Bridgerton's Most Discussed Controversies: Exploring a Provocative Sex Scene and Mental Health Challenges
Netflix's 'Bridgerton' captivated audiences since its December 2020 release Explore the show's biggest controversies, from Rege-Jean Page's surprising departure to a controversial sex scene and the removal of Daphne's character Additionally, hear about Ruby Barker's claims of lacking support from Netflix and Shonda Rhimes amidst her mental health struggles
When Bridgerton premiered on Netflix, it quickly became a popular topic of discussion, although not always for positive reasons. This historical drama, adapted from Julia Quinn's book series, portrays the lives of the affluent Bridgerton family as they navigate the quest for love in 19th century London. The show, which premiered in December 2020, primarily centers around the characters of Daphne Bridgerton (portrayed by Phoebe Dynevor) and Simon Basset (portrayed by Regé-Jean Page).
Season 2 introduced the potential love story between Daphne's brother Anthony Bridgerton and Kate Sharma, keeping fans eagerly waiting for Colin Bridgerton's involvement with Penelope Featherington. Following the show's immense popularity, a spinoff called "Queen Charlotte" expanded the Bridgerton universe by delving into the history behind King George III and Queen Charlotte's marriage, taking viewers back to the past. The series began streaming in 2023.
Off screen, however, Bridgerton also made headlines for shocking actor exits, book to show changes and more.
Scroll down for details on the drama behind the hit Netflix series:
Rege-Jean Page’s Surprising Departure
Liam Daniel/Netflix
Page and his character, Simon Basset, also known as the Duke of Hastings, became fan favorites when the first season of the Netflix drama premiered in December 2020. Simon found his happily ever after with Daphne Bridgerton and their son, Augie.
However, fans were disappointed to learn that Page would not be returning for future seasons, as Netflix announced. This decision came as a surprise, considering that all the characters from Quinn's books made appearances, even if they were not the main focus of the story. This left viewers questioning why Page chose not to continue, especially since Dynevor will still be involved in season 2.
“It's going to be a one-season arc," Page explained in an interview with Variety in April 2021. "We will have a beginning, middle, and end—all within a year. When I first heard that, I found it interesting because it made the series feel like a limited one. I have the opportunity to make my contribution and then the Bridgerton family will continue their journey."
The Controversial Sex Scene
Liam Daniel/Netflix
Although Simon and Daphne's love story concluded on a positive note, it's important to acknowledge that their path was not without obstacles. The fictitious couple left a lasting impression due to their numerous intimate moments. However, it is worth noting that Daphne had limited knowledge about conception, and she later discovered that Simon had deceived her regarding his infertility.
She engaged in consensual sex with Simon, but then took the initiative to be on top so her husband could practice the withdrawal method to prevent any potential pregnancy. This particular scene, which had already generated controversy in Quinn's novel, left viewers questioning why it was brought to life on screen.
"As a show, we make it very clear that this takes place during a time when women were only valued for their ability to marry and bear children, with no significance beyond their roles as wives and mothers," explained creator Chris Van Dusen in an interview with Esquire in 2021. "Daphne expresses this sentiment explicitly in the pilot episode. When it comes to the subject of sex and the actual mechanics of conceiving children or fulfilling her role as a wife, she is kept completely in the dark. Even her own mother fails to disclose the truth about these matters."
Going Out of Order
Courtesy of Netflix
Executive producer Shonda Rhimes hinted that there would be a shake-up with the order of the show, surprising fans of the book series it is based on. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight in March 2022, Rhimes shared that although there are eight Bridgerton siblings, each with their own book, the show will not necessarily follow the chronological order. However, viewers can expect to see each of the siblings and their romantic stories unfold.
Benedict, the second eldest Bridgerton brother, did not become the lead in season 3. Instead, the love story between Colin and Penelope was given more prominence.
Showrunner Jess Brownell explained the reason for putting Benedict's story on hold, stating in a May 2022 interview with Variety, "We have chosen to deviate slightly from the books as our show is more of an ensemble. While the books focus primarily on individual romantic pairs, with the siblings making occasional appearances, they do not have fully developed storylines."
Removing Daphne From the Narrative
Liam Daniel/Netflix
Dynevor made a surprising announcement in January 2023, revealing to Screen Rant that Daphne would not be featured in season 3. However, she expressed her excitement to watch the season as a viewer. No explanation was given by Dynevor or the creative team behind Bridgerton regarding Daphne's absence.
Ruby Barker Claims Netflix and Shonda Rhimes Didn’t Support Her Amid Mental Health Issues
Liam Daniel/Netflix
Barker originally played the character Marina Thompson in seasons 1 and 2 of Bridgerton. She revealed in a now-deleted Instagram video from May 2022 that her mental health struggles had impacted her future on the show.
"I want to be transparent with everyone, I've been going through a difficult time," she shared. "Currently, I'm in the hospital, but I will be discharged soon and hopefully be able to move forward with my life. I'll be taking a brief pause to focus on myself."
Barker expressed gratitude towards Rhimes and Netflix for offering her an opportunity and helping her out during that period. However, in October 2023, Barker retracted her earlier statements and revealed that she had experienced two psychotic breaks. She stated in "The Loaf" podcast that neither Netflix nor anyone from Shondaland had reached out to inquire about her well-being or offer any form of aftercare or support. No one had contacted her at all.
Barker alleged that her initial bout of psychosis in 2019 was concealed and suppressed prior to the show's launch on Netflix. She encountered a second episode of illness in 2022.
"It was an extremely distressing situation for me as my character was constantly isolated and marginalized, enduring unbearable circumstances," she remarked on how Marina's plotlines failed to contribute positively to her mental well-being.
Netflix and Shondaland have yet to publicly address the accusations.
