When Bridgerton first broke through, it felt subversive. As sex has disappeared from film, Bridgerton featured some of the most intimate and erotic sequences on television. Placing this eroticism in a period drama gave the series a unique link. It immediately felt closer to Weathering Heights or Dangerous Liaisons. Now, after two seasons and a spin-off, the novelty has partially worn off. However, Season 3 of Bridgerton does not falter due to complacency. Rather, Shondaland and the showrunners overload the season. While Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton finally take the spotlight, their story sags under the weight of carrying more than a half-dozen subplots.

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The dual natures of Penelope Featherington (Coughlan) have come to blows. The ton discusses her future as a spinster as she reaches her third season out in society.