Netflix’s Bridgerton has been a global sensation since its debut, captivating audiences with its steamy romances, lavish regency-era settings, and scandalous storytelling. But as fans eagerly anticipate Bridgerton Season 4, one update about Jonathan Bailey’s character, Anthony Bridgerton, is causing major disappointment.
Despite Bailey’s confirmed return as Anthony, recent revelations suggest his role in the upcoming season will be shockingly limited—continuing an upsetting trend from Season 3.
So, what’s happening with Anthony? And why does it seem like Bridgerton is sidelining one of its most beloved characters? Let’s break it all down.
Bridgerton’s Two-Year Release Schedule Delays Season 4
Before diving into Anthony’s reduced role, let’s talk about Bridgerton’s timeline.
Showrunner Jess Brownell confirmed in 2024 that the series follows a two-year production cycle. That means Season 4 is unlikely to premiere until 2026, two years after Season 3.
For a show as wildly popular as Bridgerton, that’s already frustrating news. Fans who fell in love with Anthony and Kate in Season 2 had to wait four years for their story to (possibly) continue meaningfully on-screen. But now, it seems like even when Bridgerton returns, Anthony won’t be in the spotlight.
Jonathan Bailey’s Early Wrap Suggests Anthony’s Screen Time Is Minimal
The biggest red flag? Jonathan Bailey has already finished filming his Season 4 scenes—while the rest of the cast will keep working until spring 2025.
In an interview with Vogue in December 2024, Bailey revealed that he wrapped on Bridgerton months before production was set to end. That strongly suggests his character isn’t a major part of the upcoming season.
And if you’re thinking, Wait, didn’t Anthony already take a backseat in Season 3?, you’d be absolutely right.
Anthony & Kate Were Already Sidelined in Bridgerton Season 3
Let’s rewind to Bridgerton Season 3.
After their swoon-worthy romance in Season 2, Anthony and Kate returned—but barely. While they were present, their screen time was drastically reduced, leaving many fans disappointed.
Instead of seeing their newlywed life unfold, they were relegated to side characters while the main focus shifted to Colin and Penelope’s love story.
With Bailey wrapping Season 4 so quickly, it looks like history is repeating itself.
Why Is Anthony’s Role Being Reduced? Several Factors Are at Play
There are a few possible reasons why Bridgerton is giving Anthony less screen time:
1. The Show Sticks to a New Couple Every Season
Bridgerton follows a one-book, one-love-story format. Season 4 is expected to focus on Benedict Bridgerton, meaning Anthony is no longer central to the narrative.
2. Jonathan Bailey’s Career Is Skyrocketing
Bailey has been busier than ever. He starred in Showtime’s Fellow Travelers, landed a major role in Wicked, and is set to appear in the upcoming Jurassic Park movie. His packed schedule may have required a shorter filming commitment.
3. The Show’s Writers Are Reshuffling Priorities
There’s also a chance that Bridgerton is focusing on newer, younger characters, giving less screen time to past protagonists—even if they remain fan favorites.
Why Bridgerton Needs Anthony & Kate to Play a Bigger Role
While Bridgerton follows a new sibling each season, Anthony and Kate’s presence should still be felt—after all, they are the Viscount and Viscountess of the Bridgerton family.
They aren’t just any couple. They’re supposed to be running the household, mentoring younger siblings, and navigating the responsibilities of nobility.
By pushing them to the sidelines, Bridgerton risks losing an important element of continuity.
Bridgerton Season 4’s Cast: Who’s Returning?
Despite Anthony’s reduced role, plenty of familiar faces are coming back.
Here’s a breakdown of the main cast for Bridgerton Season 4:
- Luke Thompson as Benedict Bridgerton
- Yerin Ha as Sophie Baek (Benedict’s likely love interest)
- Jonathan Bailey as Anthony Bridgerton
- Simone Ashley as Kate Bridgerton
- Nicola Coughlan as Penelope Bridgerton
- Luke Newton as Colin Bridgerton
- Claudia Jessie as Eloise Bridgerton
- Golda Rosheuvel as Queen Charlotte
- Adjoa Andoh as Lady Danbury
- Ruth Gemmell as Violet Bridgerton
What Could Anthony’s Limited Screen Time Mean for the Story?
If Bailey’s screen time is minimal, here’s what that could mean for Bridgerton Season 4’s story:
1. A Quick Cameo & Exit
Anthony and Kate might appear briefly in the first few episodes before being written off—perhaps on another extended trip to India?
2. Limited Family Interactions
Anthony’s absence could mean fewer emotional moments between him and his siblings—especially Benedict, who could benefit from his older brother’s guidance.
3. A Small But Pivotal Role
It’s possible that while Anthony’s appearances are limited, they will be impactful—perhaps involving major family decisions or a turning point for Benedict.
Will Bridgerton Bring Anthony & Kate Back in Future Seasons?
Even if Season 4 doesn’t give Anthony and Kate much screen time, their story isn’t necessarily over.
If the show follows the books closely, Anthony will still play a role in his siblings’ stories—especially when it comes to Francesca’s upcoming season.
Fans can only hope that Bridgerton gives them the attention they deserve in later seasons.
Final Thoughts: Is Bridgerton Making a Mistake?
While it makes sense for Bridgerton to shift focus to new couples, sidelining Anthony and Kate again feels like a misstep.
Fans fell in love with their story, and after their limited screen time in Season 3, many were hoping for more. Instead, Jonathan Bailey’s early wrap suggests that Season 4 will once again push them to the background.
Only time will tell if Bridgerton can balance its ever-growing cast—or if fan-favorite characters like Anthony and Kate will continue to fade away.
FAQs
1. Will Anthony Bridgerton be in Season 4?
Yes, Jonathan Bailey will return as Anthony in Bridgerton Season 4, but his screen time is expected to be minimal.
2. Why is Jonathan Bailey’s role smaller in Bridgerton Season 4?
Bailey wrapped filming early, suggesting a reduced role—likely due to Bridgerton’s focus shifting to Benedict and Bailey’s busy career schedule.
3. When will Bridgerton Season 4 be released?
The season is expected to premiere in 2026, following Bridgerton’s two-year production cycle.
4. Will Anthony and Kate return in future seasons?
While they may have smaller roles moving forward, Anthony and Kate’s story isn’t necessarily over—especially with Francesca’s future storyline.
5. Who is the main couple in Bridgerton Season 4?
Season 4 is expected to focus on Benedict Bridgerton and his romance with Sophie Baek.
