This Bridgerton Character Is Actually Inspired By a Real Person

Summary:

• Bridgerton is a romantic period television series based on Julia Quinn's series of novels of the same name.
• Although the show is set in Regency London, the team took many creative liberties, so it cannot be called historically accurate.
• However, there is one character who was heavily inspired by the real-life story of British boxer Bill Richmond.

There are two types of period drama enthusiasts. One seeks historical accuracy and is drawn to shows that follow everything from the etiquette to the fashions of the time period to a tee, while the other enjoys the glamorized and modernized version for the sheer aesthetic of the setting.

Of course, the types of shows that cater to each of these groups are drastically different.

Netflix 's hit Bridgerton was never the show to satisfy history buffs. Based on the series of novels by Julia Quinn, which already slightly altered 1800s London to fit the narrative, the show about aristocratic life in Regency London has its own universe. This universe is perfect for a romantic escape, but terrible for educational purposes.

That's why it's even more surprising to see a real-life inspiration behind the supporting characters who were part of the first two seasons and will be back for season 3.

Who Bridgerton’s William Mondrich Is Based On?

The character of William Mondrich was first introduced in season 1 as Simon's friend and very talented boxer.

Though he was great at what he did and had no problem making money from the fights, he knew it couldn't be his permanent plan. So when Lord Featherington suggested a plan to deliberately lose one of the fights and make the bank on the crowd's bets, he agreed and took the punch.

The scheme cost Lord Featherington his life, but provided an escape for Mondrich and his family. He and his wife opened a bar, which struggled at first, but found its clientele during the events of season 2. Now that the character is set to return in Season 3, it's likely that we'll see his business thrive.

While the majority of the fandom embraced the character who was not present in the books, not many noticed his origin. Will Mondrich was heavily inspired by the British boxer Bill Richmond, who lived in London from 1795 until his death in 1829. After his retirement, Richmond ran a boxing academy and a pub in Trafalgar Square.

Although he wasn't as wealthy as old money aristocrats, he was considered an important person in the eyes of society and was even chosen to usher at the coronation of George IV in 1821.

If you want to revisit Bridgerton and see the character of William Mondrich again, you can stream the show on Netflix.