Movies News Talk
Fans of Bridgerton, get ready to get somewhat heated about this one. Let's start right in the middle: Among the most fascinating characters in the show is Daphne Bridgerton by Phoebe Dynevor. Her relationship with Simon, the Duke of Hastings, charged season 1, thus it is hard to see Bridgerton without her. Although Dynevor makes sporadic appearances in later seasons, she has been conspicuously absent, and Bridgerton's attempts to cover the void left by Daphne have, well, fallen short. Let us dissect this.
Stepping in for Ruby Stokes, Season 3 brought Hannah Dodd as Francesca Bridgerton. Like Daphne, Francesca arrived in society at the beginning of the season, and Queen Charlotte selected both of her as the "Diamond of the Season". To be honest though, Francesca and Daphne are two peas from quite different pods. Daphne lives on romance and craves the limelight. More reserved and happy with a smaller life is Francesca. It is rather evident from Francesca's later move to Scotland at the end of the season that she will not be replacing Daphne in terms of grand scheme of things.
We understand; actors have other obligations and change their plans. We're not, however, discussing a casual character who has been written out. We are discussing Daphne, a cherished character who drove the first success of the show. Ignoring Daphne totally is a lost chance. This is the reason we need a suitable justification for Daphne's location in season 4.
The fact is that Daphne's absence leaves a void even among the most devoted Bridgerton viewers cannot ignore. Season 4 could address this by meaningfully noting Daphne's absence. Consider this: might Daphne be visiting her husband's family? Might she be pregnant? Whatever the cause, a well-written Daphne absence explanation would be a breath of fresh air and provide viewers something to hang onto.
The Daphne Bridgerton from Dynevor was amazing. Her sharp banter, passionate demeanor, and obvious chemistry with the Duke enthralled viewers. The creators of the show must recognize her major contribution to the early success of the series and find a means of working her back into the fold. We want to see her family, see her flourish, see her negotiate married life's challenges.