The season ending reveal of Lady Whistledown's identity in Bridgerton was a last minute addition to the show. Bridgerton, which premiered on Netflix on Christmas Day, is based on the Julia Quinn romance novels and follows the Bridgerton family in high-society London. Lady Whistledown, the narrator and scandal-extraordinaire, plays a key role in driving the plot by writing about the season's scandals and pairings. Eloise Bridgerton, one of the younger siblings, becomes occupied with uncovering Lady Whistledown's true identity.

In the final episode of the season, it is revealed that Penelope Featherington, played by Nicola Coughlan, is Lady Whistledown.

However, Coughlan reveals that this scene was a last minute addition and was filmed after principal photography had already ended in February 2019. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the filming of this scene was kept top secret and Coughlan had to be flown in from Ireland and undergo multiple tests. Despite the challenges, Coughlan shares that it was a fun experience.

The choice to reveal Lady Whistledown's identity so soon was surprising, considering that in shows like Gossip Girl, similar plotlines were drawn out over multiple seasons to build tension.

However, Bridgerton seems to prioritize exploring the emotional dynamics and relationships of its characters. It will be interesting to see how the show develops in future seasons.

Eloise and Penelope, who are close friends in the series, had been on a quest to uncover Lady Whistledown's identity. This pursuit causes a rift in their relationship, but they eventually reunite and forgive each other. It is poetic that Eloise inadvertently protects Lady Whistledown's identity from being exposed by the Queen, not knowing that she is actually protecting her closest friend.

The reveal of Lady Whistledown's identity in Bridgerton season 1 may have come earlier than expected by some viewers, but the emotional payoff made it worthwhile. Bridgerton season 2 is expected to begin filming soon, although Netflix has not made an official announcement yet. Fans are eager to see how the story will progress and what surprises await them in the upcoming seasons.