15 things you probably didn't know about 'Bridgerton'

Olivia-Anne ClearyJan 6, 2021, 03:54 IST

The Netflix series "Bridgerton" premiered on December 25, 2020.LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX

After premiering on Netflix, the period drama "Bridgerton" became a global hit.
Julie Andrews voices the show's narrator, Lady Whistledown.
The TV show is based on Julia Quinn's series of Regency romance novels.
The wet-shirt scene from the 1995 TV adaptation of "Pride and Prejudice" inspired some elements of "Bridgerton."

On "Bridgerton," Lady Whistledown (voiced by Julie Andrews) narrates and exposes the lives and secrets of elite families as debutantes come out to society and find their match.

Based on the novels by Julia Quinn, the Netflix series captured the hearts of viewers around the world who fell for the Regency-era setting and intense chemistry between Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor) and Simon, Duke of Hastings (Regé-Jean Page).

But even die-hard fans may not know everything about the show.

Read on for 15 facts about "Bridgerton" that would even shock Lady Whistledown herself.

Warning: This slideshow contains major spoilers for season one of "Bridgerton."

Despite its Regency-era setting, "Bridgerton" is far from historically accurate.

"Bridgerton" creator Chris Van Dusen wanted the show to reflect modern society. LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX

The author of the "Bridgerton" book series served as a consultant for the TV adaptation.

Phoebe Dynevor and Claudia Jessie on "Bridgerton." LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX

Although "Bridgerton" is fictional, Queen Charlotte is a real historical figure.

Golda Rosheuvel on "Bridgerton." LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX

Fans of the "Bridgerton" book series impacted Nicola Coughlan's performance.

Nicola Coughlan on "Bridgerton." Netflix

Dynevor starred on the TV series "Snatch" alongside "Harry Potter" actor Rupert Grint.

Phoebe Dynevor on "Snatch." Crackle

Jonathan Bailey played a leading role on a Phoebe Waller-Bridge TV series.

Jonathan Bailey on "Crashing." Channel 4

Andrews voiced the role of Lady Whistledown.

Julie Andrews lent her voice to the role of Lady Whistledown on "Bridgerton." Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images for Hamptons International Film Festival

Rhimes was determined to get the rights to the book series.

Shonda Rhimes has produced popular shows like "Bridgerton," "Grey's Anatomy," and "Scandal." Evan Agostini/Invision/AP

The soaked-shirt scene from "Pride and Prejudice" inspired some of the series' racier moments.

The wet-shirt scene from "Pride and Prejudice." BBC

The show's sex scenes were carefully coordinated under the watchful eye of an intimacy director.

Phoebe Dynevor and Regé-Jean Page on "Bridgerton." Netflix

Fans aren't the only ones who've compared the series to "Gossip Girl."

Regé-Jean Page on "Bridgerton." LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX

Van Dusen came up with the idea to use modern-day pop songs against the Regency-era backdrop.

"Wildest Dreams," "Bad Guy," and "Thank U, Next" are all songs on season one of "Bridgerton." Liam Daniels/Netflix

The show's costume designer focused on creating a "Shonda" look.

The Featheringtons wore elaborate outfits on "Bridgerton." NICK BRIGGS/NETFLIX

The identity of Lady Whistledown was not always set in stone.