Bridgerton showrunner Jess Brownell spoke out after the decision to make Francesca and Michaela the season 5 leads received backlash from some viewers. "I'm very happy for people to discuss and debate the show and our approach to adapting the books. But I want to state really plainly, there is no place for homophobia or racism or any form of bigotry in the Bridgerton world," Brownell told Tudum on Tuesday, March 24. "Bridgerton is about love and inclusivity." Brownell specifically defended actors Masali Baduza and Hannah Dodd, whose characters will be the central focus of the upcoming season.