Shonda Rhimes’s debut series for Netflix, titled “Bridgerton,” captivated 63 million viewers, including my partner and me. It had been sitting in my recommendations for weeks, nudging me to give it a chance based on my viewing habits.
I typically don’t gravitate towards period dramas; the last one I thoroughly indulged in was “Downton Abbey.” However, after just one episode of “Bridgerton,” I found myself completely enthralled. While the plot eventually drew me in, it was the characters’ journeys of self-discovery that initially captivated me. I was curious to explore their struggles: Why are the Bridgerton brothers hesitant to pursue true love? What prevents the free-spirited Eloise from claiming her independence? Why can’t Simon embrace his feelings for Daphne?
Shonda’s female characters are often portrayed as powerful figures, illustrating what can unfold when women assert their strength. In contrast, her male characters present themselves as vulnerable men in need of love, much like everyone else. Many, if not all, of her characters are grappling with personal challenges that resonate with viewers on a universal level.
When I tune in to a show by Shonda Rhimes, I know to expect a diverse ensemble cast grappling with their own baggage. Throughout her narratives, we witness them navigate their complexities—whether through work, relationships, or intimate encounters. They are imperfect individuals seeking connection, sometimes from anyone willing to show them kindness.
The series showcases formidable women who reveal the tumult that often accompanies power—from Annalise (Viola Davis in “How to Get Away with Murder”) to Olivia (Kerry Washington in “Scandal”) and Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor). The depth of Shonda’s characters reflects real-life issues: addiction, infidelity, self-doubt, resilience, fearlessness, failed relationships, sexuality, familial ties, loss, trauma, and more. These narratives remind us that our identities are shaped by various factors, extending beyond our race and actions, particularly within our societal context. Over time and with changing circumstances, our identities can evolve. Characters like Olivia and Annalise transition from brokenness to wholeness, paralleling Simon Basset’s (Regé-Jean Page) journey in “Bridgerton.”
Shonda encourages us to reflect on the significance of race, not only for women but for humanity as a whole. In “Bridgerton,” she highlights the existence of Black aristocrats during a historical period often overlooked. A review from the New York Times notes that the characters in “Bridgerton” embrace their Blackness as a facet of their identities while thriving in Regency society. The show’s success affirms that people of color can be multifaceted and not relegated merely to victims of racism in a British period drama. In “Scandal” and “How to Get Away with Murder,” she presents Black women excelling in fields rarely portrayed on television.
Shonda deliberately showcases interracial relationships, like that of Daphne and Simon, which begins as a strategic ruse to attract more suitors for Daphne. Some viewers on social media question why her leading Black characters often find love with white partners. For me, the answer lies in Shonda’s ability to remind us of historical power dynamics while also presenting a reality where our identities as a culture are not tied solely to another’s authority. Their identity does not define us, and ultimately, no one holds all the power—everyone has their breaking point.
Watching Shonda Rhimes’s shows transcends dissecting her relationship choices; it’s about celebrating the diversity we need to acknowledge—be it in sexuality, lived experiences, relationships, or the traumas individuals face. The essence lies in the narrative, in how characters journey from one point to another over the season.
As I binge-watched the series with my partner last week, consuming two episodes each night, I was reminded of the final episode of “How to Get Away with Murder.” In this episode, Annalise (Viola Davis) courageously lays bare her life in a courtroom, revealing her struggles with identity and acceptance. She states, “I’ve worn a mask every day of my life… But I am done.”
“Bridgerton” offers a refreshing experience where masks are shed. This novella-like series provides an escape through characters seeking hope and love not just individually, but for humanity as a whole. It echoes contemporary experiences, emphasizing what we can achieve if we take a moment to introspect and focus on what truly matters—love.
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Summary:
In this exploration of “Bridgerton,” the author reflects on the show’s power to engage viewers through its rich character development and themes of identity, love, and societal norms. Shonda Rhimes crafts a diverse cast that embodies personal struggles, encouraging audiences to consider deeper societal implications, particularly concerning race and relationships. The series serves as both entertainment and a mirror to contemporary issues, highlighting the importance of love and self-acceptance.