New Addition to ‘Bridgerton’: Meet Victor Alli, the Charming Love Interest Revealed!

Victor Alli 5 Things

Victor Alli Courtesy of Victor Alli /Instagram

Lord John Stirling, played by actor Victor Alli, has joined the marriage market in Bridgerton season 3.

As readers of Julia Quinn's Regency romance novels are aware, John Stirling (also known as the Earl of Kilmartin) is Francesca Bridgerton's first husband. Francesca is the third daughter in the Bridgerton family and finds her Happily Ever After in the sixth book, When He Was Wicked.

Francesca was married to John shortly before his untimely death, as per literary canon. The novel follows her journey as a young widow trying to move on. Her love interest in the book is Michael Stirling, John's cousin who becomes the earl. (The story is a second-chance romance, as Michael had feelings for Francesca before her first marriage.)

Alli's introduction to the Ton in season 3, which premiered on Netflix in May 2024, suggests that Francesca (played by Hannah Dodd) may be getting closer to finding her true love.

Keep scrolling to get to know the actor:

What Else Has Victor Alli Acted in Before ‘Bridgerton?’ 

Victor Alli's Acting Journey

Victor Alli did not start his acting career with Bridgerton. Before landing a role in the popular series, he had already appeared in Belfast, Death on the Nile, Showtime’s The Man Who Fell to Earth, and Amazon’s Last Light. Additionally, Alli showcased his talent as Jim O'Connor in the 2024 production of The Glass Menagerie on London's West End.

"I used to be a troublemaker in school, always ending up in detention. But one day, the teacher in charge of detention also happened to be directing a play. When the lead actor didn't show up, she gave me the script and told me to take over. That's how I got started on my acting journey," Alli shared with Oliver Spencher's "The Dash" blog in 2024.

Just about a year before that, Alli told Man About Town UK that his first official acting role completely changed the course of his life.

Victor Alli, the actor who plays a character in 'Bridgerton', shared in November 2023 that there were significant moments that shaped his life and career. One of the turning points was his first play at The Finborough Theatre at the age of 17, which inspired him to pursue acting further by attending drama school.

What Hannah Dodd Has Said About Francesca Falling in Love With John Stirling

Hannah Dodd has shared her thoughts on Francesca falling in love with John Stirling. John is introduced in season 3 as a reserved and introverted Lord in the social scene. He immediately catches Francesca’s eye during her debut season in society. According to an official character description from Netflix, John has a “strong sense of self” and a “charming, self-deprecating sense of humor.”

Dodd is the new Francesca in Bridgerton, replacing Ruby Stokes. In a Q&A with Netflix before season 3, Dodd shared why her character is interested in John.

Francesca is drawn to John because he allows her to be herself. Unlike some who might want someone to challenge her, Francesca sees that her life won't change much with John. They have a comfortable companionship, and we'll see if it turns into the passion Violet desires for them.

Victor Alli is set to make appearances on future seasons of 'Bridgerton'.

Netflix and Shondaland have yet to confirm who will be the lead for season 4 of Bridgerton, but John's story with Francesca is far from over. In the upcoming season, based on the book When He Was Wicked, John will marry Francesca right from the start.

When the spotlight shifts to Francesca's story on Netflix, it is expected that Alli will reprise his role as John. The season may showcase their wedding, their move to John's family estate in Scotland, and their early days as newlyweds before John's eventual passing.

The first four episodes of Bridgerton season 3 are currently streaming on Netflix.

Editor's P/S:

The introduction of Lord John Stirling, played by Victor Alli, in season 3 of "Bridgerton" marks a significant development in the beloved Regency romance series. Alli's portrayal of the Earl of Kilmartin, Francesca Bridgerton's first husband, adds depth to the storyline and hints at the complexities of Francesca's journey. His background in theater and previous roles showcase his versatility as an actor, bringing a nuanced interpretation to the character.

As the narrative progresses, it will be intriguing to witness the evolution of John and Francesca's relationship. Hannah Dodd's insights into Francesca's attraction to John provide a glimpse into their compatible nature. The upcoming season, based on the novel "When He Was Wicked," promises to explore their marriage, highlighting the challenges and joys they encounter as they navigate their new life together. Victor Alli's continued involvement in the series ensures that the story of John and Francesca will captivate audiences in future seasons.