Netflix have this week released a slew of first look picture from their upcoming original series, Bridgerton, inspired by Julia Quinn’s novels.
The show will be the first to come from Rhimes' production company, Shondaland, and is created by longtime Shonda Rhimes collaborator, Chris Van Dusen (Scandal, Grey's Anatomy).
Bridgerton tells the story of the powerful, titular family and in particular, Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor).
As she makes her debut onto the competitive marriage market of Regency London, she has ambitions of following in her parents’ footsteps, finding her one true love.
Though she has many unrivalled prospects, Daphne's older brother begins to rule out potential suitors, whilst the mysterious Lady Whistledown (voiced by Julie Andrews) casts aspersions on Daphne with her high society scandal sheet.
The search for a match intensifies when the highly desirable, yet utterly rebellious Duke of Hastings (Regé-Jean Page) enters the scene.
Regarded as the catch of the season for the debutantes' mamas, it’ll take everybody by surprise when Daphne appears to win his heart.
Though both claim they want nothing to do with the other, their attraction is undeniable.
As they find themselves in an increasing battle of wits, they're forced to navigate society's expectations for their future.
Expect romance, scandal and, a large dose of humour.
Netflix say Bridgerton is a "quick-witted series that celebrates the timelessness of enduring friendships, families finding their way, and the search for a love that conquers all.”
Golda Rosheuvel, Jonathan Bailey, Luke Newton, Luke Thompson, Claudia Jessie, Nicola Coughlan, Ruby Barker, Sabrina Bartlett, Ruth Gemmell, Adjoa Andoh, Polly Walker, Bessie Carter and Harriet Cains all also star.
Bridgerton will mark the first release from Shonda Rhimes’ production company Shondaland, following a landmark deal the streaming service reached with the showrunner back in 2017.
The multi-year development agreement meant that all of Rhimes' future productions would be classed as Netflix Originals.
It came after the platform purchased US streaming rights to past episodes of Grey's Anatomy and Scandal, with Netflix CCO describing Rhimes as a "true Netflixer at heart", since "she loves TV and films, she cares passionately about her work, and she delivers for her audience."
Rhimes added at the time: "[Sarandos] understood what I was looking for - the opportunity to build a vibrant new storytelling home for writers with the unique creative freedom and instantaneous global reach provided by Netflix's singular sense of innovation. The future of Shondaland at Netflix has limitless possibilities.”
Another project currently in the works under the deal is an adaptation of New York Magazine story, How Anna Delvey Tricked New York's Party People.
The feature was originally written by Jessica Pressler, based on the real-life story of society fraud Anna Delvey.
The show - named Inventing Anna - will star Julia Garner as Delvey, alongside an all-star cast that includes Anna Chlumsky, Katie Lowes and Laverne Cox.
For now though, we look forward to settling down on Christmas Day evening with a fantastic new Shondaland series to enjoy!
Bridgerton comes exclusively to Netflix on Christmas Day, December 25th 2020.
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