Bridgerton’s Author Explains Important Difference Between ‘Race-Blind Casting’ And ‘Color-Conscious Casting’ While Discussing The Netflix Series’ Diverse Ensemble

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Every time news about a new season of Bridgerton is announced, it ignites excitement among fans worldwide with Netflix subscriptions. Unfortunately, Bridgerton Season 4 won’t be on next year’s TV schedule as it’s not yet ready for this year’s Netflix premieres. However, viewers have already been given a sneak peek that the upcoming episodes will center around Benedict, and another actor of color, Yerin Ha from Australia-Korea, has been cast as his love interest. Recently, Bridgerton’s author clarified the distinction between the show’s “color-conscious casting” and the concept of “race-blind casting.

What Did Bridgerton’s Author Say About The Show And Color Conscious Casting?

One intriguing aspect that drew viewers to Bridgerton when it initially premiered was its innovative take on a Regency-era love story, offering a fresh perspective that left many breathless. While the show retained classic elements such as elegant costumes, refined dialogue, and strict social norms, it also introduced contemporary music reinterpreted as period pieces, passionate scenes, and a strikingly diverse cast unparalleled in a romance series set during the early 1800s.

The lady who ignites our affection for “Bridgerton”, author Julia Quinn, recently discussed with The Charlotte Observer how the casting team selects characters for this adaptation of Regency-era London’s high society, when asked to elaborate on the decision and influence of colorblind casting for the blockbuster series. Quinn explained:

Initially, it’s important to clarify that the term ‘race-blind casting’ doesn’t resonate with producers as it might suggest a lack of deliberation. Instead, they prefer the term ‘color-conscious casting,’ which indicates thoughtfulness in the selection process. A truly color-blind casting could result in an unrealistic Bridgerton family that may not even resemble biological relatives. Although I wasn’t involved in the decision, I wholeheartedly endorse it. I think it’s fantastic as anything that encourages more people to identify with a story that is grand, romantic, glamorous, and has a positive conclusion is commendable.

The concept of “color-blind casting” implies considering an actor’s ethnicity or race irrelevant during the casting process, as expressed by Quinn. While this idea appears beneficial for promoting diversity and showcasing various aspects of humanity within our narratives, it faces a significant challenge: true color-blindness is difficult, if not impossible, to achieve.

The Experience of Being Chosen to Play an Icons Role in Bridgerton, as Told by the Actor Who Recently Landed It

Similarly to how we recognize various features that make up someone’s physical appearance, we often can identify if a person appears to come from a particular cultural background. The goal is to move past any preconceived notions based on ethnicity and instead form our judgments about them based on their actions, personal qualities, values, and other aspects of their character and behavior.

It’s wonderful news that the show’s producers carefully consider character diversity when casting. This thoughtful approach enabled them to seamlessly incorporate aspects of the Sharma family’s heritage in Season 2, and present Queen Charlotte as a female character of color who faced racism during her marriage to King George. Overall, many viewers appreciate the show for its inclusive casting decisions, and it would be wise not to change that formula.

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2025-02-05 23:37