Shonda Rhimes, queen of behind-the-scenes, is joining forces with screen legend Julie Andrews for an exciting new project coming to Netflix on Christmas Day. 

Based on the historical romance novels by bestselling author Julia Quinn, Bridgerton will delve into the politics of a posh family in Regency-era London.

Here’s everything we know about the TV series so far. 

What is Bridgerton about?

Quinn, dubbed the Jane Austen of our era, wrote an eight-book series about the Bridgerton family and their eight children’s quests in love – one book per offspring – set in the high society of Regency-era London between 1813 and 1827.

Rhimes’ show is set to start at the beginning with the first book of the series, The Duke And I, which tells the story of Daphne Bridgerton and Simon Basset. The couple come to an arrangement to get engaged in an effort to get Basset’s mother off his back about getting married. However, during the engagement Daphne finds herself falling for her faux lover and has to work out how she can make the fake relationship a reality. 

In other words, like The Wedding Date – but make it 19th century aristocracy. 

Who is in the cast for Bridgerton?

Oh, boy. Strap yourself in, because the line-up is absolute fire.

In addition to the legendary Andrews, who will narrate the series as gossip columnist Lady Whistledown, the series will also star Phoebe Dynevor (Younger) as Daphne Bridgerton, Rege-Jean Page (For The People) as Simon Basset.

The rest of the cast includes Jonathan Bailey (Broadchurch) as Anthony, Florence Hunt as Hyacinth, Claudia Jessie (Vanity Fair) as Eloise, Luke Newton (The Lodge) as Colin, Ruby Stokes as Francesca, Luke Thompson as Benedict, and Will Tilston as Gregory.

Derry Girls’ Nicola Coughlan will also feature in the new series, playing Penelope Featherington, a member of the other elite family in town. She is joined by Harriet Cains as Philippa, Bessie Carter as Prudence, Ben Miller (The Armstrong and Miller Show) as Lord Featherington and Polly Walker (Rome) as Lady Portia.

Is there a trailer for Bridgerton?

Not yet. However, with just 71 days until Christmas we expect one imminently. For now satiate yourself with the gorgeous first look pictures. 

Is there a release date for Bridgerton?

Yes, and it’s here to brighten up all our Christmases. The eight-part drama will be released on 25 December. We expect, like us, you’ll have completed it by the time Boxing Day dawns.  

Image: Netflix