5 Things Bridgerton Season 3 Nailed & 5 Things That Could Have Been Better

[@MsMojo]

What were your favorite and least favorite parts of this season? Let us know below, and make sure to also watch our video of the Top 10 Colin & Penelope Moments on Bridgerton: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fGm9mpSofs5gfK8si=9A6mame3u1vPv8we

[@Shinyeepinee]

Yeah there were too many side plots going on, I really wanted more polin and I wished they kept lady Danbury and pen's friendship from the book in the show

[@vanesagomez9837]

Yesssss

[@JanitaVermeulen]

I did appreciate the small nod to that through Lady Danbury’s intervention with the Queen, though 😊

[@ShinSK]

This!

[@marlena.]

Besides giving side plots too much time... The side plots would've been better if they actually had something to do with the main couple and kept the main couple in focus. Now it all.felt too seperate.

[@alexandracastro6182]

​​​@@marlena. Yes, exactly! Too little Polin time. Too many nonsensical scenes of Benedict getting it on. How was that important? I was able to skip those scenes and It didn't seem to make a difference bc those scenes were so far from the Polin storyline. Those scenes could have easily been polin scenes getting through the whistledown tension😉. Over all where was all the polin love, respect, and support for each other. Where was the greatest friendship development of pen and lady Danbury. Also, I didn't feel like there was any actual resolve between pen and Eloise.

[@tymeburglar86]

I absolutely hated Benedict's storyline and with so many other storylines, they could've shown him less since they didn't know what to do with him. The plot holesof his art career, the boring threesome, pointless romance w/ the blonde. I found myself ffwd thru his scenes.

[@ginalashley1265]

Totally agree!

[@tfernandez6806]

Everyone I know fast forwarded his scenes so stupid

[@mocla2000-jz4qv]

​@@tfernandez6806 this! I don't know anyone who was anything but annoyed by it...

[@SofiiGolding]

Yeah, makes me want him to have something real to run after like a masked Jessie Mei Li. Someone Eurasian? Shake things up to cancel out stupid endless meaningless orgies. He said he was ready for something new, which doesn’t need to be a man. More people are afraid to say anything about that, but it can still be saved. There was a lot I hated about second half of third season. Penelope and Colin made up, but, frigging did it in five seconds. Arghhh. Spent more time not communicating rather than them together. I did FF Benedict sex scenes. Yuck? Too many annoying side plots that most people hated. It just didn’t ply out. Well. That sex scene felt strained. The mirror scene compared to the interaction between the first two seasons. These two are real friends. The carriage scene was good till they destroyed it with a seemingly contrived sex scene. At least compared to the first two seasons. The acting seemed uncomfortable and fake, especially coming on the heels of that very hot carriage scene, which was supposed to come later. I think the big reveal dress didn’t do much after Penelope flubbed her way through conversations anyway. It didn’t work for this viewer, who is getting endlessly frustrated.

[@boayden9971]

Benedict deserved better. The 3some was a good storyline for Season 1 or 2. If his Season is next why didn't season 3 end with the masked Ball and meeting Sophie for the first time. And Franseca meeting Michaela Stirling in Season 4.

[@caylastiles-clark572]

Favourite parts...obviously the carriage scene. Least favourite...anything with Benedict and the fact that they disregarded that in the books Colin forgives Pen alot earlier in the plot. If they had kept that part, then we may have gotten more Polin.

[@sammarie_]

I wish they had kept the plot about Colin’s jealousy and also that they didn’t make his travel journals all about sex. I wanted to hear more about how he felt directionless and how Penelope encouraged him to continue his writing because he IS a good writer.

[@westzed23]

I agree that Benedict's story did not explain his change in his art career. He could have admitted being an artist when asked, or later explained why he gave it up.

[@danielleharris6668]

And it sucks in the books he took over the daily tasks as Viscount

[@sarahc3866]

I was all aboard the Francesca/John train until they weirdly UNDID it by having her fall for his cousin at the very last second, on their wedding day? Right after a disappointing kiss? I do not understand this very very strange choice. Do they think people who like romances enjoy hints of upcoming infidelity right after 'I do'? This has nothing to do with the gender swap. It would have been just as bizarre and gross if she became romantically flustered at a male cousin.

[@TruthisBeauty2007]

Also, WHY was no one from John's family at the wedding (and why did Michaela not know Francesca was John's wife)? It could have been easily explained with John's family being too far away, or John introducing Michaela to Fran but it wasn't even addressed.

[@racheltheradiant4675]

I was looking forward to having Michael come for the wedding rehearsal (like in the book) and Instantly falling for Francesca then having to hide it once he realizes she's his cousin's fiancee. They denied a great scene to the audience and for an actor to portray!

[@shennashepard6750]

I haven’t read the books so I don’t know how that story line progresses. But in the cinematic series, I think they were implying that Francesca, often not being able to “hear” her own voice and having no prior sexual experience, was surprised when she felt nothing sexual or romantic when they kissed for the first time at the Wedding. Then, shortly after, was overcome by strong lesbian attraction when meeting John’s cousin.

[@danielleharris6668]

Unfortunately it negates the proclamation of love we as the audience were forced to endure for 3 and a half episodes...it cheapens the love that her and John shared....so basically their "love story" is a huge lie...that we the audience are now forced to endure

[@kylem519]

ive said it before and ill say it again i miss the flashback moments! i wish we had flashbacks of young polin meeting for the first time, or playing together. or just colin and like maybe how he felt different than his brothers growing up or penelope feeling isolated in her own home. it would be nice to get more background on their characters. i feel like i never really got to know colin other than hes a nice guy and was always traveling...

[@lvshwl]

💯

[@pettybee3860]

I agree with this 100000%. We barely know the guy and it's HIS season 🤣

[@pettybee3860]

You'd think that the couple with the most history would get a flashback scene 😭✋🏽 this season was grossly mishandled

[@Skuldy]

"inserts himself? inserts himself where?" lives rent free in my head XD

[@gdeannecampbell1067]

I was laughing my butt off!! Couldn’t believe just how incredibly dense these two women were. Omg!! 😑

[@Creativinity7]

2976% in agreement with everything stated. I think nearly all fans agree we got too little perfect Polin. Why were we not given more?

[@bethanyschnieder3482]

Period like their love was supposed to be center stage. i feel like a lot of us were robbed.

[@kristinedunner988]

Because the Queer Agenda had to be promoted and "hammered home" by this new little talented showrunner. Apparently Chris Van Heuson (excellent) was too expensive? NO Idea of his sexual preferences..don't care but these queer , nasty women seem to be compelled to boast , be aggressive and change the narrative and plots of the books and "the proof is in the eating"..Poor us and the Bridgeton series😢.

[@evilieeemia7779]

To summarise : Best - all the happy Polin&relationship scenes. Worst - Everything Jess Brownell tried to put her own fanfiction mark on.

[@mariarosacoutinho2837]

Nailed It!

[@GooniesGirl]

Agree 💯 I'll pass on season 4.

[@wigglytoe]

Yep. 💯 they dont care about the book readers anyway…

[@pettybee3860]

Yup, and I still barely know Colin. They kept telling us how great and soft he is. SHOW US. It is a show, is it not? He felt like a prop in his own season and he is the BRIDGERTON.

[@evilieeemia7779]

@@pettybee3860 100% agree.

[@madmartagan100]

I loved Francesca's story line up until they introduced Michaela. It just went out the door to see her fight to merry John, and then in one moment have her just fall for a woman, whom she can't even inherit the land they live on with.

[@cakt1991]

In Scotland, it’s very common for peerages to pass to women in the absence of male heirs. So, that’s not an issue.

[@erinobrien8793]

And ruins Michael and Francesca’s character growth. Francesca dearly loved her husband John. There was no second thoughts about her attraction to him. So disappointed with the show runners trying to be all things to everyone. Francesca’s story now seems like a DEI play.

[@vanesagomez9837]

I completely agree with you

[@madmartagan100]

@@cakt1991 But what year were they able to do that?

[@cakt1991]

@@madmartagan100 Google is your friend. There have been peeresses in their own right for centuries. This isn’t something that only recently changed, like with the Royal family. Catherine Willoughby, fourth wife of the Henry VIII’s best friend was Baroness Willoughby de Eresby in her own right. By act of Parliament, Henrietta Churchill Godolphin, the eldest daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Marlborough (her mother was in The Favourite) was allowed to inherit her father’s titles. Lord Byron’s wife was a baroness in her own right, and her barony actually passed through her daughter Ada (who predeceased her) to *her* children, most closely resembling what occurs with the Featherington baby (which I weirdly haven’t seen anyone complain about, despite that being more inaccurate…funny that 🤔) An example relevant to Scotland and the 19th century: Louisa Tollemache, from a prominent Scottish family of the time became Countess of Dysart in her own right. A fun one if you actually pay attention to the real peerage and didn’t just invoke “historical accuracy” when it’s in response to something you don’t like? Another Scottish peeress of the time was Edith Rawdon-Hastings, 10th Countess of Loudoun, who through accident of birth was descended from what some people consider the “real” line of succession to the British throne (the documentary Britain’s Real Monarch, while flawed in its argument, presents cool ideas). I could go on, but there are many examples, past and present, to justify Michaela succeeding to the title, and it would still be more accurate than half the show.

[@giaelie3283]

Because there was not enough of the Polin relationship this season, I think it's one of the reasons why so many fans shifted their focus onto the actors and began shipping their relationship in real life. There was so much more content of the "couple" during their promotional tour than it was on the actual TV show. Their romantic chemistry wasn't given enough time during the episodes, and fans were left frustrated. I hope this showrunner learns from her mistakes... maybe even give us the rumored deleted Polin scenes we've been hearing about...❤️‍🔥🤞🏽

[@gemmaburman7767]

"There was so much more content of the "couple" during their promotional tour than it was on the actual TV show." The lady tells no lies.

[@reccyre]

Nah the new showrunner needs to leave. She destroyed Benedict and Francesca's story.

[@cynmann4584]

Agree about the show runner. She ruined Benedict and Francesca story. I now actively hate the character of Benedict and he's supposed to be the "gentleman" of Season 4? There's no way to redeem that character. I'm out.

[@Megan-ue4yh]

I loved all the Polin scenes. I disliked how Polin didn't have as much screen time as previous couples in their seasons. In total, Polin only had 78 minutes of screen time in their own season, compared to 113 minutes for Saphne (S1) and 89 minutes for Kanthony (S2). The show is slowly taking focus away of lead couples.

[@happydaze7976]

Daphne had 104 dresses in S1 compared to the few( though very beautiful) dresses Pen had. This alone shows how fewer scenes Polin had in comparison. 😢

[@jenssong117]

I agree with everything! I'm most disappointed that we have the couple with the best onscreen chemistry and the most compelling story and they got sidelined for most of their own season. And the lead who is not "conventionally attractive" (it feels ridiculous for that to even be a thing when Nicola is so stunningly gorgeous) gets the least amount of romance. It feels very unfair. Especially when, and I can't emphasize this enough, Colin and Pen have the BEST chemistry of the series. They were captivating every time they were together. Their intimacy was the most believable of any couple on the show (except maybe Charlotte and George) I understood the tension. I understood the anger over the Whistledown secret (though they really made it a bigger problem than it needed to be). The discord between them was necessary, of course. Penelope's deception is no small thing, but it should have been discovered and resolved way sooner. The blackmail, the Queen's crashing of their wedding, the decision to publicly reveal herself as Lady Whistledown, ALL of that should have happened from a place of Colin having accepted his wife for who she is and them navigating hardships together. Colin's beautiful speech about understanding that Penelope and Whistledown have the same voice - the voice he has loved for longer than he even realized - should have happened after that first night on the couch at the absolute latest. All of the other plots took away from Colin and Pen having more time to be a truly united couple. For us to see them just be friggin happy. Eloise and Cressida I don't consider a side plot because it directly feeds into Penelope's relationship with Colin. But, Benedict and Francesca's stories were way too big to be jammed into another couple's season. I am one of the few who, upon rewatch, wasn't too bothered by the Mondrich story. They are setting them up as friends of the family and not just the dude who owns the bar. Also, Mrs Mondrich is cool and I like her a lot. Plus, of all the side stories, theirs cut into the main Polin story the least. Benedict and Francesca, however, were just crammed in there. Francesca's story could have gotten much less screen time since, by the last episode, it was clear it's just a preamble of bigger stories to come. Or it could have been a secondary plot in the next season where there weren't already so many other things going on. I am so mad at the Benedict story. They reduced this funny, sweet, creative artist to just a dude realizing he's bi. And even that realization took entirely too long. He's going to get his own season ffs. All of this could have waited until it was his turn. He's a beautiful man, but I wanted all of his romantic scenes reassigned to Polin! We were robbed of Polin! The Featherington baby race is so great that, even in a season with too much happening, I can't help but love it. And Violet meeting a hot new man to possibly tend her garden was so cute. And it is a parallel of the main story since she is developing feelings for her best friend's brother. Take out the Benedict stuff. Shorten the Francesca stuff. The balloon scene was not thirst - inducing. It was silly. That part can get cut, too. Much of episode 3 could be cut, tbh. There was so much room to tell a story worthy of two beloved characters played beautifully by two extremely talented actors if the showrunners would have just trusted Colin and Penelope to carry the story. The writing took a noticeable dip in quality this season. I hope the next season makes up for it and gives Polin a healthy side arc to the main story.

[@giaelie3283]

Absolutely!! Couldn't agree more. I believe this new showrunner pushed up the Polin story because she knew of its popularity and passionate fan base. She wanted to make sure of high ratings, thus securing her new job title. It's a clever and strategic move, plus she had all the tools to create a flawless season.. Charismatic, attractive leads with off the charts romantic chemistry, a well written narrative that had been developed over previous seasons, a book and TV fan base that had already been shipping the couple for years..how could she lose!? I think she took the story of the main couple for granted because it had been established before she was hired. As a new showrunner, she felt the need to prove to everyone that she could create compelling storylines and characters on her own. She got overzealous and attempted to do too much too soon. She really needed someone behind the scenes pulling her reigns and reminded her what Bridgerton is about every season..the romantic relationship of One main couple. When I think of how they went back and did quite a bit of reshoots, meaning without them, we would've gotten even Less of Polin than what appears on screen!! In their own Season, no less!! It's obvious she had difficulty transitioning these two side characters from background to center stage. She was lucky to have such talented actors in Luke and Nicola. Every time they were on screen together, it was Electric. All I know is now because this season did so well in the ratings.. She's got till next season and 2 years, apparently, to get her sh%t together. Otherwise, Bridgerton may not survive the Netflix curse of never having a season 5.

[@macduff125]

100% agree! Shocked I didn’t mind the Featherington heir stuff after last year’s Ruby debacle. Very disappointed in Fran and Ben’s stories and lack of screen time and happy Polin. Totally underutilized Nic and Newts.

[@maryp3800]

⁠@@giaelie3283Bloody well said mate.

[@maryp3800]

Spot on with every point. And I must say I’m struggling to summon any interest in Dominic’s season because of his treatment thus far.

[@kimyoonmisurnamefirst7061]

Turning Colin into a rake: Least favorite. I didn't like the other siblings as rakes either, to be clear. I liked him because he was sweet and not a rake. The mirror scene, one of my most favorite. Seeing Pen loved and appreciated was great. I also like Debling a lot, and wish he would come back. He's good for the romantic aces out there, aces, and aro aces... etc... but I know people are split about him. I think he was refreshingly honest especially since he gave the Asparagus fern, which means eternal friendship to Pen.

[@karenpike2420]

I thought this season needed one additional episode. The second half of the season seemed very rushed. I was also surprised that there was no mention of Daphne. How is it possible she would miss the weddings of two of her siblings?

[@johanemb9859]

I said the same thing, too may side stories. They should have added another episode to the season or 2. Why not?

[@perfectlyimperfect2368]

I agree that the polin storyline, which was the entire point of the season,was a big let down. I hated how they were basically at odds the entire second half until the last episode and that other storylines took priority. I just read the book and wish the show would have more closely followed the polin relationship and Colin's reaction to whistledown. Also was let down by the suprise twist at the end of turning Michael into a woman. I've heard so many amazing things about Francesca's book and the plots that are explored so it stinks we aren't going to get the story as it was originally told. I have no issue with an LGBTQIA+ storyline but wish they wouldn't have changed a book love story to tell said story.

[@ThePeskyjay]

Agree. To me it felt as though Colin spent more time annoyed at Penelope than feeling tender towards her, especially once they were a couple. Probably not helped by the amount of time they spent on other stories within the season..

[@perfectlyimperfect2368]

@@ThePeskyjay exactly! It felt way less like a love story than I was expecting. Colin and Penelope had so few couple moments in the second half and I feel their wedding didn't have a lot of joy because of them being at odds. I wish things had been resolved between them before literally the last few minutes of the show! I feel like there has been more love and chemistry during all the press interviews than what was shown on the show. Overall I found the season rather disappointing.

[@crystalpritchard5065]

In confused by the notion that Colin spent “all of part 2” being at odds with Penelope when he didn’t find out that she’s Whistledown until the very end, like the last few seconds, of episode 6. Part 2 had 4 episodes, so for at least 50% of the time he was incredibly kind and affectionate towards her, until he found out, so not in fact “all of part 2”. Their wedding is basically half of episode 7 and he is very kind to her during the ceremony and the wedding breakfast. He could not stop looking at her lovingly throughout the entire ceremony, his little smile and nod when she was walking down the aisle, and he’s not rude to her during the breakfast, they are separated in part because they are talking to guests. Before she approaches him and asks him to dance, he’s making his way towards her when Hyacinth interrupts him. Their dance is another incredibly affectionate part. Finally, in the finale, he defends Penelope to Cressida, showing that he is softening to her, he also continues to stare longingly at her in the bedroom, and after she’s left to see her mother before Francesca’s wedding. His resolve is disappearing, he wants to forgive her, but is struggling. In the study after Francesca’s wedding you can again see his resolve fading and they hold hands. Finally we have him supporting her from sidelines during her speech to the ton and queen, and the amazing declaration of love during the ball, after which he is again incredibly kind and affectionate. Basically, not only is her not rude to her for even one full episode, he’s definitely not at odds with her for the entirety of the second part. And his feelings are valid, she betrayed him. I don’t understand people who thought he’d get over it in minutes. The Whistledown reveal is so much worse in the show than in the books, in the books she hasn’t betrayed him in her writing.

[@zakiya1635]

@crystalprichard... I agree with you 100%. I think people were overly eager for the polin season over hyped themselves so much that the actual season became a let down.

[@biancacelinediane2318]

Agree a 100% to all your comments

[@Dea_2024]

I'll forever lament the loss of Michael!

[@lynncornelius3733]

He was a compelling character!

[@validenough]

#justiceformichaelstirling

[@gdeannecampbell1067]

I’m not looking forward to viewing the next season with this gender swapping that will be taking place. I will most definitely fast forward through that part, that’s for sure!!👍

[@annkatrinengj6420]

It was a real shame that polin was so under used, it was the love story I was most exited for and it had to little of the love it deserved cause they showed the actors could nail it.

[@KalymaDoom]

that's because test audiences didn't like the fact that a "plus size" woman was being romanced and felt it "lacked realism" cuz why would a man that looked like that be into her? they also didn't want more of the spicy scenes from the books for the same reason

[@gigigirl100]

Cressida could not have soared as another Whistledown. That is the whole point, she was cruel and couldn't write very well. It would never have worked.

[@michellejohnston4706]

The thirst trap was actually Penelope and the cupcake lick.

[@bethanyschnieder3482]

Yup, that's right. Colin's reaction says it all tbh. 😂😂😂😊

[@ReeniEspino]

The whole scene could have been filmed and edited to focus more on how Pen was looking at Colin's heroics and that is why she didn't get out of the way. If he was the one to dive in and shield her after making sure the other men were capable with the ropes, it could have helped.

[@theorderofthebees7308]

Lol

[@sallycunningham6987]

Absolutely. He should have been thrown in horny jail the way he was looking at Pen in that scene 😳

[@reccyre]

Nicola and Luke deserved a competent showrunner

[@Wychwood]

This!

[@thechosengirlreviews]

I loved everything with Lady Featherington this season! She's my favorite character and we got more depth with her this season. I loved her talking to Penelope and that scene with her girls "inserts himself where?" was hilarious!

[@theorderofthebees7308]

Yes she awesome and so is Violet ,..

[@MeyaRoseGirl]

I suppose I didn't notice how little Polin there was in the 2nd half because it was still more than Kanthony got in their season. That season was a seriously slow burn, and then we really didn't get to see them together for real until THIS season, but it's all so saccharine it doesn't feel real compared to the friction of last season. (Only the scene where she says he is "wearisome tonight" felt like them.) While I definitely wouldn't say no to more Polin scenes in the second half, I have to say I adored the scene when they ran into each other the night before their wedding. I love how it starts with him pretending he doesn't care, her confronting him, him confronting her, and having it out on everything that they've been avoiding. I love the body language where she's on a step above him, so they're eye to eye but when he tries to go all protective and chastising, he steps up so he's taller than her again, and then it just explodes into a passionate kiss. Finally the scene ends where they actually already look like a married couple with the way he holds her hand, and she goes along willingly when he safely tucks her into a carriage. That felt real. Two people who love eachother passionately and will always choose eachother, but struggling to make the relationship work.

[@racquelrahming498]

I agree with all of it. We should have gotten more romantic Polin. Colin was mad during most of the second half so he shut down and pretty much ignored Pen. But what we did get was very good. We just deserved more happy and passionate Polin.

[@gemmaburman7767]

This was all spot on, apart from wanting to get rid of the Featherington storyline, I highly enjoyed their comedic input this season. For me, they gave too much time to Benedict, Cressida, and the Kents. They didn't edit the story well enough for 8 episodes, and many of the scenes fans wanted probably ended up on the cutting room floor (so to speak). We never got a wedding night, we only got 10 seconds and a baby after the wedding. Benedict got laid more this season than poor Penelope. Newton witnessed more action.

[@mizzfit02]

GIVE US THE DELETED POLIN SCENES!!!!!!! PUT THEM BACK!

[@bethanyschnieder3482]

There was deleted scenes?????? 👀

[@AminaAli-mw3rs]

@@bethanyschnieder3482 apparently Tom Verica the director of the last two episodes said that the deleted scenes are a myth

[@mizzfit02]

@@bethanyschnieder3482 yea….. real steamy ones too.

[@Megan-ue4yh]

Yes please 🙏. Give us the delete scene.

[@Jks_Sherripaiva]

There is no deleted scenes, Lady Whistledown said as much herself on Ig, take that for what it may or may not be gentle viewers

[@AliAngelpie]

I do like that we see more of Lady Danbury’s backstory in this story after we meet her as a young mother and wife and guide to Charlotte in Queen Charlotte, especially since we meet her brother who shows interest in Violet. True it was shoehorned in the story, but Lady Danbury is a strong, respectable character and seeing her life was not always happy shows how she has grown

[@gabrielleduplessis7388]

I wonder if they made that danbury drawing room scene the speech we saw in part 2, it would gave everyone room to breathe and save up time for the scenes we wanted to have.

[@AliAngelpie]

@@gabrielleduplessis7388 Good point

[@TruthisBeauty2007]

Seems like you really had to have seen Queen Charlotte to appreciate that. Glad I did, or I would have never gotten the references made to Violet's father and Lady Danbury.

[@AliAngelpie]

@@TruthisBeauty2007 I’m glad they did bring that back so Violet and Lady Danbury can have closure on the subject

[@laceyg.477]

This is the first season where I really felt like they strayed too far from the books. Especially with Benedict. But overall, Colin forgives Penelope way earlier in the book and she ends up helping him publish his journals. And she also writes her own book. Could’ve handled this season a lot better in my opinion

[@latebloomerabroad]

Agreed that there should have been more Polin! They have such great chemistry. The Mondrich/Kent storyline was a waste; it didn't make sense to insert it this season. Cressida's storyline was interesting and good, though. Francesca & John Sterling took too much attention away from Polin, too.

[@saul.t.2.969]

I’m so peeved that they RUSHED POLIN. It felt like Shondaland was afraid another season was not coming. Polin’s story line would have been wonderful seeing her thru the lens of marriage.

[@Minarzipan]

the most interesting scenes were with Penelope and her mother, seriously well done

[@ohmightywez]

Here's my real question, if you're so certain that you will gain and maintain interest in poly amorous or lesbian regency romances, write and produce an actual interesting story that features the main characters as non-hetero. There are actual real stories from that time period that would make a great story. TELL them. If you're confident in their appeal, MAKE them and let them stand on their own, live or die. What you don't want to do is irritate fans of a series or an entire genre by hijacking stories that other people have enjoyed through some of the most tumultuous times of the past 40 years. People read these books to get them through the pandemic, isolation, depression, fear, loss, etc. These books have introduced new fans to this genre, and some of us have been fans for years. And some of the story lines that Julie Quinn wrote struck a real note with many women, especially Francesca. Women who haven't seen their struggles with fertility and expectations finally felt seen and represented. If you have faith in your story, tell it. Don't kidnap the story lines of a writer who's work has brought joy into people's lives. It shrieks of furious desperation that certain groups refuse to publish their own works based on their own views of romance.

[@wigglytoe]

❤️👌🏼💯💯💯

[@maryp3800]

Agreed

[@SweetLotusDreams]

Totally agree, very well said. Those who shout most about cultural appropriation don’t see that it works both ways.

[@Learningtowakeup]

Collins love confession should have come before the queens acceptance. Also, it should’ve been a private moment between them. That would’ve done a lot to make the wrap up much more satisfying!

[@TheLauren87]

I agree with all of this. Also there's a scene in the book where Pen is editing Colin's journal that's sweet and wholesome. I would have preferred that to some of the side plots. It was good but also disappointing.

[@adalon378]

You nailed it... Especially the last point. I hope they at least compensate in season 4, instead of going back to a full season about Benedict's story... Now it's too late to go back, because Benedict already had a lot of screen time in season 3...

[@shaily191]

Surprisingly i agree with all the points you mentioned. In short, more Polin and less side stories! Thats how it should have been. I loved this season, no doubt ❤ My love for this show is much lol but it could have soo much better. Also, Miss Mojo, did you purposefully did not include Franchesca ending because that was the MAJOR miss in the season. They robbed us of Micheal 😠

[@TruthisBeauty2007]

I agree about the too many side plots and I do think it was somewhat lacking in Polin. I think their relationship was well done, but I did want to see more romance between them. It seemed as if every time they got on the dance floor the camera kept pulling away to other side characters instead of focusing on them the most. The side stories weren't bad in themselves, but there was too much focus on them and yet as you said they weren't fully developed or interesting enough. They could have shown the side stories with a few scenes and not devote continuous arcs, or else dive in fuller into a couple of them (for instance, Lady Danbury's backstory). While I liked Francesca, I didn't find her story all that compelling, for her character is more internal. Since she will get a season herself, I wish they hadn't divided the story evenly between her romance and the main Polin romance. I also didn't feel it was entirely convincing that Pen's mother had a change of heart or that Eloise would be friends with Cressida. However, once I got used to seeing a different side of Cressida (kudos to the actress) it was sad to see her so alone in the end. I also didn't understand why she wouldn't still pursue Lord Debling. I didn't think we needed to see more of her as Lady Whistledown (she's not that clever, and looks like Mom did the writing for her), but her story was anticlimactic. I would have liked to have seen more of those major plot lines filled in. Still, the main story was well done, we just wanted more of that!

[@susansaltos8185]

Lord Debling left town when he realized that Penelope and Colin had feelings for each other.

[@iyiseyirler3732]

I don’t like Benedict and Francesca storylines, what will happen Sophie and Michael?Sofiane! and Michaela are ridiculous

[@bridiemcloughlin8326]

I feel like it's "for the sake of it" writing. There needs to be new characters for representing, not changing existing characters.

[@gdeannecampbell1067]

I’m not going to give this twist an audience. I’m most definitely NOT okay with this gender swapping nonsense.

[@pratisthaprasad7091]

Bring back Michael

[@prettyeyes3990]

The lack of Colin and Pen’s forgiveness, make-up sex, post wedding life…more Polin after all it was their story. I feel bad for the way Benedict was treated throughout Season 3. They better do right by him in Season 4.

[@anyabukhovetskaya]

love declarations - NAILED IT yearning - NAILED IT loving and knowing yourself before stepping into a meaningful relationship - NAILED IT

[@jacobmontesano4332]

I think the one thing that was done very well was setting up Eloise's future. I think that going to Scotland will give her a new outlook and maybe even start her correspondence with a certain someone... Or maybe she comes back to London during Benedict's season and begins corresponding with that someone there. They haven't really introduced that side of Eloise yet so I'm guessing that'll begin in season 4. However, even if they change her story from the book (hopefully not COMPLETELY cause I enjoyed it a lot), I still am thrilled for her season cause even her relationship with Theo was captivating at that was only a small side plot.

[@ElleFawning]

I personally think the producers didn't have much confidence in the Polin fans or in general, the Bridgerton audience for this season, given that the main actress is "unconventional", thus adding lots of subplots to keep everyone happy, but it backfired bigtime. I find it ironic how they are pushing for inclusivity in LGBTQ aspect but cannot fully embrace the fact that their lead actress is not "fit enough" to shine in HER OWN story. So much for embracing all genders but not all sizes, huh? It's just so disappointing how everyone gets a longer screentime than the leads!

[@rvpt3081]

Bravo

[@earningyourearswithkristin878]

The editors need to go back and redo the second part and release it. They need to face the fact that the director and editors messed up and followed too many plot lines and too little the main couple. It’s a same since Nic and Luke promote the shit out of their season yet they were robbed of their own season.

[@EdwinaAkindele-Obe]

I enjoyed the bond and respect that developed between Penelope and her Mom ❤

[@TruthisBeauty2007]

LOVED Penelope's transformation and growth in confidence (including her dresses) LOVED seeing Kanthony happy and silly intense Anthony (wouldn't mind more of him "vexing" her though!) LOVED Eloise's gradual forgiving of Pen LOVED the convincing portrayal of friends to lovers LOVED seeing Eloise and Benedict again on the swings LOVED seeing Violet learning to let go and more subtly interfere with her kids TOO MUCH emphasis on Violet's love life TOO MUCH Lady Tilley TOO MUCH focus on Francesca's finding a husband TOO MUCH Featherington silly sisters (it was funny, but there was too much). TOO MUCH focus on the side stories, and yet they were underdeveloped NOT ENOUGH of Lady Danbury and brother backstory (seemed like there was more to it, and then there wasn't) TOO MUCH nudity NOT ENOUGH romance

[@ElleFawning]

With all this mess with the showrunner, I wouldn't be surprised if Bridgerton will not be renewed even before Francesca season with gender swapping. 😅

[@lisadyer7917]

Totally agree!! They have completely ruin the story.. I will not be watching anymore.. totally ruin my love of the show.. writers need to go!!

[@raivisbane6764]

Did anyone else notice Penelope’s song while walking down the aisle was “yellow” by Coldplay I thought that was pretty good.

[@npats550]

Sorry- I prefer to comment as I go, so if it seems like I have repeated something- it's just ppl having the same idea. For me...The shine was 1. Pen. She was great, looked beautiful, and Nicola is fantastic at acting. 2. Also - Colin standing up to her mother. 3. Portia- over the years, she has had moments of brilliant insight and experience- she does love and want more for her kids, but as a single mother to girls in that time...she did the best she could and new. 3. Violet and her "blooming garden", and discussions with Lady Danbury. I really hope they do a spin off with these 2- like they did with Queen Charlotte. Especially as Agatha's brother is there to explore the gardens... 4. Kantony- I loved everything about Kate, but especially her costume accents, with a huge nod to her Indian heritage. And she looked radiant, and even more gorgeous. 5.One of the best scenes that I have no idea how they kept a straight face, Portia explaining "marital relations", or "Sex education for dummies!" The misses and disappointments. 1. Benedict and the whole bisexuality. It seemed like because it should be his season, but everyone (including me), were wanting Polin, it didn't really advance his character or story. They could have at least included the first part of his story. That and it would have made sense if it was in season 1, when he discovered the artist (Weatherby?), or season 2 in the art academy. A little like the new showrunner explained, Francesca being attracted to Michaela. "I saw a lot of myself in Francesca so I made her queer." Not a good reason to change plots and characters imho. It's not about the gender identity or sexuality that made it a bit much, just how it affected plot and character arcs. If that makes sense. 2. Too many subplots. 3. Too little, or NONE of Daphne, and we didn't get to know Francesca well before her season ended with marriage, although I know that it could be foreshadowing for the books... All just my opinion.

[@cathcd2521]

This video is exactly how I feel about the season, it's like you read my mind ! ;) I don't mind the subplots (except Benedict's, which IMO was an epic fail), but if they wanted to add so much content, a couple more episodes were necessary.

[@MadalaineVL]

I wss so disappointed that the subplots took away from more scenes of Polin. I think this season really did a disservice to the fans. If each season is going to focus on a pairing, then this is all we get of them, which makes me upset. Was so looking forward to their romance (my favorite couple) and we basically got shafted

[@cynthiabrown4327]

I’m glad I’m not the only one who felt like there wasn’t enough time spent on the main plot. The first two seasons were focused on the main characters but third season seemed to be EVERYWHERE!

[@voulafisentzidis8830]

Thanks Shondaland for your changes to my three favourite Julia Quinn books. I no longer have to watch the show which has returned to me the lost 24 hours.

[@Kim-ri1hg]

Polin. That’s it. That’s all I wanted to see.

[@luisaz3570]

Totally agree with you. That there was just way too much going on this season. Polin had pretty great chemistry, and it would have been nice to have seen them have more romantic couole moments.

[@AuntieM27]

It was sheer stupidity on the part of the writer(s) to send Anthony and Kate off to India in her condition, but to make no mention at all of their child was thoughtlessness beyond measure. Nor did Daphne and Simon even get s mention and Daphne is still a member of this "close" family. No continuity on the part of the writers.

[@ThomasitaTaylor]

Bring back Chris van Duden as show runner!

[@ShortFuseSab]

Honestly, I'm not mad about all the side plots, I'm mad they shoved them into 8 episodes. If they had added one episode to each half of the season I think that would have given more time for the plot to actually develop.

[@joannbanks9963]

Yes!!

[@RefractedReflections]

Exactly my thoughts

[@jirafstudio]

I live in New Mexico. One time when I attended the Albuquerque balloon fiesta, which attracts 1 million visitors, an errant balloon almost decapitated my mom. So much more dangerous than you would think.

[@courtneylenius5410]

This show has completely changed, the new showrunner is not good at her job. I miss the original creator/showrunner who seemed to have a clear vision and focused on romance and the main story over the drama and a million little side plots. Not to mention the respect for the source material. This season was unfocused, unpolished, and had so many extraneous plots and strange production/writing/editing decisions made. It killed all my love for future seasons because of how awful it really was

[@marionandrews176]

100% agree with your assessment. The new writer/show runner is a disaster. She did do a fantastic job of destroying an epic series. It’s a shame because the casting for Bridgerton was great. I hope someone (not Netflix) takes up the mantle and adapts another historical romance series, but sticks to the source material in regard to storyline (love the show’s racial diversity).

[@lvshwl]

@@marionandrews176yes because Shonda wants Polin to be the main couple this season . But in books Benedict should be the next inline. Plot is changed. Others characters story time line is mixed. Totally this season is good satisfying but not great as earlier seasons 🫢😖

[@cynmann4584]

Well said and I'm in agreement. Such high expectations for this third season. Such disappointment in the show. Where did Bridgerton go? The show was unrecognizable as the main story was lost in thwthe weeds due to so many unrelated storylines. I'm done.

[@tesstucker3311]

Season 2 was even worse with side scenes of the Featheringtons which I hated amongst an otherwise awesome storyline of Kate & Anthony, but honestly it made Pen’s words to her mother at the end of this season so much stronger. Knowing she was able to help her mother be better and support her family made the ridiculousness of the family’s antics in the previous season kind of worth it.

[@aaronmicahzamora9249]

We need a Featherington spinoff with Portia's backstory in flashbacks ❤

[@Megan-ue4yh]

Bridgerton is based on romances novels and a large part of the appeal is the spicy scenes. Readers/viewers/fans expect that and wish for that considering it is a staple of the genre. The fact that we only got their first time is a disservice. We miss the progression of their relationship as it relates to sex. I want to see Penelope's exploration and discovery of her sexuality through this relationship with Colin. I want to see Colin's journey of discovering his fulfillment in a committed, loving relationship as it pertains to sex whereas before any sexual encounters that he had left him feeling hollow and empty. I wanted to see that progression and growth as individuals and as a couple. I wanted to see that bond and watch them learn things about each other and see the different elements of their personality and their dynamic reflected in their intimate encounters. A proper sex scene, post Whistledown would show them fully excepting each other (true colors as they say) and making that decision to go through life together. Only seeing their first time was disappointing (although great) because there was this secret that was holding them back from being the best version of themselves and the incredible couple that they are, so once that obstacle is eliminated I would have liked to have seen a sexual follow-up from that. I was disappointed given it was so hyped.

[@WomanRoaring]

What I didn’t like this season are the things you pointed out. The important parts seemed rushed, the season could have been longer. The side characters didn’t get enough screen time either. I was getting invested in them but then, poof they’re not around. I know the saying, leave them wanting more but it should be in an exciting way not a disappointed way. I loved that Penelope got her man and he felt the same way but ya they didn’t get enough screen time.

[@obiecat3341]

Don’t like the change in Francesca ‘s storyline. Michael should not be michaela ‘

[@sarahvenable4710]

I didn't like that we got so little of Polin, but I did love what we did, especially the entire wedding!!! I think they were about quality over quantity with Polin, and I didn't hate it.

[@ckaydw]

That’s what I didn’t like at all. I wanted more Colin and Penelope. This was suppose to be about them. They had Colin mad at Penelope most of the second part. Which sucked. I understand they had a new writer this season and to me she really messed up a lot on part two. They need to do a part just about them like they did for the queen. Demand for more Colin and Penelope

[@vaidehibhongale733]

Netflix using Nicola to promote bridgerton 3 as a inclusive media with different body type being showcased in positive light and then in actuality showing only one scene thus proving once again if you're not the body type they want you don't get screentime

[@sweetsoulhawai]

The classical rendition of confident by archer marsh was the best

[@abhilashasingh672]

As a viewer i believe that showrunners have made Benedict' s character useless n i already hate about what they did to francessca's storyline they think its diversity but they absolutely ruined it n are not even bothered because the success of the show has taken them to cloud 9 i would have not disappointed if they decided to make Eloise queer but why Francesca when her storyline if so so much deeper and complicated than any other siblings

[@Stephanie.Hudson]

I would not hate the diversity they’re wanting to show if they hadn’t already promised readers that the characters would end up with who they did in the book. Changing Michael to Michaela changes Francesca’s storyline too much, IMO. Also, as a lover of romance novels, seeing Violet with a new love interest after Edmund seems wrong. She’s stated throughout the entire series how she wants her kids to have a love like theirs, but this season she’s swayed toward a mediocre love after seeing Francesca with John. I’m sorry I don’t like it. If you’re going to do that storyline, by all means do it outside of the Bridgerton series where it would fit better. This season just wasn’t it for me. I skip through scenes and I’ve tried but I was disappointed.

[@teganwho8653]

Needed much more Colin & Penelope’s character development and relationship (Polin❤) way too many subplots that weren’t even necessary to go into this season

[@Ymills_21193]

1:23 Jess Brownell ruined his and Fran’s story in my opinion. She did not due this season justice

[@justinelord95]

Overall I enjoyed season 3, it has the most love declarations from the male lead of any season so far. Colin you romantic lover boy ❤ Do I wish more things had been included or done differently? ….YES -A ‘meet cute’ moment between a younger Colin & Pen. It would have given Polin’s love story so much more depth. - More intimate scenes especially post Lady Whistledown reveal. Let’s be for real here they’re adapting romance novels…the sexiness is often integral in informing the characterisation. We didn’t get to see post LW reveal how that looks for Polin. Apart from the blink & you miss it scene on the bed. - The side plots should have been woven into the main characters storyline more rather than having them as a seperate thing. Love the Mondridge family but so much time was spent on them which I believe should have gone to Polin - higher stakes in Colin’s balloon rescue moment giving it some real consequences unfortunately it comes across as very contrived. We don’t feel the feels here. But otherwise I enjoyed Season 3 Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton along with the crew did an amazing job!! Thanks #Bridgerton

[@cakt1991]

I liked all the side plots, and the show has always had them, but I feel like the restricting the show to eight episodes doesn’t give all of them time to breathe. Prior to this, when Shondaland was producing for ABC, they did 20-ish episode-shows, which seem to have suited their multilayered, ensemble drama style of storytelling better. Even expanding to 10 or 12 episodes might give the stories more room to breathe.

[@jaemhi]

i think for this season, the thirst trap scene was more for penelope than it is for colin. that cake scene was just... 🎉

[@pammielocs_withlove5908]

Definitely could have used more Polin screen time. There was too much screen time on Benedict and his throuple activities.

[@Nasia.D]

Polin will forever be my favorite couple. But we were robed of them I really wanted chapter 20 scene from the book, it really showcases their true friendship and how they see each other like no one else does. i reaaly needed a happy polin married scene .

[@ellenmogensen5698]

Benedict’s story was a waste of time... three-somes are NOT romantic! I could not watch that perverted junk without cringing. There were so many better things they could have done with that time! Like Penelope and Colin reading his journal in bed. Like Mr Dankworth explaining to Colin how he and Prudence got together (since that was never shown). Plus too many story lines crammed into one season. It would have been better if this season was Colin and Penelope and next season was Francesca and John without Michaela.

[@paulaarriaga7574]

Loved: Polin Love declarations Colin jealous Wedding Pen-Eloise friendship Mama Bridgerton advices

[@TruthisBeauty2007]

YES to ALL! Though I did wonder why Violet didn't (try) to advise Eloise (because you know she would have just evaded her.

[@WishYouWereHere7572]

I wanted a better ending for Cressida. I wanted someone to help her escape.

[@joannesmith2484]

I think she will come back as either a wealthy widow or with a wealthy, doddering old man husband left back in Wales as she comes back to show everyone up. Probably marrying some wealthy octogenarian acquaintance of Aunt Joanna.

[@hotplasma]

In Colin & Penelope's book, Cressida was already a widow. Netflix' has clearly put surprise spins on things. I actually enjoy the surprise elements.

[@happiestplace3754]

Sometimes villains need their comeuppance.

[@TeaganLouise]

Part 1 of the season was great and then part 2 was soooo lackluster in comparison. Too many plots going on at once, not enough time around Penelope and Colin to flesh out their relationship more, if they didn't know what to do with Benedict they should have just shown less of him (I started to fast forward through his scenes, they became boring), the change that Michael is now Michaela, like??? What is even happening, I don't have high hopes for S4 if this is what we've been given.

[@mns24]

The biggest letdown was Michaela

[@margaritapeeva9181]

In my opinion the Lady Whistledown issue was done very well. However, the first 4 episodes had SO LITTLE Polin, it was almost criminal to me. Also, once the issue was resolved, I think we needed at least one more episode or epilogue or longer screen time for our MAIN COUPLE. As a fan, I felt starved.

[@jennienguyen6749]

All yes! This season was distracting. I ended up standing up and leaving the room a lot.

[@ohmightywez]

I fast forwarded through the gratuitous plot points that failed to move the story forward in an interesting and relatable way.

[@morganleanderblake678]

I feel like the balloon scene COULD have worked, if you just added some servants shaking their head at the end going, "...why did they have to--" If you leaned into the "indolent people without profession have no idea what they're doing" thing, it could look like adorable toddlers freaking out. And give someone like Varley a moment to sigh and rub her head.

[@Lost_feline613]

I absolutely hate what they did to Penelope’s and Eloise’s friendship

[@skyegypze3982]

I was disappointed. Obviously the acting was not the issue. They just crammed to many things into this season. And didn’t give us enough of the main couple. Everything was so rushed….And The clothes were too sparkly, they too had too much going on.

[@ruthrivera6199]

I agree with most of your picks except the balloon scene. To me Luke/Colin looked really good during that scene. 😊

[@haylinspower]

I want Benedict with Sophie for season four so badlyyy😭

[@elaineng1869]

They delayed Benedict’s story for Polin so why did they cut their story short by adding all these subplots? Subplots that changes entire stories (like Francesca and possibly Benedicts). This has been the most aggravating season. Don’t know if it’s worth waiting until 2026 to watch a messed up season 4…

[@rvpt3081]

Thank you for saying it on your channel. It seems the producers are deaf to the fans! There were more intimate scenes with the thruple than Polin. In the book they are magnificent together but it felt as if the had no trust that the intimate scenes between them could rival the first two seasons. Very wrong and very disappointing

[@ericaspurlock4459]

You all nailed this list! I agree 💯.

[@racheltheradiant4675]

I dislike that they left out Penelope Father's solicitor. He's the one who helped her get her column published. In this version they didn't tell us how she did it, must have been magic.

[@aliciamathura7760]

They nailed the wedding scene as well!!

[@TheOriginalYouTuberTheMonkey]

They nailed being the focal point of Doctor Who Season 14 Episode Rogue

[@denisadellinger4543]

Yes. More Polin. Less Benedict sandwich.

[@kdbee6086]

Some things this season did beautifully. Some were a total bomb. I hope the showrunners can get this story back on the same track with the first two seasons.

[@janeenharrison1953]

Yas, girl! Tell 'em! We need MORE steamy scenes with Colin & Penelope.❤‍🔥❤‍🔥❤‍🔥

[@michellecnebrown6792]

Season 3 was adequate enough. My main Complaint... I LOVED the art scenes and the art SCENE they had created in season 1. Abandoning that...? Artist don't do that. Not without some trial /tribulation and reason. Art fleshed out Ben's character:(

[@piatonigalli9430]

Yes, yes, yes! Colin and Penelope's love story was such a small part of the show! Very disappointing