Curiosity around the sexuality of Francesca Bridgerton, a character from the popular Netflix series “Bridgerton,” has sparked much discussion among fans. In this article, we delve into the speculations and hints about Francesca’s possible LGBTQ identity.
As the series continues to provide diverse representation, it’s an opportunity to explore important conversations about sexuality, especially for younger viewers. We also offer insights from sex and relationships expert, Dr. Tara Suwinyattichaiporn, on how to navigate discussions about coming out and LGBTQ topics, making it easier for parents and teens to engage in meaningful dialogues while watching the show.
Is Francesca Bridgerton Gay?
In Julia Quinn’s “Bridgerton” book series, Francesca Bridgerton is portrayed as a heterosexual character. She marries twice within the series, first to John Stirling, the Earl of Kilmartin, and then to Michael Stirling, John’s cousin. There is no indication in the books that Francesca is gay.
In the Netflix adaptation of “Bridgerton,” her character’s sexual orientation is consistent with the books, but it’s important to note that adaptations can sometimes introduce new storylines or character developments. As of now, there have been no significant deviations in this regard.
If there are specific developments or interpretations in fan fiction or other adaptations, they might differ, but the original source material presents Francesca as heterosexual.
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Julia Quinn addressed Netflix swapping Michael for Michaela.
While many Bridgerton fans were surprised by the gender swap, which clearly deviates from the book’s plot, others expressed disappointment. Author Julia Quinn took to Facebook to address the decision.
“Many Bridgerton fans have expressed their surprise, and for some, disappointment in the twist at the end of Bridgerton Season 3 — that Michael Stirling, with whom Francesca eventually falls in love in When He Was Wicked, would instead be Michaela,” she begins.
While she admits that “switching the gender of a major character is a huge change,” she says she “needed more information before conferring [her] agreement,” after Jess approached her with the idea.
Julia emphasized that “Francesca’s abiding love for John be shown on screen” and that she wanted viewers to witness “how deeply she loved John, and how deeply Michael, his cousin, also loved him.”
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Without showing these dynamics on screen, Julia says “their feelings of guilt at falling in love with each other after John’s death made no sense. I didn’t want to just tell the reader that they loved him. I wanted the reader to feel it.” So, after some back and forth, Julia eventually agreed to the change.
And after Part 2 of Season 3 of Bridgerton debuted on June 13, 2024, Julia says she is “confident now that when Francesca has her Bridgerton season, it will be the most emotional and heart-wrenching story of the show, just like When He Was Wicked has always been the true tear-jerker of the Bridgerton book series.”
The author proceeded to thank her readers and fans for sharing their feedback and added that she is “grateful for [their] understanding and touched by [their] deep commitment to the characters of the Bridgerton world.
“I ask that you grant me and the Shondaland team some faith as we move forward,” she said. “I think we are going to end up with two stories, one on page and one on screen, and they will both be beautiful and moving.”
We are excited to see how Francesca and Michaela’s story pans out, even if we have to wait two whole years for Season 4!
