In a world of passionate flings and scandalous affairs, Bridgerton introduced one rare couple who broke the mold, Francesca and John. Their love story wasn’t built on chaos, heartbreak, or betrayal. Instead, it was grounded in quiet understanding and genuine respect, making them arguably the healthiest pair the show’s ever seen. But true to Bridgerton fashion, even this serene romance wasn’t safe.
Just when it seemed like the series might finally let a couple find peace, it did what it always does: stirred the pot and left us all wrecked.
Francesca and John: Bridgerton’s only non-toxic love and why it didn’t last
Francesca and John Stirling were the only Bridgerton couple who truly had it all— ease, trust, mutual respect, and not a single toxic bone between them. But of course, Bridgerton couldn’t let them be.
While every other Bridgerton romance flirted with angst, power struggles, or messy miscommunication, Francesca and John’s relationship felt like a soft melody and heartbreakingly pure. They shared a brain cell, rearranged music for each other, and just clicked so naturally, and tragedy loomed.
Fans already knew what was coming. When He Was Wicked, the sixth book in Julia Quinn’s series, had spoiled the heartbreak years ago. John died of a cerebral aneurysm barely two years into their marriage. Francesca miscarried shortly after. No happily ever after for the show’s healthiest duo.
What made it worse was that the show nailed their chemistry. Victor Alli’s John wasn’t just sweet, he was intentional. Reserved like Francesca, yet quietly romantic. Season 3 gave him dimensions the books never had. And we fell hard.
But just like that, the fairytale was set to unravel. Netflix teased Francesca’s book storyline early, despite Season 3 technically belonging to Colin. And we all know what that means: John’s days were numbered.
Eventually, Francesca would fall for Michael Stirling, John’s cousin and the future Earl of Kilmartin, but that’s another book, another heartbreak.
So here’s the sting: Bridgerton gave us a love story that felt real and drama-free, only to rip it away. Francesca and John were the only untouchably sweet couple. And the show just couldn’t let them be happy.
Fans call out Bridgerton for ruining its only non-toxic couple
Only one Bridgerton couple had zero toxic traits, and the show couldn’t let them be happy, and fans felt it deeply. John and Francesca’s relationship stood out for its genuine ease and sweetness, winning over viewers with quiet chemistry and heartfelt moments. Their connection felt real, simple, and refreshing compared to the usual drama-filled romances.
Still, fans were disappointed when the show portrayed Francesca as hesitant during John’s kiss, which clashed with the pure love they shared. Despite knowing they weren’t endgame, viewers appreciated the precious time John and Francesca had together and looked forward to seeing more of their story in season 4.
