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“Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story” is the latest installment in the Bridgerton universe on Netflix and has quickly garnered success. Serving as a prequel to the main narrative stemming from Julia Quinn’s book series, this spin-off delves into the lives of several secondary characters introduced in Bridgerton, with a particular focus on Queen Charlotte (portrayed by India Amarteifio and Golda Rosheuvel). Joining her on this journey are her loyal footman, Brimsley, Lady Agatha Danbury, Lady Violet Bridgerton, and of course, King George III.
Throughout the six episodes of the first season, viewers are treated to the dramatic ebbs and flows of aristocratic life, where traditions and occasionally their defiance play pivotal roles. Thankfully, in the Bridgerton universe, mortality is not too heavily emphasized, though it remains an inevitable part of life that touches every individual, regardless of their social standing.
In the inaugural (and likely sole) season of “Queen Charlotte,” only two characters meet their demise, and contrary to some concerns, King George is not among them, even amidst his worsening mental health condition.
Princess Charlotte of Wales
In the first episode, “Queen to Be,” an older Queen Charlotte is confronted with the news of a family member’s passing. While she immediately assumes it to be her husband, it is later revealed that it is her 21-year-old granddaughter, Princess Charlotte of Wales. Although limited information is provided about this character, it’s widely known that she was the sole daughter of the Queen’s eldest child, George IV, and the only legitimate heir to the throne among her grandchildren. Charlotte’s tragic demise during childbirth triggered a succession crisis, a poignant aspect explored further in Bridgerton’s primary timeline.
Lord Herman Danbury
In episode 3, “Even Days,” Lady Danbury’s most fervent wish comes true as her elderly husband, Lord Herman Danbury, passes away. Given his advanced age in comparison to his wife, his passing isn’t surprising, yet for Agatha, it marks the end of a long wait. Lord Danbury was not particularly endeared by his wife, especially due to their forced union. Although Lady Danbury pities him, there are no warm sentiments in their relationship. Thus, when her husband succumbs while they are intimate, Lady Danbury swiftly celebrates the event with her trusted maid, finally liberated from the constraints that bound her. The exact cause of Lord Danbury’s passing remains unclear, but given the circumstances, a heart attack appears to be the most plausible explanation. Nevertheless, there’s also a theory that Lady Danbury may have played a role in his demise, casting the situation in a different light.
“Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story” is now available for streaming on Netflix.