Bridgerton: Will Benedict’s queer storyline continue next season, or will it follow the books?

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

Luke Thompson, who portrays Benedict Bridgerton, has welcomed the exploration of his character's sexuality in the second part of the season.
Benedict's storyline takes a significant turn as he navigates his relationship with Lady Tilley Arnold and subsequently discovers his attraction to Paul Suarez, portrayed by Lucas Aurelio.

A Refreshing Approach

In an interview with Bustle, Thompson expressed his delight at portraying Benedict's exploration of his feelings with curiosity and minimal angst. He highlighted the refreshing nature of depicting a character exploring their sexuality without the weight of societal expectations or labels, particularly in a period marked by repression, as mentioned in a report by RadioTimes.

Challenging Traditional Narratives

Thompson acknowledged the complexity of male sexuality during the period depicted in Bridgerton, noting that Benedict's journey might align closely with modern concepts like pansexuality. He emphasized the importance of portraying Benedict's discoveries in a label-free manner, resonating with audiences seeking authentic representations.

Francesca's Romantic Journey

Beyond Benedict's storyline, Francesca Bridgerton, played by Hannah Dodd, also finds herself in the midst of romantic intrigue with Lord John Stirling's cousin, Michaela, played by Masali Baduza. Thompson commended the show's positive portrayal of queer love storylines, highlighting the joyous exploration of relationships without the overshadowing