Fans of
Bridgerton are bracing themselves for
Season 4 Part 2 — not just for romantic twists, but for a
major character death that could shake up the Ton. As the final four episodes of the season prepare to premiere on
26 February 2026, new clues, teasers, and hints from the books have sparked intense speculation online.
📺 Author Teases Emotional Turn
Bridgerton creator and author
Julia Quinn has openly warned viewers that Part 2 will be emotionally heavy. In a recent interview, she told
Us Weekly that scenes she witnessed during filming were “devastatingly beautiful” and that fans should “have your tissues ready” — suggesting grief and loss are on the horizon.This comment has fueled theories about who might not survive the upcoming episodes — a rare moment of potential tragedy in the otherwise romantic series.
🖤 Clues from the Trailer
Fans noticed striking imagery in the
Part 2 trailer:·
Violet Bridgerton and other characters dressed in black, a stark departure from the usual colourful Regency wardrobes — often signalling
mourning or funerals in the era’s customs.
This visual has intensified speculation that a funeral scene — and thus a death — is imminent in the story.
📖 Who Might Die? Top Theories
While nothing is official yet, here are the most talked‑about possibilities based on the series’ move and the original novels:
1. John Stirling – Most Likely Candidate
In the book
When He Was Wicked,
John Stirling, Francesca Bridgerton’s husband,
dies suddenly of a brain aneurysm after a few happy years together. Because the show has closely followed Francesca and John’s relationship so far, many believe Netflix might adapt this plot point in
Season 4 Part 2.If this happens, it would explain the black clothing (a funeral) and why Part 2 might be particularly heartbreaking for Francesca’s storyline — setting the stage for her future romance with Michaela.
2. Marina Thompson – Possible but Less Certain
Another theory involves
Marina Thompson (Lady Crane), a character from earlier seasons who, in the books, dies after complications following a suicide attempt and subsequent illness. Her death leads Eloise Bridgerton toward her next love story in later books (
To Sir Phillip, With Love).Some fans speculate the show could bring Marina’s death forward to build momentum for future seasons. However, because her connection to the current Bridgerton circle is weaker, this is seen as
less likely than John’s death — though still possible.
3. King George – A Royal Theory
Another popular fan theory suggests
King George III might die this season. In the Regency era timeline, his health is already a concern in the series, and queen Charlotte’s expressed fear of being alone after his death adds weight to this possibility. A royal death would certainly warrant widespread mourning among the Ton.However, producers have previously indicated they may not strictly follow real‑world timelines, making this theory intriguing but less certain.
🎭 Final Thoughts
At this stage,
no official confirmation has been made about a character’s death in
Bridgerton Season 4 Part 2. But:·
Julia Quinn’s comments hint at something emotionally powerful ahead.·
Trailer visuals suggest funeral scenes are coming.·
Book lore points strongly toward
John Stirling’s death as the most likely on‑screen event.Whether it’s john, a royal figure, or another character entirely, viewers should prepare for a poignant and possibly tearful turn in the Bridgerton saga when Part 2 arrives.
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