Netflix's hit series Bridgerton, created by Chris Van Dusen and based on Julia Quinn's book series, has captivated audiences with its accurate portrayal of Regency-era London in the early 19th century. While most of the characters are fictional, there are three based on real-life figures. The series is the second project produced by Shonda Rhimes for Netflix, following a lucrative deal in 2017.

Set against London's 1813 social season, Bridgerton focuses on the urgency of eligible women to secure marriage proposals, lest they become spinsters.

The show stays true to the era's behaviors and practices, emphasizing the importance of reputation and virtue for young women. Marriage often meant entering into the unknown realm of sex and reproduction for these women.

Bridgerton also highlights the era's love of gossip through Lady Whistledown, a mysterious narrator and villain whose scandal sheet exposes the secrets of the upper echelon of society.

The show meticulously recreates Regency London, leaving many viewers wondering if it is based on a true story. The answer is no, but some characters are based on historical figures.

One such figure is Queen Charlotte, who was born Sophia Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz in 1744. Historian Mario De Valdes y Cocom claims that Queen Charlotte was descended from a black branch of the Portuguese royal family.

Paintings of the queen were presumably modified to downplay her features. The possibility of having England's first bi-racial queen opened up intriguing storytelling opportunities for the creators.

King George III, played by James Fleet in the series, was a devoted husband and father but suffered from a mysterious illness that affected him physically and mentally. This strained his relationship with his wife and led to his son becoming Prince Regent in 1811.

While the series depicts the queen's obsession with the king's death, she remained loyal to him until her own passing.

Prince Friederich of Prussia, the Queen's nephew in the show, differs somewhat from the real historical figure. The real prince caught the eye of Princess Charlotte of Wales, but he ultimately married Princess Luise of Anhalt-Bernburg in 1817. Bridgerton takes liberties with his story to fit the narrative.

Overall, Bridgerton provides a rich and accurate depiction of Regency-era London, but it should be noted that it is a work of fiction with some historical basis. The show's attention to detail and captivating storytelling continue to attract a wide audience.