Slow Burn to Raging Fire, “Bridgerton” Is The New "Gossip Girl."

The storm taking over Netflix the last week has been the much-anticipated period drama from “Scandal” and “How To Get Away With Murder” Executive Producer Shonda Rimes has proved tantalizing. At first, the choice to adapt a series of novels set in Regency-Era England seemed an odd choice for Rimes, but after the first few episodes, audiences get a taste of the scandalous drama fans had hoped to see after Rimes left primetime cable behind. Shondaland is coming for Netflix, and our need for escapism, with intensity.

“Bridgerton” is not the typical period drama of yore. Period dramas are going through an exciting evolution of genre, probably due to the changing priorities of audiences. Period dramas are increasingly evolving into something of an allegory for the modern world which relies on witty writing and a vibrant color pallet. The period drama is also branching into a more relevant sub- or cross-genre, “dramedy.” It might as well be canon. The evolving tone of this genre is not unlike “Gossip Girl.” Although the likes of Blair Waldorf and Serena Van Der Woodsen don’t reside in the Regency Era, “Gossip Girl” still managed to blend the drama that comes with an omniscient narrator with the comedy of daily life. “Bridgerton” finds ways to successfully blend the two as well.

Period dramas are also evolving how they look. In addition to costuming, diverse casting is finally becoming normal. Really, it’s more than about time. “Bridgerton” makes the biggest impact in this regard with several actors of color occupying large roles, such as Marina Thompson, the Duke of Hastings, Lady Danbury, and the Queen herself. Mostly, the series emphasizes Black actors with only a handful of Asian or South Asian actors depicting tertiary or background characters. Still, the feat is long due especially considering “Bridgerton’s” extension of representation into the storyline. Diverse casting isn’t just a good choice for audiences, it’s essential to “Bridgerton’s” story. Now that “Bridgerton” has successfully incorporated Black actors, voices, and stories in historical television, hopefully the evolution of the period drama genre will continue to evolve and follow Shondaland’s lead.

If you’re wondering where this evolution is coming from, look back on the notable television period dramas of the last few years. Even though issues of representation aren’t adequately met in these examples, the trend of witty humor, vibrant costuming, and sex are still apparent where they hadn’t been before – and still aren’t on the big screen. “Harlots,” “The Great,” and “Reign” have all contributed to this shift. Now, let’s hope it continues and spreads like the fires started by Lady Whistledown and, separately, Simon and Daphne. Does this hopeless romantic have what it takes to wait for “Bridgerton” Season 2? Definitely not.

Xoxo, Whistledown.

“Bridgerton” is available on Netflix.