Netflix Netherlands inadvertently revealed the highly anticipated release schedule for Bridgerton Season 4, confirming a split-release starting in January 2026.
October 9, 2025: Fans of the Regency-era hit Bridgerton woke up to an unexpected revelation as Netflix Netherlands appeared to accidentally leak the highly anticipated Season 4 release dates on Instagram. Though swiftly deleted, the post has sent the internet abuzz, pointing to a two-part premiere in early 2026.
According to the prematurely shared promotional material, the fourth season will be divided into two installments. Part 1 is slated to premiere on Thursday, January 29, 2026, with Part 2 following nearly a month later on Thursday, February 26, 2026. This split release mirrors the strategy Netflix used for the show’s successful third season.
The new season shifts the spotlight to the family’s artistic and free-spirited second son, Benedict Bridgerton (played by Luke Thompson), and his much-awaited love story, which is loosely based on Julia Quinn’s novel An Offer From a Gentleman.
Benedict’s Cinderella Story Takes Center Stage
Season 4 will chronicle Benedict’s captivating romance with Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha), a maid with a mysterious background. Their paths cross at a masquerade ball hosted by Violet Bridgerton, where Benedict is instantly smitten with the “Lady in Silver,” unaware of her true identity as a servant.
Speaking about the plot, actor Luke Thompson described the scripts as “dynamite” and “really, really, really exciting,” promising fans a fresh take on the classic Cinderella tale. Co-star Yerin Ha added that the character’s journey resonated deeply, noting that Sophie “immediately has obstacles, something that she constantly has to overcome.”
Returning Favorites and New Faces
The opulent world of the Ton will also welcome a cast of new and familiar faces. Fans can look forward to the return of Nicola Coughlan (Penelope Featherington), Claudia Jessie (Eloise Bridgerton), Simone Ashley (Kate Bridgerton), and Golda Rosheuvel (Queen Charlotte).
Newcomers set to shake up the social scene include sisters Rosamund Li (Michelle Mao) and Posy Li (Isabella Wei), introduced under the guidance of their mother, Lady Araminta Gun (Katie Leung). Rosamund, in particular, is noted to have her sights set on winning Benedict’s heart, promising a dramatic conflict for the new central couple.
While Netflix has yet to officially confirm the leaked dates, the January 2026 timing suggests the Shondaland production is eager to launch the new season earlier than many industry insiders had anticipated.