Based on the novels by Julia Quinn, Bridgerton is a hugely successful Netflix period drama that gave the streaming platform some of its best viewing figures of all time. Bridgerton follows the Bridgerton family’s eight siblings as they find love during the Regency era.

While Bridgerton has been watched by millions around the globe and has been well received by audiences and critics, it is not without its issues. From confusing relationship dynamics to changes from the source material, there are many aspects of Bridgerton that divide audiences, making it more difficult for some to continue watching.

10There Are Many Characters

While Bridgerton focuses primarily on the eight siblings in the family, the show includes a huge ensemble of other characters. The Featheringtons, specifically Penelope, feature heavily, as do Lady Danbury and each sibling’s love interests.

The main romance of each season takes up a lot of screentime, but other characters’ stories weave in and out of this story. This often makes it slightly difficult to follow where every character is during the season. Many characters also do not get enough screen time to develop as much as they would with a smaller cast.

9There Will Be Many Seasons

There are eight Bridgerton novels and, judging by how popular the show is, there will likely be at least eight seasons. Because each season focuses on one Bridgerton sibling, fans could find themselves waiting a long time to see their favorite character in the spotlight.

Similarly, when characters like Daphne have already led their own season, there is a chance that they will fade into the background while their other siblings have their moment to shine. Fans may grow attached to characters that become supporting roles.

8The Netflix Series Differs To The Original Novels

Both the first and second seasons of Bridgerton have seen many differences from the source material, Julia Quinn’s novels that have been universally appreciated by viewers. The most noticeable difference between the novels and Bridgerton is the increase of diversity within the cast, which is unarguably a positive thing.

However, fans of the series may find themselves disappointed if they are compelled to read the novels. Additionally, some passionate readers may not like some of the changes made when adapting the books for the small screen.

7Each Season Focuses On One Bridgerton Sibling

Although the other siblings are still present in every season, each season sees one Bridgerton take the spotlight and the others act as supporting characters. In season one, Daphne’s romance with the Duke was the focus, season two saw Anthony pursue Kate Sharma, and season three will focus on Colin’s growing connection to Penelope Featherington.

If audiences find themselves disliking or not connecting to the focal sibling, it could potentially ruin an entire season for them and compel them to not watch the show at all.

6Bridgerton Is Extremely Popular On Social Media

Like many other film and television phenomena (such as the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Euphoria, and Stranger Things), the social media discourse surrounding Bridgerton was frequent and unavoidable, especially when season two was released on Netflix. With the whole season dropping at once, and many binging in the first weekend, spoilers ended up all over social media.

While discussing popular media online can be enjoyable and create communities, it can also completely spoil entire seasons for those who are unable to watch when the show is first released.

5The Mystery Of Lady Whistledown Ends In The First Season

One of the most compelling narratives in Bridgerton‘s first season, outside of Daphne and Simon’s romance, was that of Lady Whistledown. Lady Whistledown was an anonymous figure who released a social pamphlet of gossip in the ton. However, Lady Whistledown is revealed to be Penelope Featherington in the closing moments of the first season.

While many characters are still unaware of her identity, trying to figure out who was behind the name was one of the most enjoyable parts of season one. In some ways, it may feel like that air of mystery is absent from future seasons.

4The Show Is Easily Binged

With gripping narratives, drama, scandal, romance, and the entire season debuting at the same time, it is easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of Bridgerton and bingewatch the entire season in only a few sittings. Although this can be enjoyable and help audiences to avoid seeing spoilers, it also means that the excitement is over quickly.

Also, with there being over a year between the first two seasons and a similar hiatus expected before season three, fans are left to wait a painful amount of time before reuniting with the Bridgertons once again.

3Rege-Jean Page Left Bridgerton After Season One

British actor Rege-Jean Page was one of the breakout stars of the first season of Bridgerton and for many, one of the main draws of the show. Page took on the role of Duke Simon Bassett, the love interest and eventual husband of the season’s protagonist, Daphne Bridgerton.

Fans were gutted when Page announced that he was departing the show, with Simon only being mentioned in passing in the second season. While Daphne and their son Auggie appear in season two, the Duke’s absence is felt, especially because of how prominent a character he was in season one.

2The Episodes Are Long

Many fans found it within their power to sit down and binge the entirety of season two. For others, though, getting through just one episode has proven a struggle. Most episodes of Bridgerton have a runtime of over an hour, which can make it difficult for those with extremely busy lives to watch them in one sitting.

Being taken out of an episode and watching it in multiple parts can affect the way Bridgerton is received and the flow of the story that is being told.

1Future Seasons Have A Lot To Live Up To

Audiences have adored the first two seasons and were drawn to the relationships between Daphne and Simon and Anthony and Kate, as well as the constant drama. Therefore, upcoming seasons have a lot to live up to. The first two seasons have set a high standard, exploring the Bridgerton family and turning the protagonists into truly beloved characters.

However, with less popular characters set to stand in the spotlight in upcoming seasons, Bridgerton will have to contend with its previous seasons and successes, making sure to maintain a high standard of character development.