Home / Arts and Entertainment / Bridgerton Producer Defends LGBTQ+ Inclusion Amid Backlash
Bridgerton Producer Defends LGBTQ+ Inclusion Amid Backlash
6 Mar
Summary
- Producer asserts Bridgerton is about inclusivity and love.
- Criticism directed at actors Masali Baduza and Hannah Dodd is unacceptable.
- The showrunner obtained Julia Quinn's blessing for queer storylines.
Shonda Brownell, a producer for the hit Netflix series Bridgerton, has strongly defended the show's inclusive narrative, particularly its LGBTQ+ storylines. Speaking on March 3rd, she emphasized that the world of Bridgerton is fundamentally about inclusivity and love, and condemned any form of bigotry directed at the cast.
Brownell specifically addressed negativity aimed at actresses Masali Baduza and Hannah Dodd, urging fans to direct any frustration with adaptations away from the actors and towards creative decisions. She highlighted that the show's commitment to queer representation is crucial for viewers to see themselves reflected.
The showrunner also revealed that author Julia Quinn, whose books inspired the series, has given her blessing for these narrative expansions. Brownell's approach to introducing queer characters has been rooted in thematic cues from the books, rather than mere inclusion for its own sake.
This defense comes after some viewers expressed frustration with changes from Quinn's novels, such as the adaptation of Francesca's love story. Quinn herself released a statement in June, expressing confidence that Francesca's arc will be a highly emotional part of the series.
