A message from Lady Whistledown: Netflix orders Seasons 3 and 4 of hit series 'Bridgerton'
Dearest readers: More "Bridgerton" is on the way!
The Shonda Rhimes-produced Netflix series "Bridgerton," filled with drama, romance and scandals of high-powered families of Regency-era London, is set to return for two more seasons. The streaming service announced Tuesday it would be ordering a third and fourth season of the show, which is currently in production of its second season.
The show's extension was revealed in a "special announcement" from Lady Whistledown, the series' narrator.
"It seems we have a rather special announcement. Bridgerton shall return for seasons three and four," the release said. "This author shall have to purchase more ink..."
"Bridgerton" showrunner Chris Van Dusen confirmed the news in a tweet, thanking fans for "embracing" the show.
"I’ve poured every ounce of myself into creating this show and the way the world continues to embrace it continues to AMAZE ME. Thank you @netflix," Van Dusen wrote.
The series is based on romance novels written by Julia Quinn about the Bridgerton family – rich, respected and known for their beautiful brood of eight children – and the lords and ladies of the upper class surrounding them in 1813 London society during the "social season."
The second season is expected to be focused on Anthony Bridgerton, played by Johnathan Bailey. Following Quinn's novels, her second book called "The Viscount Who Loved Me" gives a few clues into what to expect for the series' return. In the novel, Anthony, a playboy – or "rake," as Lady Whistledown calls him – has finally decided to settle down and sets his sights on the sister of Kate Sheffield, who at first shuts down their courtship and then predictably falls for him herself. Actress Simone Ashley is expected to play Anthony's love interest.
News of more "Bridgerton" may be a more positive update on the series after many fans were disappointed to find out earlier this month beloved character Simon Basset, played by Regé-Jean Page, would not be returning to the series.
"An honour to be a member of the family — on and off screen, cast, crew and incredible fans — the love is real and will just keep growing," Page tweeted after the news of his departure.
More: Bad news for 'Bridgerton' fans: Regé-Jean Page will not return as Simon Basset in Season 2
Season 2 of "Bridgerton" does not yet have a release date.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Bridgerton' renewed for Seasons 3, 4 of Netflix Shonda Rhimes series
