Hold onto your bonnets, Bridgerton fans, because the ton is buzzing with news of a scandalous twist! Season three might be focused on Penelope and Colin's slow-burn romance, but a bombshell dropped at the end has everyone talking: Francesca Bridgerton, the elusive and enigmatic sister, is getting a love story shakeup. And it's one that deviates dramatically from Julia Quinn's beloved books.

A Love Story Reimagined: Francesca Finds Love… with a Woman?

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the fandom, showrunner Jess Brownell has confirmed that Francesca's love interest will not be Michael Stirling, the charming rogue who captures her heart in Quinn's sixth book, "When He Was Wicked." Instead, get ready for Michaela Stirling, a captivating new character who's sure to set hearts aflutter.

The internet, as you might imagine, has thoughts. While many have praised the show's commitment to inclusivity and LGBTQ+ representation, others have expressed disappointment at the alteration of a beloved romance.

"I'm all for diversity, but why change Francesca's story?" one fan lamented on Twitter. "Michael is half the reason I love her book!"

Julia Quinn Breaks Her Silence: A Message of Trust and Creative Freedom

In a heartfelt message posted on Instagram, author Julia Quinn addressed the controversy head-on, acknowledging the fans' surprise and assuring them that the decision to change Francesca's love interest wasn't made lightly.

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