The upcoming Bridgerton Season 4 has raised some questions among fans, especially regarding its casting choices. The new season features Australian-Korean actress Yerin Ha as Sophie Baek, Benedict Bridgerton’s love interest.
Not only does it mark a notable change from the books, where the character is named Sophie Beckett, but fans are now conflicted over her step-family, being portrayed by Chinese actors. And the peculiar mix of and the mismatching of heritage has left fans feeling inconsistent.
Reddit discussions suggest the decision may have been a petty compromise behind the scenes, with some arguing that the decision for Ha’s casting was likely influenced by the “Hallyu wave.” However, fans assume that the show cast Chinese actors for the step family after realising “there weren’t enough suitable Korean actors.”
Whatever the case may be, the casting in Bridgerton Season 4 has raised questions about authenticity and narrative consistency among the audience.
Who Is Yerin Ha Playing in Bridgerton Season 4?
Yerin Ha is leading the upcoming season of Bridgerton Season 4 as Sophie Baek, a new and mysterious character. However, unlike the debutantes, Sophie is not a privileged socialite.
Instead, she’s endured a tragic past that has forced her into a life of servitude under one of the ton’s most demanding employers. Yet Sophie is resilient, resourceful, and determined to rise above her circumstances.
Her life takes a dramatic turn at Violet Bridgerton’s masquerade ball, where a disguised Sophie catches the eye of Benedict Bridgerton, sparking a complex and passionate connection. The mystery of Sophie’s identity is central to her character and to the unfolding story.
Ha describes Sophie as a “captivating and complicated” woman who uses masks both literally and emotionally. For Ha, exploring Sophie’s layers has been a thrilling challenge.
“What drew me to Sophie was that she immediately has obstacles — something that she constantly has to overcome,” the actress told Tudum while talking about her character in the series.
Yerin Ha on Building Chemistry With Luke Thompson in Bridgerton Season 4
Yerin Ha has opened up about starring in Bridgerton Season 4, alongside Luke Thompson. And the actress has described it as a “playful, freeing, therapeutic” experience.
Ha admitted that though she was initially nervous, she felt reassured and comfortable after meeting her co-star for the first time. She shared, as per Netflix,
I remember Luke stood there with arms wide open, just ready for an embrace — That was the moment I was like, ‘Ah, OK, I don’t need to stress about these little things now. I can just genuinely focus on the on-screen connection with him.’
The actress also reflected on sharing “special and very vulnerable” rehearsals, along with extensive dance training with Thompson, who has hinted at “unexpected twists” and dramatic events in Season 4.
The upcoming fourth season of the romance series, based on Julia Quinn’s novels, is set to release in 2026. Latest updates reveal that Season 4 will be released in a split format, giving fans more time to savor the drama and romance of the ton.
Bridgerton Season 4 is expected to release in 2026.
Bridgerton is available to stream on Netflix.
