The world of the ton is shifting its focus to a new leading couple. Netflix has started filming Bridgerton Season 5, and this time the romance centers on Francesca Bridgerton (Hannah Dodd) and Michaela Stirling (Masali Baduza) . While fans love seeing familiar faces, the show follows a clear pattern: once a sibling finds their happily ever after, they step back to let the next romance shine.
Nicola Coughlan, who plays the fan-favorite Penelope Bridgerton (formerly Featherington), has given a direct answer about her future on the show. She revealed that she will barely be in the upcoming season. Here is what she said about her reduced schedule and why Penelope’s story is in a perfect place for a break.
Coughlan Confirms Limited Screen Time in Season 5
While speaking on the Dish podcast on April 29, 2026, Nicola Coughlan confirmed that production on Bridgerton Season 5 is already underway. She was honest that her role this time will be extremely small.
“Season five had started filming already, so I won’t be in it very much. I’m always happy to come back. I think it’s a genuinely lovely job to come back to.”
The 39-year-old Irish actress explained that she now enjoys visiting the set for just a few days at a time. This is a major change from Season 3, where Nicola Coughlan carried the entire season as the lead. She described her current experience as very relaxed compared to the main cast.
“I have it so good now ‘cause I come in for a few days. I’m, like, ‘Yay! How is everyone? I’ll see you in two months. Bye,’” Nicola Coughlan joked. She mentioned that the rest of the cast works very hard on an intense schedule, while she just pops in to say hello and leaves.
Why Penelope Is Taking a Step Back
For viewers who love Penelope and Colin (Luke Newton) , this news might feel disappointing. However, it makes perfect sense for the story. Bridgerton Season 4, which aired earlier in 2026, showed Penelope closing a major chapter in her life. She officially retired her secret identity as Lady Whistledown.
Penelope ended Season 4 as a happy newlywed and a new mother. She no longer needed to hide behind a gossip column to feel powerful. Showrunner Jess Brownell explained that Penelope has completed her growth arc.
“Penelope went through such a giant growth arc last season. She’s not the powerless girl who needs Whistledown to take back her voice anymore,” Brownell told Tudum in February 2026.
Now that she is a secure wife and mother, there is no dramatic tension left in the Featherington household—at least for now. The show is leaving her happy so the audience can focus on the new romance.
The New Focus of the Regency Drama
Bridgerton Season 5 will break new ground by focusing on the show’s first queer love story. Production officially started on March 24, 2026. Francesca and Michaela will take the lead, navigating their feelings and place in society.
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Because Penelope is no longer the mysterious Lady Whistledown, the show also has room to explore a new writer. Jess Brownell teased that this change allows the series to look at women from different walks of life, such as maids or workers, which broadens the female experience shown on screen.
Netflix has already planned for Seasons 5 and 6, so the series will continue for years to come.
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