Bridgerton season 5 is officially in production, with Netflix already confirming the hit period drama will return in 2027.

As filming continues, details about the cast are beginning to emerge, including one confirmed exit, several returning stars and one former lead who says she has yet to be asked back.

Season 5 will centre on Francesca Bridgerton, played by Hannah Dodd, as her story follows her life after the death of her husband John Stirling. Masali Baduza is also set to return as Michaela Stirling, who will play a central role in the new season.

The upcoming series will introduce several new cast members, including Tega Alexander as Christopher Anderson, Jacqueline Boatswain as Helen Stirling and Gemma Knight Jones as Lady Elizabeth Ashworth.

Among the returning cast are Ruth Gemmell as Violet Bridgerton, Golda Rosheuvel as Queen Charlotte, Adjoa Andoh as Lady Danbury, Claudia Jessie as Eloise Bridgerton and the Mondrich family, with showrunner Jess Brownell confirming Alice and Will Mondrich will continue to feature in the story.

Nicola Coughlan has also confirmed she will return as Penelope Bridgerton, although fans should expect fewer appearances.

Speaking previously on the Dish podcast, she said, “Season five had started filming already, so I won’t be in it very much. I’m always happy to come back. I think it’s a genuinely lovely job to come back to.”

Jonathan Bailey, Simone Ashley, Luke Thompson, Yerin Ha, Luke Newton and Polly Walker are all expected to return, although Netflix has yet to officially confirm their involvement.

Victor Alli is not expected to return following John Stirling’s death in season 4, marking the most significant confirmed departure from the cast.

Meanwhile, Phoebe Dynevor, who played Daphne Bridgerton, revealed she has still not been invited back.

She previously said, “I have not received a call. When I get that call, I will be there if I can,” indicating she remains open to reprising the role if approached.