outright bigotry, fans especially complained that giving Francesca a female love interest will undermine the infertility plotline she underwent in the book, When He Was Wicked. It seems a disingenuous complaint since this struggle has already been discussed, and it is point-blank ignorance to believe that it is not an issue a same-sex couple would also face.
While the 1800s setting does add complexity, it also offers a richer canvas for representing diverse relationships. For example, a same-sex couple would need to navigate additional societal barriers, such as limited medical advancements, which could be a compelling narrative angle. I hope Eloise fans will temper their righteous fury and allow the leads to receive the support they deserve.
Meanwhile, Bridgerton fans will continue to follow Eloise’s romance, ensuring it remains a focal point. The show’s popularity means the backlash, while significant, is unlikely to deter its progress. A girl can dream, after all—especially if it includes a story that challenges norms and celebrates love in all its forms.
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