When adaptations are created such as Bridgerton, for television, there are changes that must be made to adapt to a visual format. Since the premiere of the first season, the author of the original novels, Julia Quinn, has been very vocal in various interviews about the excellent work that Shonda Rhimes, the producer of the Netflix series, has done with this project.
However, as Quinn has acknowledged, adaptations are rarely faithful to the source material in its entirety. Thus, she has been one of the first to celebrate the more diverse casting, the introduction of characters like Queen Charlotte and the changes in the timeline. But now, Netflix has introduced the biggest change: Michaela Stirling.
Introduced in the last episode of the third season, Michaela would supposedly be the female version of Michael StirlingFrancesca Bridgerton’s love interest according to the book The heart of a Bridgerton.
Who is Michaela Stirling in the Bridgerton series?
In the Netflix series, Michael Stirling does not exist, So instead he introduced himself to Michaela Stirling, interpreted by Masali Baduza, South African actress who has participated in projects such as The King Woman (where she shared credits with Viola Davis), and the BBC series Noughts + Crosses.
So, Michaela Stirling represents one of the biggest changes that Bridgerton has done in the narrative. The character is briefly introduced during the dance organized by the Dankworth-Finches. John introduces Michaela as his cousin and upon seeing her, Francesa is not able to form a word. Something that can be related to the conversation that Violet has with Francesca on her wedding day, when she explains to her that the first time she saw her father, Edmund Bridgerton, she was speechless.
Users on social networks have applauded the character’s gender change, thus bringing LGBTQ+ representation, however, there are those who have not been able to avoid wondering about Francesca and Michaela’s future. This, since the guilt of usurping John’s place not only with the title of Earl of Kilmartin, but also his place in Francesca’s life, is a constant conflict for said character. However, so far, Shonda Rhimes’ production has not disappointed, so only We just have to wait and see how the story will develop. during the following season.
Who is Michael Stirling in the Bridgerton books?
In Julia Quinn’s novel, Michael Stirling is the cousin of John Stirling, Earl of Kilmartin. The opening scene for this novel tells that there are moments that change lives forever. And that’s precisely what happens to Michael. the first time he sees Francesa Bridgerton.
