Historian debunks Bridgerton's risky carriage scene as pure fantasy
A historian has questioned the realism of a steamy carriage scene in Bridgerton's latest season. Dr. Esmé Louise James, known for her Kinky History series, analysed the moment in a TikTok video. Her critique highlights the dangers of Regency-era travel—and the show's creative liberties with historical accuracy. The scene in question comes from Episode 4 of Bridgerton's third season, released by Netflix in 2026. Dr. James argued that the vigorous movement inside the carriage would likely have caused it to tip over. Regency-era vehicles were notoriously unstable, with high centres of gravity and uneven roads. An overturned carriage at speed could have been fatal for both occupants.
Dr. James, an Australian historian specialising in the history of sex and literature, has built a large following online. Her TikTok account, with 2.4 million followers, features *Kinky History*, a series that inspired a live show and a book. While her work focuses on historical accuracy, she has not linked *Bridgerton*'s portrayal to broader changes in public understanding or university teaching. The show's approach to history has drawn mixed reactions. Nicole Mansfield Wright, a professor of English at the University of Colorado, called it a 'Disney-fied version of history' in a February 2026 article. The series often softens the era's harsh realities but occasionally captures its emotional tone. Costumes in *Bridgerton* mix authentic Regency styles with later influences, though some details—like the absence of undergarments—align with historical records. This explains how Colin could easily slip his hand under Penelope's dress, as women of the time wore little beneath their gowns. Despite debates over accuracy, Netflix has already confirmed a fifth season. The announcement came shortly after the fourth season's premiere in 2026.
Dr. James' analysis adds to ongoing discussions about Bridgerton's blend of fact and fiction. The show's popularity continues to grow, even as historians point out its departures from reality. With another season on the way, the debate over its portrayal of the Regency era is unlikely to fade.
