Original release: 25 December 2020
Director: Sheree Folkson
Writer: Abby McDonald
Based on: The Duke and I by Julia Quinn
Daphne is forced to choose between the seemingly perfect Prince Friedrich and her feelings for Simon, while Anthony challenges his friend to a duel after discovering that Daphne’s reputation has been compromised.
Daphne’s courtship with Prince Friedrich is going from strength to strength. Queen Charlotte openly champions the match and Friedrich presents Daphne with a magnificent diamond necklace. On paper, Friedrich is the ideal suitor, kind, royal, and eager to marry. Yet, despite trying to force her feelings, Daphne remains consumed by thoughts of Simon.
Violet Bridgerton sense the truth so she gently challenges Daphne to consider whether she truly loves the Prince. Meanwhile, Lady Danbury sees through Simon’s decision to leave England and confronts him about running from his feelings for Daphne.
At a grand ball where Friedrich is prepared to propose, an overwhelmed Daphne flees into the garden maze. Simon follows her, and away from chaperones, their unspoken tension boils over into a passionate argument and a breathless kiss. They are caught in the act by Anthony. Outraged that his best friend has compromised his sister’s honour, he demands a duel at dawn. Simon refuses to marry Daphne though, and agrees to face Anthony in the duel instead.
The stakes of the duel are high : if Anthony dies, the family loses its head; if Simon dies, Anthony will be exiled for murder. Desperate and facing his potential death, Anthony seeks out Siena, promising to run away with her if he survive, though Siena.
Meanwhile, Marina abandons the unpleasant older suitors set up by Lady Featherington and sets her sights on Colin Bridgerton, who is very taken with her. Penelope attempts to subtly warn Colin without exposing Marina’s pregnancy, but only manages to alienate him.
Learning of the duel from Anthony’s second, Daphne rides out to the field and recklessly gallops between Anthony and Simon just as they raise their pistols, halting the match.
Daphne corners Simon and tell him about an escalating threat: the scheming Cressida Cowper saw them in the maze and intends to ruin Daphne’s reputation! Still, Simon refuses to marry her. When Daphne demands to know why he would condemn her to disgrace, Simon yields, stating solemnly: “I cannot give you children.” He knows that Daphne’s dreams is to become a mother and he believes forcing her into a childless life is a cruelty he cannot inflict.
Believing his words mean he is physically unable to sire an heir, Daphne makes her choice. She steps back out to Anthony and declares the duel over. She and the Duke of Hastings will be married.
Where to watch Bridgerton
Bridgerton is available to stream exclusively on Netflix. You can also shop for Bridgerton books, soundtracks and other related releases on Amazon.
