The New 'Bridgerton' Season 2 Photos Are An Austen Vibe

Bridgerton's first season was a massive hit, more extensive than just about anyone anticipated. But it also set up an accidental stumbling block for Season 2. As part of the show's push to make Julia Quinn's series of singular romances a larger ensemble, the series emphasized Anthony Bridgerton as the overbearing older brother and one of the obstacles that stand in the way of the central couple in question. But as the series is following the books, Season 2 is now all about Anthony, centering him as the romantic hero. That means the show has some creative character work to do in squaring that circle.

So, how do you make a romantic hero, initially disliked by the reader (and the series' heroine), into a heartthrob? Luckily, there's a regency writer who is famous for her ability to turn the "guy we all initially disliked" into "the guy we desperately need the heroine to realize is perfect for her." Jane Austen may have only finished six books in her lifetime. However, all of them are master classes in the different ways men can go from appearing to be overbearing asses to total dreamboats our heroine absolutely must marry.

If the new photos from Bridgerton are any indication, writer and showrunner Chris Van Dusen sat down with the 1995 Pride and Prejudice and took copious notes. Season 2 may lack the Duke of Hastings to take our breaths away, but who needs Simon Basset when you've got a Viscount who's going full Darcy?