Bridgerton fans, if you’re not up-to-date with the latest book or show, here’s a heads-up – this article contains spoilers!

Netflix viewers are quite upset about the latest update from the ‘ton

Bridgerton viewers are considering boycotting the series after author Julia Quinn revealed some major changes in the upcoming storyline.

Julia took to Facebook to share the news, warning that the update contains spoilers for those who haven’t read When He Was Wicked yet.

She started with, “Dear Readers—”

“Many Bridgerton fans have been surprised, and some even disappointed, with the twist at the end of Bridgerton Season 3. It turns out that Michael Stirling, who Francesca eventually falls in love with in When He Was Wicked, will instead be Michaela.”

“Those who know me from interviews over the past four years know how deeply committed I am to making the Bridgerton world more diverse and inclusive as it transitions from book to screen. But changing the gender of a major character is a significant shift. So when Jess Brownell first brought up the idea of turning Michael into Michaela for the show, I needed a lot more information before agreeing.”

She assured fans that while she trusted Shondaland’s vision for Bridgerton, she wanted to ensure they could remain true to the book’s spirit and characters.

“Jess and I had several long discussions about it,” Julia continued. “It was very important to me that Francesca’s deep love for John would be portrayed on screen.”

“When I wrote When He Was Wicked, I actually had to fight to include the first four chapters that establish Francesca’s and John’s love. My publisher was worried that writing about Fran’s love for John would diminish Michael’s role as the eventual hero. But I believed that if I didn’t show how deeply she loved John, the feelings of guilt and conflict that both Francesca and Michael experience after falling in love with each other wouldn’t make sense. I wanted the reader to truly feel that love.”

Julia expressed confidence that Francesca’s storyline will be the most emotional and heart-wrenching of the series, just like the book. “Honestly, it may be even more impactful since John is getting more screen time than he did on the page, and I think we’ve all grown to love him a bit,” she added, thanking fans for their feedback.

Julia wrapped up her post by saying, “I’m grateful for your understanding and touched by your dedication to the Bridgerton characters. I ask you to have faith in me and the Shondaland team as we move forward. I believe we’ll end up with two beautiful and moving stories, one on the page and one on the screen.”

However, not all Netflix viewers were pleased. One fan commented, “I will not watch her season, but I will always cherish the book. Your story was truly beautiful. Thank you, Julia. We’ll always have the pages.”

Another criticized, “This was an insult to your fans.”

A third echoed, “I appreciate your perspective and artistic freedom, but I love Francesca and Michael’s story as it was written. I am heartbroken that we won’t see it. This storyline could have fit better with a less developed character. Sadly, I have no interest in watching it now. But I still love your books!”

However, some fans welcomed the change. One wrote, “I love Bridgerton, and I appreciate your inclusion and diversity efforts. Thank you!” Another praised, “Julia, as always, I admire your grace, your graciousness, and your expansive vision.”

As for me, I’ve been absolutely loving Bridgerton so far and I’m excited to see what season 4 has in store!