Francesca's frequent absence may have worked in Bridgerton seasons 1 and 2, where the focus was primarily on her siblings. However, her absence in Bridgerton season 3 could greatly affect her storyline if an important character connected to her doesn't appear. In the books, Francesca disappears to study piano with an aunt in Bath shortly after the introduction of the Bridgertons in the first season. Her dynamics with the rest of her siblings are briefly explored, but Ruby Stokes' other work commitments in season 2 create unexplained absences for Francesca. This sets Francesca apart from the other Bridgertons who are shown interacting more with their siblings.

Hannah Dodd's recasting as the second youngest Bridgerton sister, Francesca, can finally put her front and center in Bridgerton season 3. However, in addition to exploring Francesca's place in her family, season 3 must introduce a key character for her story. Unlike her siblings, Francesca marries twice in the books. Her first husband, John Stirling, Earl of Kilmartin, is introduced in the book "When He Was Wicked" but their romance is only touched upon before he dies of a cerebral aneurysm. His death remains unexplained and heavily affects Francesca, as no one knows why he suddenly dies after lying down due to a terrible headache.

Francesca's story eventually focuses on her falling in love with John's cousin, Michael, in "When He Was Wicked." However, time needs to pass between the two romances. Season 3 must deal with Francesca and John's short engagement, wedding, and move to Scotland, creating enough time between their marriage and John's death two years later. This will allow for Francesca's romance with Michael in the years after John's death, even if her story is featured in a later season with a time jump.

Francesca's refusal to abandon her widowhood is a central point in her book.

In season 1 of Bridgerton, the power that marriage brings to women is highlighted, and Francesca's experience as a widow has given her a taste of freedom. She takes care of the Earldom of Kilmartin after Michael leaves for India, and she enjoys living her life away from the constraints of her mother's house. Francesca only considers marrying again because she wants a child, and she quickly escapes to Scotland when the prospects of a new marriage don't pan out. Marrying Michael becomes the perfect solution for her because she falls in love with him and doesn't have to navigate the challenges of the ton to achieve her goals.

Overall, Bridgerton season 3 must introduce John Stirling to set up Francesca's story properly. It must also explore her place in the family and her complex relationship with her late husband. The series has established a different dynamic among the Bridgertons compared to the books, making Francesca's absence more noticeable and her story more important. With the right character introduction and focus, Bridgerton season 3 can bring Francesca to the forefront and continue captivating audiences with its Regency-era romance and drama.