While Benedict Bridgerton’s love story takes center stage in the new season, one of the show’s most beloved couples will be back with a major life update. Viscount Anthony Bridgerton and Viscountess Kate Bridgerton, played by Jonathan Bailey and Simone Ashley, are confirmed to return for Bridgerton Season 4. They will be joined by their newborn child, officially making the fan-favorite “Kanthony” pairing parents when the show returns. The season is scheduled for release in two parts: Part 1 arrives on Netflix on January 29, 2026, followed by Part 2 on February 26, 2026.
This new chapter follows the couple’s emotional journey in Season 2, which focused entirely on their slow-burn romance, and their supporting role in Season 3. The show’s narrative has already set the stage for their arrival, with Kate confirmed to be pregnant by the end of the last season.
The Off-Screen Journey to Parenthood for Kate and Anthony
The story of Kate and Anthony’s first child is one the show decided to let happen away from the main drama. In the final episodes of Season 3, the couple made a significant decision. Anthony, showing deep respect for Kate’s heritage, suggested they travel to her home country for the birth of their child.
This plot point served a dual purpose. It provided a graceful reason for the couple to step out of the spotlight, which was focused on Colin and Penelope’s romance, and it powerfully demonstrated Anthony’s love and commitment to Kate. The series did not depict the birth itself on screen, instead using the passage of time to show the couple transitioning into a new, more stable phase of their lives together.
The show never depicts the birth itself. But the implication is clear. Kate and Anthony are parents now.
By the time Season 4 begins, their journey to India is complete, and they are back in London as a family of three. This timeline aligns with the events of author Julia Quinn’s original book series, where the couple’s first son is born shortly after their marriage.
What the Books Reveal About the Bridgerton Heir
For fans curious about the details, the literary source material provides a clear picture of Kate and Anthony’s future family. In the books, their first child is a son named Edmund, in honor of Anthony’s late father.
According to the book series, Edmund is just the beginning. Anthony and Kate go on to have four children:
- Edmund, their firstborn son
- Miles, their second son
- Charlotte, their daughter
- Mary, their youngest daughter
While the Netflix adaptation often takes creative liberties, the show’s producers have frequently used the books as a narrative guide. The official Netflix family tree also lists the couple as awaiting their first child, confirming the direction of the storyline.
The New Family Dynamic in a Busy Bridgerton Household
The arrival of Kate and Anthony’s baby means the Bridgerton family home is more bustling than ever. They are not the only new parents in the family. Colin Bridgerton and Penelope Featherington, now married, also welcomed their first child—a son—during the Season 3 finale. This sets up Season 4 to potentially explore the lives of two main couples navigating parenthood for the first time.
This focus on family is a natural progression for the series. While past seasons have centered on the intense drama of courtship and marriage, the new episodes have the opportunity to show what comes next. Fans have expressed a strong desire to see their favorite couples in this new role.
The cast is equally excited. Jonathan Bailey has expressed his enthusiasm for exploring Anthony’s journey as a father, confirming he has no plans to leave the role. Simone Ashley has also spoken about returning to film the new season, indicating the couple’s story is far from over.
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A Changed Role for a Fan-Favorite Couple
The return of Kate and Anthony marks a shift in their narrative purpose. In Season 2, they were the central force of emotional turmoil and passion. In Season 3, they served as a stable, happily married contrast to Colin and Penelope’s budding romance.
For Season 4, their role evolves again. As settled parents and the heads of the Bridgerton family, they are likely to act as anchors amidst the new romantic chaos—this time caused by Benedict’s quest for love. Their presence shifts from generating drama to providing wisdom and support, showcasing the depth and maturity of their love story.
The new season will premiere globally on Netflix, with Part 1 available on January 29, 2026, and Part 2 following on February 26, 2026. All previous seasons are currently available for streaming on the platform.
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