Bridgerton author Julia Quinn shares her excitement about Luke Thompson’s Benedict Bridgerton stepping into the lead role for season 4. After exploring the tales of Daphne (Phoebe Dynevor), Anthony (Jonathan Bailey), and Colin (Luke Newton), Bridgerton season 4 will dive into Benedict’s romance after season 3 explored his sexuality and desires. The fourth season will adapt the events of Quinn’s third novel, An Offer From a Gentleman.

Quinn opened up to People about how she feels about seeing the romance of her third novel transition to the screen. While Quinn had been aware of whom the Bridgerton season 4 lead was prior to Netflix’s announcement, she had yet to see any full scripts, but was still quite excited. Check out the author’s full explanation:

I’ve been holding onto that for a while, so it’s pretty fun. I’ve heard a little bit about just anecdotes and stuff, so I’m very excited. I’ve been very gently being like, ‘Can I see?’ He’ll be amazing. He’s such a great actor.

Bridgerton’s Early Seasons Have Set Up Benedict’s Romance

Early Explorations Of Love Have Left Benedict With A Greater Perspective

The romance between Sophie and Benedict will see the latter question whether their societal positions will prevent their love from blossoming.

Though Bridgerton season 3 may not have centered on Benedict’s storyline, it laid the foundation for key themes and arcs that will play heavily into his future story. Earlier seasons had exposed Benedict to relationships that are scandalous within the Regency setting, and season 3 saw him enter an affair with Lady Tilley Arnold (Hannah New) and her lover Paul Suarez (Lucas Aurelio), allowing Benedict to explore his sexuality. Now open to new possibilities, An Offer From a Gentleman‘s adaptation will continue Benedict’s journey.

In An Offer From a Gentleman,Benedict meets the mysterious Sophie Beckett, a woman from a lower class with a tragic past, at a masquerade ball. As season 1 tackled a marriage of convenience, season 2 handled enemies-to-lovers, and season 3 tackled the pining between friends, season 4’s narrative is a twist on the Cinderella tale. The romance between Sophie and Benedict will see the latter question whether their societal positions will prevent their love from blossoming.

With three seasons worth of build-up for Benedict taking the lead, his season has the potential to be one of the most satisfying. It is certainly among the show’s most anticipated. As such, Benedict’s previous storylines have set up many of the themes that will play into his romance with Sophie. While Bridgerton season 4 may only be in early development, Quinn’s approval is sure to set up high hopes for the next chapter.