Fresh images from the upcoming Bridgerton season 3 show Benedict getting to know a new character, Lady Tilley Arnold, played by Hannah New.

Luke Thompson as Benedict Bridgerton in Bridgerton season 3 episode 1 and Hannah New as Eleanor in Black Sails

New images from Bridgerton season 3 suggest Benedict will spend time with one of the show’s new characters, Lady Tilley Arnold. The upcoming season will break tradition by focusing on Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton rather than Benedict. Previously, Bridgerton followed the order of the book series, with Daphne and Anthony leading the first two seasons. Though Benedict’s story is told in the third book, viewers have to wait a little longer to see it on screen. However, Benedict will still have a role to play in Bridgerton season 3, as evidenced by new photos.

The images shared by Netflix come from episode 3 of the new season and show Benedict with Lady Tilley Arnold, a new character played by Hannah New. Check out the images below:

Luke Thompson as Benedict Bridgerton talking with Hannah New as Lady Tilley Arnold in Bridgerton season 3 episode 3

Luke Thompson as Benedict Bridgerton standing with Hannah New as Lady Tilley Arnold underneath a tent in Bridgerton season 3 episode 3

Based on the images, Benedict and Lady Arnold will share at least two scenes together in episode 3, as they’re wearing different clothes in each image. While one of the photos shows them standing with a large group, the other is decidedly more intimate as they look to be chatting at a ball.

Who Is Lady Tilley Arnold in Bridgerton Season 3?

Could She Be a Love Interest for Benedict?

Luke Thompson as Benedict Bridgerton playing cards with drinks in front of him in Bridgerton season 3 episode 2

When New’s casting was announced in 2022, Lady Arnold was described as a “firebrand widow“ who “enjoys the privileges and power that come with being at the helm of her former husband’s estate.” The character description also stated that she’s “living life on her own terms with financial independence and sexual freedom.” Notably, Lady Arnold isn’t in the Bridgerton book series and is instead an original creation for the show.

While Benedict and Lady Arnold look to spend a fair amount of time together in episode 3, it’s hard to know if their interactions will turn romantic. In the past, Benedict has been attracted to passionate, assertive people, and Lady Arnold certainly fits the bill. While Benedict winds up with someone else in the books, he and Lady Arnold could still enjoy a casual fling or just a meaningful friendship.

As some viewers are disappointed Benedict’s story isn’t the focus of Bridgerton season 3, it would be smart to give him a substantial side arc to make up for that. Lady Arnold could play a key part, helping set Benedict up for his leading role to come, hopefully in season 4.