Netflix has officially announced that Season 5 of Bridgerton, the acclaimed period drama based on Julia Quinn's novels, will be released in 2027. This season will shift focus to Francesca Bridgerton, played by Hannah Dodd, and Michaela Stirling, portrayed by Masali Baduza. The storyline picks up two years after the death of Lord John Stirling, which left both women grappling with their grief. The new season will not only highlight their emotional journey but also represent the series' first same-gender central love story. In a statement, Dodd expressed her excitement for Francesca's journey toward finding love, emphasizing the importance of portraying queer love in period dramas. Alongside the returning cast, Season 5 will introduce new actors, including Tega Alexander, Jacqueline Boatswain, and Gemma Knight Jones. The series was renewed for both Season 5 and Season 6 in May 2025, with future seasons expected to explore the remaining Bridgerton siblings' romantic arcs.