Netflix has announced the release date and shared first-look images for its upcoming period drama, Bridgerton. Developed by Shonda Rhimes, creator of Grey's Anatomy, Scandal, and How to Get Away with Murder, Bridgerton is based on Julia Quinn's bestselling novel series. The show will explore the lives of the eight aristocratic children of the late Viscount Bridgerton in Regency London.

The Bridgerton novels were initially meant to be a trilogy, but Quinn became so immersed in the family dynamics that she ended up developing eight novels, each centered on one of the Viscount's children. Rhimes, who signed an eight-show deal with Netflix in 2017, saw potential in bringing Quinn's work to the screen, despite the industry's reluctance to adapt romance novels.

Dame Julie Andrews has been signed as the narrator for the series, and Phoebe Dynevor and Regé-Jean Page have been cast as the leads. The rest of the main cast includes Jonathan Bailey, Golda Rosheuvel, Luke Newton, Claudia Jessie, Nicola Coughlan, Ruby Barker, Sabrina Bartlett, Ruth Gemmell, Adjoa Andoh, and Polly Walker.

Netflix has shared several first-look images from Bridgerton, confirming that the show will be part of its Christmas lineup. All eight episodes will be available on December 25, 2020.

The images showcase the series' ensemble in their period outfits, including one that captures the chemistry between the leads, Daphne and Simon, and another featuring the close-knit Bridgerton siblings.

The story of Bridgerton follows Daphne, the eldest daughter of the Bridgerton family, as she enters London's marriage market in the early 19th century. Seeking true love like her parents, Daphne attracts many proposals but faces challenges when her brother rejects some of them, leading to her vilification by Lady Whistledown, a mysterious gossip columnist. Amidst these matchmaking struggles, Daphne meets the rebellious Duke of Hastings, Simon Basset, and despite their differences, they develop a strong connection.

Bridgerton promises to be a Christmas gift for Netflix subscribers who enjoy romantic dramas, following the success of Emily in Paris. The first look images suggest that the show will rival Downton Abbey in its grandeur and appeal. Shonda Rhimes, known for creating successful woman-led TV shows, aims to prove that romance is a valuable source material. With Quinn's novel series featuring eight books, each focused on a different sibling, viewers can expect further seasons of Bridgerton to revolve around other beloved characters.