When thinking about matches made in entertainment heaven, it doesn’t get much greater than Netflix and Shonda Rhimes. The powerhouse producer is responsible for a slew of award-winning series—like Scandal, How to Get Away With Murder and Grey’s Anatomy—and now, thanks to a rumoured nine-figure deal she’s inked with the streaming giant, we can expect a whole lot of Shondaland goodness coming our way.
First up in what will be a suite of movies and shows between the duo, is a dreamy historical drama that you will want to devour immediately.
Inspired by Julia Quinn’s best-selling novels, Bridgerton follows Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor), the eldest daughter of the powerful Bridgerton family as she makes her debut onto Regency London’s competitive marriage market (stay with us). Hoping to follow in her parent’s footsteps and find a match sparked by true love, Daphne’s prospects initially seem to be unrivalled.
But as her older brother begins to rule out her potential suitors, the high society scandal sheet written by the mysterious Lady Whistledown casts aspersions on Daphne. Enter the highly desirable and rebellious Duke of Hastings (played by the seriously dreamy Regé-Jean Page), committed bachelor and the catch of the season for the debutantes’ mamas. Despite proclaiming that they want nothing the other has to offer, their attraction is undeniable and sparks fly as they find themselves engaged in an increasing battle of wits while navigating society’s expectations for their future. Eventually making a pact that helps both of their plights, it could be that rather than playing "the game", they end up playing themselves.
The romantic, scandalous, and quick-witted series has all the hallmarks of Shonaland special. Think jaw-droppingly beautiful sets, incredible costumes, sassy one-liners, a banging playlist (think a string quartet playing Ariana Grande's Thank You, Next) and a cracking cast including the always incredible Nicola Coughlan (Derry Girls), Jonathan Bailey (Broadchurch) and the OG queen (in our eyes) Julie Andrews, as the voice of Lady Whistledown.
In short, it’s absolutely epic. Not convinced? Scope the trailer below:
When you're done, tackle this list of Netflix's best historical dramas.
Image Credit: Netflix