After much anticipation, Bridgerton season 3 finally brings Francesca Bridgerton into the limelight. The beloved Netflix series returns, and this time, it’s the turn of the sixth Bridgerton sibling (yes, the ones named alphabetically) to shine. No longer in the background, Francesca is making her grand debut in high society. Along with her introduction, fans will also meet a new face in the cast: Hannah Dodd, who steps into the role of Francesca in her Netflix debut.
Francesca might not speak up as much as her Bridgerton siblings, but her story holds a special place in the hearts of fans of Julia Quinn’s books. For viewers familiar with the series’ usual romantic twists, Francesca’s journey offers a refreshing change. Read on to discover what role she’ll play in season 3 and what exciting developments might await her in the seasons to come.
Who is the Actress Playing Francesca Bridgerton in Season 3?
In season 3, Francesca Bridgerton takes center stage, thanks to a new actress stepping into the role. Hannah Dodd replaces Ruby Stokes as the quiet yet intriguing Bridgerton sibling, and this time, Francesca is no longer just a background character. As she navigates the complexities of London’s elite society, her journey becomes a key focus of the season.
Before landing the role of Francesca in Bridgerton, British actress and model Hannah Dodd made her on-screen debut in the period drama Harlots, a bold and witty series on Hulu. Dodd’s career also includes appearances in Find Me in Paris (Hulu), Eternals (Marvel), and Anatomy of a Scandal (Netflix), where she portrayed the younger version of Sophie, a character played by Sienna Miller.
What Happens When Francesca Makes Her First Appearance in Bridgerton Season 3?
Francesca Bridgerton is a breath of fresh air compared to the rest of her family. While her siblings, like Eloise, often find themselves in the center of attention—whether by choice or by accident—Francesca is content staying in the background. She doesn’t thrive on the hustle and bustle of the social scene, and in fact, just wants to get through it as quickly as possible. As a member of the ton’s most eligible family, this proves more challenging than she’d hoped. Francesca isn’t chasing after an intense, whirlwind romance like some of her siblings, but instead, she simply wants a quiet, kind partner and a home of her own, which seems almost impossible in the packed Bridgerton household. All she’s after is peace, not passion—though finding that in the world of high society might be harder than she imagined.
By the end of episode 2, Francesca is named the “Sparkler” of the season by Queen Charlotte after an impromptu recital organized by Mama Bridgerton and Lady Danbury. As season 3 continues, Francesca gains attention from many suitors, but one in particular stands out: Lord John Stirling, Earl of Kilmartin (Victor Alli). Though awkward socially, their connection grows through two key moments: a quiet chat outside a ball and his thoughtful gesture of re-arranging a musical piece for her. Their courtship may be subtle, but it’s sweet and promising.
What is Francesca Bridgerton’s storyline in her book?
Francesca’s romantic journey in Julia Quinn’s sixth Bridgerton novel, When He Was Wicked, is a standout for many fans of the series. At the start of the book, Francesca is already married to John Sterling. However, John isn’t the main romantic focus of the story. Instead, the spotlight falls on Michael Sterling, John’s cousin and best friend, who has a reputation as one of London’s most notorious rakes. In the opening chapter, we discover a hidden truth: Michael has long harbored feelings for Francesca, but he has kept them to himself out of loyalty to John.
Two years into Francesca and John’s marriage, tragedy strikes when John dies suddenly. Francesca, devastated by his death, discovers she’s pregnant but suffers a miscarriage. While Michael inherits the earldom, the novel jumps four years, showing how Michael and Francesca have grown distant. Michael has spent time in India grieving, while Francesca has focused on her duties as the widowed Countess. Both return to the marriage market, expecting a marriage of convenience, but sparks fly as Francesca begins to see Michael in a new light.