Julia Quinn, the writer of the book series “Bridgerton”, has shared her thoughts about the controversy that arose after a lot was changed in the third season of the famous Netflix show.
The moment part two of Season 3 got to the Internet, fans blasted directors for making Michael Sterling becomes Michaela Sterling as a character. In an Instagram post Quinn, however, cleared up that this choice resulted from extensive conversations with Jesse Brownell among other producers on board.
In her post, Quinn talked about how fans responded to all these changes at the end of season three including: Francesca Bridgerton’s love interest which was change from Michael Sterling in When He Was Evil into Michaela. Although some viewers may find this shocking or disappointing, she believes Francesca Bridgerton’s storyline will be “the most touch-y heartbreaking story” while John spends much more time on screen than he does on page.
Quinn expounded further on her commitment to maintaining the spirit of the initial book in TV adaptation and particularly regarding Francesca’s love for her first husband John. “I actually had to fight for the first four chapters, which included establishing romance,” she wrote saying that her publisher was afraid it would undermine Michael’s role as an ultimate romantic hero.
John dies from aneurysm shortly after marrying Francesca in “When He Was Evil,” and then comes Lord Kilmartin who loves her from far away but whom she can still pursue. The film adaptation by Quinn hinged on more screen time given to John so as to provoke deeper feelings in viewers.
Finally, Quinn thanked those who read or watched anything about Bridgertons and expressed gratitude for their feedback and understanding. She advised them not to lose faith in what she can do together with Shondaland team assuring that both versions will be beautiful and moving.
“In conclusion I would like to say thank you readers and fans for your feedback; I appreciate your understanding and am move by your unwavering commitment to the characters in the Bridgerton universe,” Quinn wrote. “I ask that you give me and the Shondaland team some confidence as we move forward.” . I think we’ll end up with two stories, one on paper and one on screen, and they’ll both be beautiful and touching.
