Bridgerton: The Asian Influence You Never Knew You Needed

Hello, dear readers! Grab your tea and let's dive into a topic that's been sweeping the nation - and the globe - by storm. You've heard of Bridgerton, right? The Regency-era drama, filled with scandal, romance, and stunning visuals, has taken Netflix by storm. But did you know that this period piece is also making waves in the Asian community? Let's explore the Bridgerton Asian connection, shall we? Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and bridgerton asian.

A Refreshing Take on Period Drama

Bridgerton, created by Chris Van Dusen and produced by Shonda Rhimes, is a breath of fresh air in the period drama genre. It's not just the steamy scenes or the fabulous costumes - it's the diversity that sets it apart. And we're not just talking about race here, folks. We're talking about Asian representation in a way that's authentic, meaningful, and long overdue.

Meet Our Favourite Asian Characters

Lady Danbury

Let's start with the fabulous Lady Danbury, played by the equally fabulous Adjoa Andoh. She's the voice of reason, the mentor, and the confidante we all need in our lives. Andoh, a Ghanaian-British actress, brings depth and charm to the character, making her a fan favorite.

Colonel Brandon

Next up, we have the dashing Colonel Brandon, played by Luke Thompson. Now, you might be thinking, "But he's not Asian!" And you'd be right. But stay with me, because this is where it gets interesting. In the original novels by Julia Quinn, Brandon is described as having "a touch of the exotic" about him, with "high cheekbones and dark, almond-shaped eyes." So, while the character isn't explicitly Asian in the show, there are certainly hints at it.

The Asian Influence Behind the Scenes

But the Bridgerton Asian connection goes beyond just the on-screen representation. The show's costume designer, Ellen Mirojnick, has cited Japanese fashion as an inspiration for some of the costumes. The intricate patterns and bold colors of traditional Japanese kimonos can be seen in the opulent gowns worn by the characters.

And let's not forget the music. The show's score, composed by Kris Bowers, features a blend of classical and modern instruments, with a nod to Asian musical traditions. The result is a unique, otherworldly sound that perfectly complements the show's blend of history and fantasy.

Why Representation Matters

So, why is all this Bridgerton Asian representation so important? Well, for starters, it's about time we see more diversity in period dramas. For too long, these shows have been dominated by white faces, despite the fact that history was made by people of all races and backgrounds.

But it's also about visibility. Seeing yourself represented on screen can be a powerful thing. It can inspire a sense of belonging, a sense of pride. And for young Asian kids growing up in a world that often tells them they don't belong, that can make all the difference.

Bridgerton Asian: A Step in the Right Direction

Now, we're not saying that Bridgerton is perfect. There's still room for improvement when it comes to Asian representation - and representation of all kinds. But what the show is doing, it's doing well. It's taking a step in the right direction, and that's something worth celebrating.

So, here's to Bridgerton, for bringing us scandal, romance, and a touch of the exotic. Here's to the Asian characters who are making history, one Regency-era ball at a time. And here's to the future, where we hope to see even more diversity and inclusion in our screens.

Until next time, dear readers. Keep your tea hot, and your hearts open. Who knows what scandals the next season will bring?