Dearest reader, can we talk for a second about the “Bridgerton” Season 3, Part 1? Unpopular opinion: I didn’t like Colin this season, and the romance fell flat. And I know this is just the first installment, but that still doesn’t change my mind. But hear me out before everyone coming for me (because I get it, I watch the “Bridgerton” series at least once a month).
‘Bridgerton’ Season 3 Recap
Our last glimpse of the series involved two very passionate lovers in a carriage ride home. I’ll be the first to say that I might have rewatched that scene a few times.
In addition to that scene, this season, several huge moments occurred as well:
- Pen and Eliose Don’t Rekindle Their Friendship
- Cressida Cowper is Bearable…Kinda
- Francesca Bridgerton is the Newest Diamond
- Anthony and Kate Bridgerton Want an Heir
- Lady Danbury’s Peace Is Disturbed
- Mr. and Mrs. Mondrich’s Status Changes
- Colin Proposes to Pen #Polin
Even with these key moments, I was still underwhelmed.
The Problem With Colin Bridgerton
Colin Bridgerton got off too easy when it came to Penelope. I mentioned before that this season is for wallflowers and plus-size individuals who are often overlooked; therefore, I am excited Pen is getting her fairytale ending.
Colin has always been the charming, cute one in the background. But this season, his persona turned, leaving me less than impressed. Lady Whistledown even calls it out. Colin didn’t need to transform into a “rake” to be compelling. A prince charming doesn’t have to be a bad boy or some unattainable hunk. I wanted Colin to stay true to himself, to be just Colin. Penelope, on the other hand, carried this season for me. I enjoyed Penelope stepping into the spotlight, albeit it wasn’t long enough. She remained true to herself while still growing into a more confident woman.
Plus, it was too easy for Colin. I needed to see him work harder for Penelope’s affection after his hurtful comments last season — whether he meant them or not. He didn’t sweat enough. Instead, it felt like Colin got a pass. The show briefly addresses his past comments, but it wasn’t enough. We’ve seen too often how people love plus-size individuals in the dark while making them the butt of their jokes. Colin needed to do more to show he was worthy of Penelope’s love. I’m not saying Colin settled, and I am happy he’s realized his affection for his dear friend, but I wish she would’ve given him a harder time.
This Season Didn’t Sweep Me Off My Feet
While Colin fell short, the rest of the cast did their part (IMO). The Featheringtons, their husbands, Crisseda and Francesca Bridgerton, delivered. Their stories and performances were engaging and kept the narrative moving. But they couldn’t entirely make up for the central romance that felt a bit lackluster. Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton’s chemistry feels more real, and they’re not even dating.
Maybe it’s because the bar was set so high by previous seasons’ couples, and that’s why this one didn’t quite hit the mark for me. However, it didn’t feel like Colin would stand with Pen between the heavens and the earth (Call back to “Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story”)
I understand it’s still early. We have a second part of the season to look forward to, and maybe things will turn around. But Part 1 left me wanting more. I wanted the same magic and emotional rollercoaster that previous seasons provided.
Penelope deserved her happy ending, and I’m thrilled she got it. But I wanted to see her with someone who had to work for her, someone who realized her worth through struggle and growth. Colin needed to be more than just a cute face; he needed to be a man worthy of the woman Penelope had become.
“Bridgerton” Season 3 has its moments. It’s still a beautiful show, but the central romance didn’t quite live up to my expectations. Let’s hope Part 2 delivers the depth and passion that Part 1 lacked. For now, I’m conflicted, and I’m sure I’m not the only one.
