Bridgerton Season 4 has a major difference between the book it's adapted from, and unlike what fans pointed out previously, the change is deliberate and purposeful.
The book's depiction of Benedict and Sophie's reunion has drawn complaints from many because of how much it strayed away from the source.
Showrunner Jess Brownell spoke about this deliberate change in an interview with Deadline, as she said:
"It was really important in general, for Sophie to have confidants this season, otherwise we don’t get access to her interior life. And also, because she’s a character who has to deal with so much, we just wanted to give her friendship."
"The moment Hazel was added, we liked the idea that, instead of it just being Sophie is a victim in that situation, and Benedict saves her, even though she does, in a way, become a victim after Hazel, she’s actually the hero for Hazel. She gets to be more than just someone who is being assaulted. She gets to also be the hero in a way."
The change is important, as it brings Sophie to a different, stronger light. She is curious, headfirst, and obviously strong, given her tragic backstory and how she deals with the present. With the first part of the show out, fans are already gushing over Benedict and Sophie. The second part will be released in February 2026.
More details about Bridgerton Season 4
The new and highly anticipated season for Bridgerton has officially arrived, and with it comes the long-awaited spotlight on Benedict Bridgerton. Part 1, now streaming on Netflix, opens with a masquerade ball that sets the emotional foundation for the season’s central romance and introduces the woman who will change Benedict’s carefully curated distance from love.
Brownell describes Bridgerton season 4 as a story about balance between two worlds, on one hand Benedict and his shiny life, while Sophie lives mistreated, in fear and in unfair conditions. Actors Luke Thompson and Yerin Ha bring life to the characters of Sophie and Benedict.
As Benedict searches society for the Lady in Silver with help from Eloise, the irony becomes clear because the woman he longs for is right in front of him, working under the control of the formidable Lady Araminta Gun. When fate draws Benedict and Sophie together again, he struggles to connect with the maid before him with a fantasy he cannot let go of.
Bridgerton Season 4 Part 1 is streaming now.