Netflix says it has a new most-watched series in Bridgerton — although The Witcher might still have a claim to that throne as well.
The streamer had earlier estimated that 63 million member accounts would check out the Shonda Rhimes-produced period drama over its first 28 days of release. (Netflix counts a view as someone watching at least two minutes of a series or film.)
Now that 28 days have actually passed since the show’s Dec. 25 premiere, however, that projection turned out to be way off: Netflix says 82 million member households have viewed the show, the most since it switched to the two-minute standard in late 2019. It surpasses the prior record of 76 million views in 28 days for The Witcher.
Bridgerton is an American streaming television period drama series created by Chris Van Dusen and produced by Shonda Rhimes. It is based on Julia Quinn’s novels set in the competitive world of Regency-era London’s Ton during the season when debutantes are presented at court.
Bridgerton premiered on Netflix on December 25, 2020. The eight-episode first season was met with positive reviews. With a viewership of 82 million households, it has become the most-watched series on Netflix. In January 2021, the series was renewed for a second season.
Bridgerton plot
Set between 1813 and 1827, the Bridgerton Series is a collection of eight novels, each featuring one of the eight children of the late Viscount Bridgerton: Anthony, Benedict, Colin, Daphne, Eloise, Francesca, Gregory, and Hyacinth.
The drama centers on the Bridgerton family: Violet, Dowager Viscountess Bridgerton; her four sons, Anthony, Benedict, Colin and Gregory and her four daughters, Daphne, Eloise, Francesca and Hyacinth. Also featured are the Featheringtons: Portia, Lady Featherington; her husband the Baron; their three daughters, Philippa, Prudence and Penelope; and their cousin Marina Thompson.
Each episode includes narration by actress Julie Andrews, who voices the anonymous and ever-scandalous newsletter columnist known as Lady Whistledown. As eldest daughter Daphne Bridgerton enters her first season with Queen Charlotte’s favour, she meets Simon Basset, Duke of Hastings. Despite being encouraged by his mentor, Lady Danbury, the Duke is determined not to marry.
Bridgerton on its way to becoming top watched Netflix show
The Netflix series has hit iconic status becoming a popular household title for many. Since its December 2020 release, it’s become the most popular show in the platform’s history in a few short weeks and has already secured a second season.
The romantic comedy-drama has also gathered legions of devoted followers who find delight in the show’s portrayal of a bygone British era.
