Episode guide to new Netflix series Bridgerton

From Shondaland and show creator Chris Van Dusen, Bridgerton follows Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor), the eldest daughter of the aristocratic Bridgerton family as she makes her debut onto Regency London’s competitive marriage market.

Spoiler alert: Here’s an episode guide to the eight-part romantic and quick-witted series that features scenes filmed on location at Hatfield House in Hertfordshire.

Phoebe Dynevor as Daphne Bridgerton and Ruth Gemmell as Lady Violet Bridgerton in the first episode of Netflix series Bridgerton. (Image: © 2020 Netflix, Inc.)

• Episode 1 - Diamond of the First Water
Daphne Bridgerton makes her debut atop the London marriage market food chain.
But when her brother Anthony intimidates a plethora of potential suitors and Marina’s star begins to rise instead, Daphne must make an unlikely alliance with the rakish Duke, Simon (Regé-Jean Page).

To keep Lady Whistledown, voiced by Julie Andrews, from having a gossip field day, the two may be the only solution to their respective troubles.
Meanwhile, the Featherington family discovers the bombshell reason for Marina’s apathy towards the events of the season.

Nicola Coughlan as Penelope Featherington and Claudia Jessie as Eloise Bridgerton in the second episode of Bridgerton which is coming to Netflix. (Image: © 2020 Netflix, Inc.)

• Episode 2 - Shock and Delight
Daphne has a house full of gentlemen callers and her and the Duke enact their fake courtship plan.
However, Daphne must figure out how to escape the looming threat of an unwanted suitor, while Simon’s traumatic childhood is revealed.

Jonathan Bailey as Anthony Bridgerton and Claudia Jessie as Eloise Bridgerton in episode 3 of Bridgerton. (Image: © 2020 Netflix, Inc.)

• Episode 3 - Art of the Swoon
The line between ruse and reality begins to blend as Daphne and the Duke spend more time with one another.
Daphne’s interest is also piqued by the arrival of the season’s hottest new bachelor: Friedrich, Prince of Prussia.
Lady Featherington decides to take Marina’s secret into her own hands.

Bridgerton premieres on Netflix on December 25. (Image: Netflix)

• Episode 4 - An Affair of Honor
Eloise begins her hunt to discover the true identity of Lady Whistledown.
And although Daphne grows closer to securing a proposal from the prince, she realises the passion between her and Simon may get in the way.

Golda Rosheuvel as Queen Charlotte in episode 5 of Bridgerton. (Image: © 2020 Netflix, Inc.)

• Episode 5 - The Duke and I
‘The Ton’ continues to be enraptured by the whirlwind romances of the season, especially after the season’s Diamond must hastily marry.
Meanwhile, the Queen personally tasks Eloise to track down Lady Whistledown’s identity and another Bridgerton makes a rash decision.

Ben Miller as Lord Featherington, Bessie Carter as Prudence Featherington, Polly Walker as Portia Featherington and Harriet Cains as Philippa Featherington in episode 6 of Bridgerton (Image: © 2020 Netflix, Inc.)

• Episode 6 - Swish
The newly wedded couple begin their union with passionate fervor, but the sensual glow of the honeymoon fades with a disturbing revelation.
Elsewhere, Lady Whistledown throws a wrench in Marina’s plans for a happily ever after.

• Episode 7 – Oceans Apart
After Daphne makes a shocking discovery, her marriage becomes strained.
However, the Duke and Duchess must put on a display of wedded bliss in order to avoid further scandal.
Eloise closes in on the identity of Lady Whistledown.

Adjoa Andoh as Lady Danbury and Regé-Jean Page as Simon Basset in episode 8 of Bridgerton. (Image: © 2020 Netflix, Inc.)

• Episode 8 – After the Rain
As the London season of 1813 comes to a close, the less-than happy Duke and Duchess consider going their separate ways after the season’s last ball.
Can Daphne and her husband finally see eye-to-eye and save their marriage?
Lord Featherington tries one last scheme and Lady Whistledown’s identity is finally revealed.

• You can see Bridgerton on Netflix from December 25, 2020.