by Thinus Ferreira
Netflix has commissioned a limited spinoff series from Bridgerton, produced by Shondaland, and announced that it's adding Jess Brownell as showrunner for the 3rd and 4th seasons.
The second season of
Bridgerton, based on the series of novels by Julia Quinn,
is currently in production with showrunner Chris Van Dusen.
The as-yet-untitled Bridgerton limited spinoff series will be based on the origins of and tell the story of a young Queen Charlotte.
While the spinoff series will centre on the rise and love life of a young Queen Charlotte, it will also tell the stories of young Violet Bridgerton and Lady Danbury. Shonda Rhimes will write the series and serve as executive producer alongside Betsy Beers and Tom Verica.
Bela Bajaria, Netflix vice president of global TV, in a statement says that "Many viewers had never known the story of Queen Charlotte before Bridgerton brought her to the world, and I'm thrilled this new series will further expand her story and the world of Bridgerton".
"Shonda Rhimes and her team are thoughtfully building out the Bridgerton universe so they can keep delivering for the fans with the same quality and style they love. And by planning and prepping all the upcoming seasons now, we also hope to keep up a pace that will keep even the most insatiable viewers totally fulfilled."
Shonda Rhimes, CEO of Shondaland, says "As we continue to expand the world of Bridgerton, we now have the opportunity to devote even more of the Shondaland fold to the Bridgerton-verse".
"We've worked with Jess Brownell for over a decade and have long wanted to find the right project to place in her hands. When it came time to pass the baton, I knew this unique voice was vital to the future of the show."
Chris Van Dusen says "With Bridgerton, I set out to make the period show I always wanted to see. I never could've anticipated how much the rest of the world also wanted to see it".
"I'm deeply proud of this remarkable cast and incredible crew, and I'm so grateful for the enduring support of Shonda, who I've worked alongside for 17 years. Shondaland is where I learned how to make TV, craft incredibly complex characters and how to tell stories."
"And while it's been an incredible journey, I have my sights set on a few new stories to tell. To that end, I'll continue as showrunner - writing and producing season two of Bridgerton - and look forward to seeing Jess continue the magic in seasons three and four."
"I'd also like to thank Julia Quinn and her passionate fans - for embracing my vision for bringing these beloved books to the screen. See you in Grosvenor Square."
Jess Brownell says "It's been incredibly rewarding working alongside Shonda, Betsy, and Chris Van Dusen on the first two seasons of Bridgerton. And now, as these beloved characters are entrusted to me, I cannot wait to lend my unique vision to the next two seasons".
"I feel so fortunate to have found a home at Shondaland and to have the support of Shonda and Betsy as I move forward into this new chapter."
