With Bridgerton finally set to return for its third season, now is the perfect time to look back at the scenes that made this Regency-era drama anything but old-fashioned. While it certainly brings the grandeur of period storytelling, complete with corsets, carriages, and complicated courtships, Bridgerton is equally known for its sultry, sensuous side. It’s a series that doesn’t shy away from exploring physical passion, desire, and all the emotionally charged layers that come with it.
Season 1, in particular, made headlines for how boldly it leaned into steamy territory. But that doesn’t mean Season 2 lacked spark—it simply traded quantity for carefully chosen, emotionally grounded moments. Both seasons offer unforgettable sequences that range from sweet to scandalous, each one helping to break traditional period drama conventions in its own way.
Spoiler warning: The content below contains spoilers for Bridgerton Seasons 1 and 2.
One of the most memorable early scenes in the series is when Daphne and Simon consummate their marriage on their wedding night. This pivotal moment occurs in Episode 5 of Season 1 and, while relatively modest compared to others, it holds emotional weight. It sets the tone for their evolving relationship—tender, hopeful, and deeply romantic. The intimacy here feels earned after all their flirtation and longing, and it gives viewers the kind of catharsis only a slow-burn couple can deliver.
Another standout moment comes from Benedict’s storyline in Season 2. Though this season is lighter in physical intimacy, Benedict’s experience in an art class in Episode 5 leaves a strong impression. During the lesson, Benedict ends up sleeping with one of the models, Tessa. What makes this scene especially intriguing is the layered dynamic—it’s not just about the act itself, but about the circumstances leading to it. Tessa, passionate about the arts, only agrees to model because women are barred from the class. It’s a scene with subtle social commentary woven into its sensual tone.
Back in Season 1, Benedict also makes waves in Episode 5 with a scene that pushes the envelope for period drama storytelling. After witnessing two men locked in a passionate embrace—a moment that sparked plenty of fan speculation about his sexuality—Benedict soon finds himself in bed with two women. Though not overly explicit, the scene’s composition and daring subject matter make it one of the more provocative moments of the series. It challenges period norms and expectations, all while building curiosity about Benedict’s arc.
Daphne and Simon feature again in Episode 7 of Season 1 in a stairwell scene that many fans still talk about. The scene is intimate and bold, with Simon performing oral sex on Daphne—a visual representation of power dynamics shifting within their relationship. What heightens the emotional intensity is the fact that they’re still in the midst of unresolved conflict. The mix of pleasure and emotional tension creates a complex, unforgettable moment.
From the very start, Bridgerton sets the tone for what kind of show it intends to be. Just minutes into the first episode of Season 1, viewers are met with Anthony and Siena having sex against a tree. It’s raw, unexpected, and unflinchingly physical—an effective way to declare that this series will not be holding back. This early scene serves as a jolt to the system, proving that Bridgerton is willing to push boundaries from the get-go.
One of the more groundbreaking moments in terms of character development and narrative is when Daphne touches herself in Episode 3. Female sexuality is rarely explored so directly in period dramas, and this scene breaks from that mold completely. It’s honest, curious, and vulnerable—a moment of self-discovery that also sets the foundation for her future relationship with Simon. It’s a simple act, but one filled with thematic significance.
Anthony and Siena resurface again in Episode 8 of Season 1 with what might be their boldest scene yet. The pair have sex under the stage during a live boxing match, all while a crowd of people cheer above them, unaware of what’s happening below. The scene plays with the idea of public versus private pleasure, and Siena takes control in a way that shows how their dynamic has shifted over time. The backdrop adds thrill and risk, making the moment even more provocative.
Perhaps one of the most discussed scenes in the entire series comes when Daphne prevents Simon from withdrawing during sex after learning about conception. This scene, from Season 1, explores the nuances of consent in a way that few shows—especially in this genre—dare to touch. While controversial, it opens a necessary conversation about mutual understanding, communication, and bodily autonomy. It’s not meant to titillate so much as to challenge the viewer to think critically about the emotional complexity involved.
Season 2 may have fewer physically explicit scenes, but when they come, they’re rich with emotional payoff. One such moment is Anthony and Kate’s passionate garden scene in Episode 7. After an entire season of simmering tension and stolen glances, this encounter is as explosive as fans hoped it would be. The fact that it takes place outdoors only adds to the thrill—it’s reckless, risky, and deliciously satisfying. What’s even more remarkable is that they aren’t married at this point, once again subverting period drama conventions in the best way.
If one scene had to be crowned the steamiest of all, it would be the montage of Daphne and Simon from Episode 6 of Season 1. This extended sequence is essentially a highlight reel of their physical connection, showcasing their chemistry across various settings, including the bedroom—and even a ladder. It’s an unabashed celebration of mutual desire and the freedom they’ve found in each other. The music swells, the editing is tight, and every moment is charged with intimacy. It’s not just spicy; it’s a love story told through movement and touch.
Looking ahead, Bridgerton Season 3 promises even more steamy encounters. Actress Nicola Coughlan recently revealed that filming the upcoming season involved a number of intimate scenes, some of which were, in her words, “intimidating to shoot” but ultimately “brilliant.” Her comments only build anticipation, suggesting that Bridgerton isn’t slowing down when it comes to bringing passion to the small screen.
Whether you’re drawn to the heart-pounding romance, the daring storytelling, or the sheer beauty of the cinematography, Bridgerton’s sexiest scenes are part of what make the series a cultural phenomenon. They’re not just about physicality—they’re about power, vulnerability, trust, and transformation. And as the series continues, it’s safe to say fans can expect even more moments that make them swoon, gasp, and hit replay.
