Queen Charlotte on Netflix is Next Big ‘Bridgerton’ Series

We’ve seen Queen Charlotte on Netflix before, but never like this. The first two seasons of Bridgerton are some of the steamiest seasons of television we’ve seen on Netflix, while weaving in emotional, complex storylines. Although Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story doesn’t quite live up to its predecessors in terms of sexually explicit content, it makes up for it with a rich plot line focusing on themes of racism, colorism, classism, and of course the patriarchy within Great Britain.

Viewers are treated to a look inside the life of Queen Charlotte played by both Golda Roscheuvel and India Ria Amarteifio, as well as Lady Danbury, portrayed by Adjoah Andoh and Arsema Thomas each portraying the character.

*The following Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story review is spoiler-free.*

Lady Danbury and Queen Charlotte steal the show

To my pleasant surprise as a Bridgerton fan, the latest installment to the franchise not only flashes back to a young Queen Charlotte (India Ria Amarteifio) but provides additional context to the current timeline as well. With the Queen and Lady Danbury as the project’s two main focuses, all four actors have a chance to shine.

The love story between the Queen and a young King George (Corey Mylchreest) is immaculate. Similarly to season one, viewers and the main character alike are left to unravel the issues that plague the couple as the season progresses. Much like the series’ predecessors, the conclusion to the main love plot is beyond satisfying. Get your tissues out.

While the mystery and intrigue of the relationship between the King and Queen are mostly exciting, there are times when the story drags. Many of these scenes intentionally provide some uncomfortable moments to add context to the Queen’s struggle. Thematically, they make a lot of sense, but that doesn’t make them more enjoyable to watch. Regardless, that’s more of a personal problem.

Lady Danbury has always been one of the most interesting characters in the Bridgerton franchise. Her wisdom is unparalleled among her peers, and she has the humor and quips to match. While we previously didn’t know much about her past, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton story finally unravels the mystery behind her wisdom.

Present-day Agatha Danbury (Adjoah Andoh) spends the season strengthening her friendship with Violet Bridgerton through spicy conversation that provides a nice pallet cleanse for some of the season’s more serious moments. Meanwhile, flashbacks of a younger Agatha (Arsema Thomas) are the highlight of Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton story.

Unfortunately, much of Lady Danbury’s wisdom comes from a lifetime of struggle, despite living the majority of her years as nobility. There’s an incredible amount of context added to Agatha Danbury’s life throughout the limited series, as she struggles with her marriage and new societal expectations. The origins of her relationship with the Queen is a beautiful display of two powerful women punching through glass ceilings in a society that discriminates against them for the color of their skin.

Queen Charlotte arrives on Netflix May 4

Add another hit to the Shondaland production company. While the sexiness of past seasons takes a back seat in Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, the increase in emotional and societal tension makes for incredible television. The series streams exclusively on Netflix beginning May 4.

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