London, March 24 The fifth season of the hit period drama "Bridgerton" will focus on actress Hannah Dodd's portrayal of Francesca Stirling, the introverted middle daughter of the Bridgerton family, Netflix and Shondaland announced on Tuesday.
The eight-episode fifth season of the Regency-era show has begun production in the United Kingdom, the streaming service said in a statement.
"Two years after losing her beloved husband, John, Fran decides to re-enter the marriage market for practical reasons. But when John's cousin Michaela (Masali Baduza) returns to London to manage the Kilmartin estate, Fran's complicated feelings will lead her to question whether to stick to her pragmatic intentions or pursue her inner passions," reads the official logline.
The fifth season is once again being produced by Jess Brownell. Shonda Rhimes, Betsy Beers, Tom Verica, and Chris Van Dusen serve as executive producers.
Based on Julia Quinn's bestselling romance novels, "Bridgerton" follows the eight Bridgerton siblings as they search for love during the social season in Regency-era England.
The series has dedicated each season to a different sibling's love story.
The first season centered on Daphne Bridgerton, season two on Anthony, season three on Colin and Penelope, and the recently concluded season four on Benedict.
Since its debut on Netflix in December 2020, the show has become one of the most consistent performers for the streaming service.