Bridgerton series 4 just dropped its final four episodes on Netflix, and fans are buzzing over one major twist. Penelope Bridgerton, played by Nicola Coughlan, has finally hung up her pen as Lady Whistledown – the anonymous gossip queen who’s been stirring up scandal all along.
But someone new has picked up the infamous mantle, leaving viewers desperate to know: who is the mysterious new Lady Whistledown?
Penelope Passes the Quill
In the gripping finale, Penelope and her hubby Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) are stunned when a fresh scandal sheet lands across Mayfair. Showrunner Jess Brownell confirmed this fresh storyline isn’t from Julia Quinn’s books, meaning the show’s going full curveball.
“Penelope was Julia Quinn’s Whistledown, so we knew we couldn’t really play with that reveal for too long because people could just Google it,” Jess told Tudum. “But now, we get to play with audience expectations.”
Who’s the New Lady Whistledown? Fans Weigh In
- Hyacinth Bridgerton? Many fans suspect Hyacinth. One Reddit user posted, “I want to know who everybody thinks is the new Lady Whistledown now that Penelope is retired. I personally think it’s Hyacinth.” Another agreed, pointing out her recent desire “to find herself before looking for a husband” and her plans to “sneak into balls.”
- Varley or Cressida? Some think Varley could be spilling secrets after overhearing Mayfair’s dirt. Others mention Cressida or even Mrs Mondrich as potential suspects.
- Alfie? A surprising theory spotted the subtle voice change in Lady Whistledown’s final voiceover. “It’s Alfie,” one fan guessed. “The lady’s accent shifts to his toward the end. He’s an avid reader.” Supporters love this idea for the representation angle: “A queer(ish) character, a man, a servant—it might continue the theme about inclusion and diversity.”
- Not everyone agrees. Some argue Hyacinth seems “too young” and “too spooked” to take on the role after recent traumas. The true Lady Whistledown remains a hotly debated mystery.
Bridgerton’s Best-Kept Secret Continues
The new Lady Whistledown saga opens fresh doors for scandal and surprises in Bridgerton’s world. With the show ditching book spoilers, fans can expect twists that no one saw coming. Who do you think the next master of Mayfair’s whispers is?
Drop your theories below!
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