The One (Surprisingly SFW) Scene That Made Us Fall in Love with Bridgerton
When Bridgerton first hit our screens on Christmas Day 2020, viewers fell in love immediately – even if its two main characters didn't.
The first episode of what has become a much-adored series takes place in the social season of 1813 when Daphne Bridgerton is the seasons Diamond and looking for a suitor.
Though many come her way, all eyes are on Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, who actually does not want to let go of his bachelor lifestyle.
Together, the pair pull off a fake courtship – one that will Daphne desirable while showing the ton that the Duke of Hastings is unavailable (so he can continue his bachelor life).
The scene that made us fall in love with the show
Bridgerton's first episode certainly made for interesting viewing and there were many not SFW scenes from the start. The final scene, however, is the one that meant viewers fell in love with the show and came back for more.
With their fake courtship decided, Simon and Daphne take a long walk outside to the dancefloor under the watchful eyes of the guests.
When they reach the dancefloor, Simon says to Daphne, "stare into my eyes" and "if this is to work, we must appear madly in love." The paid dance to soft music and the scene is filled with warm colors on a background of warm-white fireworks. It oozes romance.
It's safe to say, the chemistry is electric between the pair and viewers get a sense immediately that this false relationship will end up turning into a real one.
The way Bridgerton ends this first episode gives its audience a taste of what they can expect. There's melodrama, tension, romance, and sex. It's like mixing Downton Abbey with Gossip Girl. The chemistry between Daphne and Simon is electric and the costume design and casting work are superb.
The cinematography here is one of the best of the whole series. Season 2 just didn't keep up with this level. Lady Whistledown's narration over the end of the scene made it even more exciting. Now that viewers know who she is, there's automatically less awe and wonder.
Overall, the whole show is awash with aesthetic splendor, but it's this first dance scene that really lets the audience sink into the plot of troubled romance and hope of a real romance between the pair. Even if Daphne and Simon weren't in love at this point, the viewers certainly were!