Netflix has been producing some fan-favorite originals, and very few have reached the level of Bridgerton. Whether due to its quality or not, fans love it. To illustrate its success, the show has brought Netflix a huge amount of viewership.
Just in the first week of streaming Season 3 of Bridgerton, it garnered 45 million viewers. In the following weeks, it maintained viewership levels of around 25 million, 11.6 million, and 6.9 million. For the majority of the time, it held the top spot. As the second part of the third season is released, the viewership will likely increase even more.
But Bridgerton is more than just viewership for Netflix.
Netflix’s Shonda Rhimes-produced series Bridgerton has reportedly contributed over £250 million to the U.K. economy since its 2020 debut, benefiting over 5,000 local businesses.
To commemorate this, Rhimes will open markets at the London Stock Exchange on Friday. This announcement follows the release of the second part of Season 3, focusing on the romance between Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton.
Rhimes claims the series has a significant cultural and economic impact, influencing trends and supporting jobs. However, this celebration seems overly self-congratulatory, emphasizing the show’s economic benefits while glossing over broader industry challenges.
Julia Hoggett, CEO of the London Stock Exchange, praised the creative industries’ contributions, likening their historical significance to the Exchange’s own history. The emphasis on economic impact may overshadow the need for a more nuanced discussion about sustainable growth and support within the creative sector.
Bridgerton is definitely a part of Britain’s culture now, with viewers even naming their children after the characters. The show has led to a 51% rise in babies named Daphne, a 27% increase in those named Eloise, and a 26% boost in the name Colin since its premiere. Additionally, the series has spurred increased tourism to its filming locations, including Bath and Bristol.
So, while we might question the quality of the show, Bridgerton is definitely relevant and probably more than ever. From cultural to economic aspects, Bridgerton is becoming more than just a show.